At a glance
- Heart disease, particularly myxomatous mitral valve disease, affects a significant proportion of Norfolk Terriers by age five and requires regular veterinary monitoring
- Daily dental care and professional cleanings every 6-12 months can prevent the periodontal disease that commonly affects small breeds
- Weight management and careful exercise help prevent orthopedic issues like hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and spinal problems
- Regular health screening and choosing responsible breeders who test for genetic conditions significantly reduces your dog's risk of inherited problems
Understanding heart health in your Norfolk
You might notice your Norfolk tiring more easily during walks or developing a persistent cough. These could be early signs of myxomatous mitral valve disease (MVD), the most significant health concern for this breed. Research shows that a notable proportion of these dogs develop heart murmurs by age five, making regular veterinary check-ups absolutely essential.
During your annual vet visits, your veterinarian will listen carefully to your dog's heart. If they detect a murmur, don't panic. Many dogs live comfortably with heart conditions when properly managed. Your vet may recommend further testing like an echocardiogram or chest X-rays to determine the severity and create a treatment plan.
Prevention starts with maintaining your dog's ideal weight and providing regular, moderate exercise. Excess weight puts additional strain on an already compromised heart. If your dog is diagnosed with MVD, medications like pimobendan, ACE inhibitors, or diuretics can help manage symptoms and slow disease progression. The key is catching it early through those routine examinations.
Preventing dental disease before it starts
Many Norfolk owners worry when they notice their dog's breath becoming increasingly unpleasant or see reluctance to eat hard foods. Small breeds face particular challenges with dental health because their teeth are crowded into smaller mouths, creating perfect conditions for plaque and tartar buildup.
Daily brushing makes the biggest difference in your dog's dental health. Use a pet-specific toothbrush and enzymatic toothpaste designed for dogs. Human toothpaste contains ingredients that are toxic to dogs, so stick with products like Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste. Most dogs can learn to tolerate, and even enjoy, daily brushing when introduced gradually.
Professional dental cleanings under anaesthesia should happen every 6-12 months, depending on your individual dog's needs. These procedures typically cost between $200-$800, but they're far less expensive than treating advanced periodontal disease or systemic infections that can result from neglected dental care. Between cleanings, veterinary-approved dental chews like Greenies or OraVet can help reduce plaque buildup.
Managing orthopedic risks
Have you wondered why your dog occasionally skips on one back leg or seems reluctant to jump onto the sofa? These behaviours often signal orthopedic issues that commonly affect this breed. Hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and intervertebral disc disease can all impact your dog's mobility and comfort.
Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap slips out of its normal position, causing that characteristic skipping gait. Mild cases often respond well to anti-inflammatory medications and joint supplements like Dasuquin or Cosequin. Severe cases may require surgical correction, but maintaining a lean body weight significantly reduces the risk and severity of this condition.
The breed's body structure also predisposes them to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). You can help prevent spinal problems by avoiding activities that put excessive strain on your dog's back. Use ramps instead of allowing jumping from furniture, and be mindful during play sessions. If you notice any signs of back pain, incoordination, or weakness in the hind legs, seek veterinary attention immediately. Early intervention dramatically improves outcomes for spinal issues.
Hip dysplasia, while less common than in larger breeds, can still occur. Choose breeders who screen their breeding stock and provide hip scoring documentation. Keep your dog at an ideal weight throughout their life, as excess pounds put additional stress on joints that may already be compromised.
Watching for eye and skin problems
Sometimes Norfolk owners notice their dog's eyes becoming cloudy or their pet seeming less confident navigating in dim light. Cataracts can develop in middle age, potentially progressing to blindness if left untreated. While there's no proven prevention, regular veterinary eye examinations can catch changes early.
Surgical removal by a veterinary ophthalmologist is possible but costly, typically ranging from $1,500-$3,000 or more per eye. Not all cases are suitable for surgery, so early detection gives you and your vet the best chance to preserve your dog's vision.
Skin allergies manifest as persistent itching, redness, or recurrent infections. Regular grooming helps you spot problems early, and using hypoallergenic shampoos like Douxo S3 Calm can soothe sensitive skin. If your dog develops allergies, work with your veterinarian to identify triggers and develop a management plan that might include antihistamines, steroids, or immunotherapy.
Diet-related health concerns
Recent surveys indicate an increase in pancreatitis cases, likely linked to dietary factors. This painful condition causes vomiting, abdominal discomfort, and can become life-threatening without prompt veterinary care. Prevention focuses on feeding a consistent, high-quality diet and avoiding fatty table scraps that can trigger episodes.
When it comes to feeding your dog, consistency matters more than the specific brand. Sudden diet changes or rich treats can upset the digestive system and potentially trigger pancreatitis in susceptible dogs. If your dog shows signs of abdominal pain, vomiting, or loss of appetite, contact your veterinarian immediately.
While rare, kidney disease has also been reported in some lines. Ensure your dog always has access to fresh water and discuss kidney function screening during routine blood work with your veterinarian. Early detection allows for dietary modifications and medications that can slow disease progression.
Creating your prevention plan
The most effective approach to keeping your Norfolk healthy combines regular veterinary care with proactive home management. Annual wellness examinations are essential for early detection of heart, dental, and other breed-specific issues. These visits typically cost $200-$500 per year but can prevent much more expensive problems down the road.
When choosing a breeder, ask for documentation of health testing. Responsible breeders screen for hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and heart conditions in their breeding stock. This genetic screening significantly reduces your puppy's risk of inherited problems.
Weight management affects nearly every health condition discussed here. Obesity exacerbates joint problems, puts additional strain on the heart, and increases the risk of metabolic disorders. Feed measured meals rather than free-feeding, and limit treats to no more than 10% of your dog's daily calories.
Establish routines early in your dog's life. Daily dental care, regular grooming sessions, and consistent exercise patterns become easier when started young. Most dogs adapt well to handling and care routines when introduced gradually and positively.
Knowing when to seek help
Understanding when symptoms require immediate attention versus routine veterinary care can make a significant difference in outcomes. Coughing, fatigue, or breathing difficulties warrant immediate evaluation, as these often signal heart problems that need prompt treatment.
Dental issues like bad breath, drooling, or reluctance to eat hard foods should be addressed at your next routine appointment, though severe symptoms might require urgent care. Orthopedic problems causing limping, reluctance to move, or obvious pain need veterinary assessment within a day or two.
Any sudden change in behaviour, appetite, or energy level deserves attention. You know your dog best, and if something seems "off," trust your instincts. Early intervention almost always leads to better outcomes and often lower treatment costs than waiting until problems become severe.
Building a strong relationship with a veterinarian familiar with the breed provides the foundation for your dog's lifelong health. Regular preventive care, combined with your careful observation at home, gives your Norfolk the best chance for a long, healthy, and comfortable life.
