I own UK dog breed nobody has heard of — they are perfect family pets

We are a nation of dog lovers. Labradors, Cocker Spaniels, French Bulldogs, Dachshunds and Cockapoos are among the most popular breeds, many of which are considered part of the family in households across the UK.

The UK’s official canine authority, The Kennel Club, recognises around 221 to 224 dog breeds. Many are seen as ideal family pets thanks to their friendly, affectionate and patient nature. However, the Kennel Club also highlights native breeds with low registration numbers — defined as fewer than 450 puppies registered each year. Several British breeds now fall into this category and are considered at risk due to declining demand. My dog, Ginny, is one of these.

She belongs to a lesser-known breed that many people have never heard of, despite it being native to the UK — the Norwich Terrier. Just 140 were born in Britain in 2024, placing them among the rarest dogs in the country and earning them “vulnerable native breed” status from The Kennel Club.

Increasingly, the public favours fashionable dogs seen on social media or in high-profile television shows and films, often at the expense of lesser-known native breeds. Despite being overshadowed by more popular dogs, Norwich Terriers make perfect family pets.

Known for being exceptionally friendly and well-suited to family life — including households with young children — they are small but sturdy dogs, with wiry coats and an unmistakably cute, expressive face.

In terms of temperament, they are extremely social, affectionate and happy-go-lucky. They thrive on human companionship and form deep bonds with their owners.

They can also be surprisingly independent, meaning they are often able to be left alone for short periods without developing separation anxiety — with the right training, of course.

Ginny loves nothing more than snuggling up beside me and is constantly seeking affection. She adores people — sometimes even more than other dogs — and treats every walk as her own personal meet-and-greet, happily charming passing dog walkers into stopping for a fuss.

That’s not to say the breed is without its quirks. She can be feisty and bossy, and at times a little too independent, which can translate into stubbornness when it comes to rules she doesn’t believe should apply to her.

According to the Norwich Terrier Club, the breed is well-suited to modern family life and particularly good with children due to its playful nature.

“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.

Anyone considering welcoming a Norwich Terrier — or another vulnerable breed — should be prepared to do their homework and be patient.

That’s because these dogs are bred responsibly in the UK, with litters few and far between due to their rarity. Ethical breeders of vulnerable native breeds prioritise long-term welfare, focusing on good health, stable temperaments and maintaining genetic diversity.

By contrast, in-demand breeds are often produced in much larger numbers, sometimes by puppy farms or careless breeders, increasing the risk of dogs entering the market with underlying health or behavioural issues.

The Norwich Terrier’s cautious, welfare-first breeding model helps protect the breed, but it also means numbers grow slowly — making it harder for them to keep pace with more common dogs.

Vulnerable native UK dog breeds 

List of vulnerable native dog breeds in UK accoridng to the Kennel Club: