Norfolk Terrier: temperament, size, care and health

About the Norfolk Terrier

The Norfolk Terrier is a diminutive, drop-eared terrier that stands 9 to 10 inches tall. It has a rugged, low-slung body, a foxy face, and a wiry coat in red, wheaten, black and tan, or grizzle. Its ears fold forward at the tip, which gives it a gentle, appealing expression compared with the prick ears of its Norwich cousin.

The breed was developed to rid stables and farms of vermin and to run with hounds, so it has more stamina and grit than its size would suggest. In modern homes it is mostly a companion, valued for its portability and friendly personality.

Temperament and family life

Norfolk Terriers are widely described as among the most agreeable of terriers. They are affectionate, willing to be involved in every part of home life, and usually good with children who are gentle. Their sturdy build makes them better able to tolerate children than more delicate toy breeds, but they still need to be treated with respect.

Strangers are usually welcomed after a short bark. The breed generally gets along with other dogs and sometimes with household cats, though small animals outdoors are another matter, and a strong urge to dig is typical. Norfolks hate to be left alone for long and may howl or dig if neglected.

Exercise and training

A Norfolk wants a few walks a day and a chance to run and sniff, but it adapts well to an owner's schedule. It will happily follow a hiker or sit on a sofa. Games and short training sessions at home fill the gaps.

The breed learns quickly, especially for food, but can be independent and distracted by scents. Positive, consistent training works best. Early socialization with people and dogs makes a confident adult. A fenced yard is advisable because a Norfolk that sees a squirrel may ignore every command.

Grooming and shedding

The coat is low-shedding when properly maintained. Weekly brushing is advised, and hand-stripping a few times a year removes dead hair and keeps the correct texture. Pet trims usually involve clipping, which softens the coat and fades the color.

Face and feet should be tidied, nails trimmed, and ears checked for dirt, particularly because drop ears hold moisture. Bathe only when needed.

Health

Norfolk Terriers are generally healthy, and many live well into their teens. Mitral valve heart disease can appear in older dogs, and kneecap problems, epilepsy, and hip dysplasia are reported. Small-breed dental disease is common, so tooth care matters. Some lines have had other inherited problems, and breeders are encouraged to test hearts, knees, and hips and to avoid dogs with known disorders.

These notes are general information, and a veterinarian can advise on the health of a specific Norfolk Terrier.

History

The Norfolk Terrier is generally traced to East Anglia, England, where small red terriers were used as ratters and hunting companions in the late nineteenth century. For many years the dogs with drop ears and those with erect ears were registered as a single breed under the name Norwich. The Kennel Club in Britain split them in 1964, and the American Kennel Club followed in 1979, with the drop-eared type named for the county of Norfolk.

Is the Norfolk Terrier right for you?

A Norfolk suits people who want a small, rugged, friendly dog that is happy in a city flat or a country house. It is especially good for owners who like to travel with their pet. It is less well suited to those who cannot stand digging or occasional barking, or who want a dog that stays out of the rubbish.

The Norwich Terrier is its prick-eared twin, and the Border Terrier is a bit taller and more rugged. The Cairn Terrier has a shaggier look and a similar temperament.