Many people confuse the Norfolk terrier with its cousin, the Norwich terrier. Both breeds originated in Europe during the late 1800s and were developed for rodent hunting prowess. Some of these dogs exhibited pointed ears that stood erect, and others had ears that flipped downward. Until the mid-1960s, these two variations were considered the same breed in show circuits. England’s Kennel Club made the distinction in 1964 when it named the dog with the erect ears a Norwich terrier, and the variation with the flip ears became known as the Norfolk terrier. In 1979, the American Kennel Club made the same distinction for the show ring, and they recognized the Norfolk terrier as its own member of the terrier group.
The Norforlk Terrier is a small, compact dog that was bred for hunting and bolting. It has shorter legs but can move with agility and speed. It has a double coat with a soft undercoat and a longer, wiry outer coat. It needs frequent brushing.
Personality
The Norfolk Terrier is a family-oriented dog breed that is curious, independent and inquisitive. It needs daily exercise in the form of a short or moderate walk or a fun game. It loves to hunt and is strong-willed. It's friendly with children but can be scrappy. It's friendly with other dogs and strangers.
Breed Characteristics
| Family: | Terrier |
| Life Span: | 12-15 Years |
| Nicknames: | No nicknames known |
Norfolk Terrier Build Information
The Norfolk terrier is a compact little dog with short legs. It stands at a height of 9 to 10 inches at the shoulder and weighs an average of 11 to 12 pounds. Its double coat is long and wiry, and longer hair growth forms a ruff. The coat may be red, black and tan, grizzle or wheaten in color. The ears flip downward. The tail is usually docked to half of its natural length and is carried erect. The Norforlk Terrier is a small, compact dog that was bred for hunting and bolting. It has shorter legs but can move with agility and speed. It has a double coat with a soft undercoat and a longer, wiry outer coat. It needs frequent brushing.
| Size: | Small |
Behaviour and Personality
The Norfolk terrier is a charming and playful little companion for families. The breed gets along well with children, cats and other dogs. Be aware, however, that small mammals, such as pocket pets, rabbits and backyard wildlife, are perceived as prey. Although Norfolk terriers can be stubborn and independent at times, they are intelligent and easy to train. The Norfolk terrier is an effective watchdog. It is energetic and requires plenty of daily exercise, interactive play and mental stimulation. The Norfolk Terrier is a family-oriented dog breed that is curious, independent and inquisitive. It needs daily exercise in the form of a short or moderate walk or a fun game. It loves to hunt and is strong-willed. It's friendly with children but can be scrappy. It's friendly with other dogs and strangers.
| Activity Level: | Very Active |
| Affection Level: | Affectionate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Friendly |
Appearance
The Norfolk terrier’s wiry coat requires weekly combing to detangle the hair and prevent matting. The coat needs to be hand-stripped two to three times a year in order to maintain its neat, water-resistant and healthy qualities. Inspect the ears each week, and clean them as necessary to reduce the risk of ear infections. Brushing the teeth daily will maintain oral health and help to preserve overall health.
| Shedding: | None |
| Grooming: | Low Maintenance |
Norfolk Terrier Common Health Conditions
Norfolk terriers live average lifespans of 12 to 15 years. There are only a few known health problems that owners should be aware of, including patellar luxation, mitral valve degeneration, optic nerve hypoplasia and glaucoma.
Norfolk Terrier Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
Loaded with personality, charm and energy, the Norfolk terrier makes a playful companion for any family. The Norfolk terrier originated in England. The Norfolk terrier is a playful companion for families. The Norfolk terrier stands 9 to 10 inches tall and weighs 11 to 12 pounds. Norfolk terriers have high energy levels. Norfolk terriers require moderate grooming. The average lifespan for a Norfolk terrier is 12 to 15 years.
| Training: | Easy |