UNCERTAIN FUTURE: The Norwich Terrier is being overlooked in favour of trendier breeds (Image: Getty)
Britain remains a nation famously devoted to its canine companions, with Labradors and Cockerpoos typically topping the popularity charts. However, there are native breeds that are facing an uncertain future.
The Royal Kennel Club currently recognises between 221 and 224 distinct dog breeds. While many are celebrated as excellent family companions owing to their gentle, loving and tolerant temperaments, the organisation also draws attention to ‘vulnerable’ native breeds, of British and Irish origin, facing worrying declines – those with fewer than 300 puppies registered annually.
Sophie Law is the owner of Ginny, a Norwich Terrier who represents one of these increasingly rare ‘vulnerable’ British breeds. “Ginny is part of a little-known breed that most people don’t even recognise, even though they have such a rich British heritage,” explains Sophie.
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In 2024, only 140 of these puppies were born nationwide, making them among the rarest dogs in the nation. Despite being overlooked in favour of trendier breeds seen on social media, Law insists they are still outstanding family pets, reports the Express.
These compact dogs are known for their cheerful nature and their ability to thrive on plenty of human interaction. Sophie says: “Ginny absolutely adores people, and she honestly treats every single walk like it’s her own personal social event.”
While they are incredibly affectionate, they also possess a sturdy self-reliance that allows them to cope well during brief spells alone. Sophie points out: “She’s a real cuddle-bug who constantly craves attention, but she’s also got enough independence to settle down quietly when I’m busy.”
Like many terriers, the breed is known for having a mind of its own and a somewhat domineering personality. Sophie says: “She can be a bit of a handful at times, especially when she decides that certain boundaries or rules simply don’t apply to her.”
The Norwich Terrier Club highlights their versatility, noting they are just as happy on a hike as they are in a suburban garden. “They are ready for a hike over the moors (when adult) or are content with a garden to run and play in. A single dog will be happy to muck in with the family’s activities but will be equally happy with another canine playmate,” the website states.
Choosing welfare over trends
Law explains that their rarity is actually a sign of the high standards held by the UK’s dedicated breeding community. Finding one of these puppies requires patience because ethical breeders prioritise health and genetic diversity over making a quick profit. Sophie says: “Responsible breeders really focus on long-term welfare and steady temperaments, which is so different from the way some trendy breeds are mass-produced.”
While this careful approach leads to slower population growth, it ensures that the dogs are healthy and well-adjusted for their new homes. Law believes that safeguarding these vulnerable native breeds is essential to ensure they do not disappear from British life forever.
Vulnerable native breeds
List of vulnerable native dog breeds in the UK according to the Royal Kennel Club:
Bearded CollieBloodhoundBull Terrier (Miniature)Clumber SpanielCollie (Smooth)Dandie Dinmont TerrierDeerhoundEnglish SetterEnglish Toy Terrier (Black & Tan)Field SpanielFoxhoundFox Terrier (Smooth)Glen of Imaal TerrierGordon SetterGreyhoundHarrierIrish Red & White SetterIrish TerrierIrish Water SpanielIrish WolfhoundKerry Blue TerrierKing Charles SpanielLakeland TerrierLancashire HeelerManchester TerrierMastiffNorwich TerrierOtterhoundCurly-Coated RetrieverSealyham TerrierSkye TerrierSoft Coated Wheaten TerrierSussex SpanielWelsh Springer SpanielCardigan Welsh CorgiWelsh Terrier
