LIVING WITH NORWICH TERRIERS
By Alison Freehling Charlottesville, VA
T he jaunty little Nor- wich trotting around the Terrier Group ring at Westminster presents a beguiling image of the breed to television view- ers. So too, photos of Norwich puppies and adults online and in dog publications prompt many people looking for a canine companion to “fall in love with” the breed. Before you decide that a Norwich would be your family’s ideal pet, however, pro- spective owners should learn more—from reputable Norwich breeders and from oth- er Norwich owners—about the pros and cons of the breed. My family and I have lived with numerous Norwich during the past 32 years. Based on those experiences, here’s a brief overview of what to expect. Th e AKC breed standard provides a good starting point for pinpointing correct Norwich temperament. Th e original AKC standard (1936) described the breed as “tremendously active,” “not quarrelsome,” “lovable.” Th e current standard describes correct Norwich temperament as “gay, fear- less, loyal and a ff ectionate,” noting also that these “hardy hunt terriers” are “eager to
250 • S HOW S IGHT M AGAZINE , A PRIL 2014
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