Norfolk Terrier

The Norfolk Terrier is a small terrier breed that originated in England. They are affectionate and lively dogs with a wiry coat that requires minimal grooming.

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Norfolk Terrier Breed overview

Norfolk Terriers are affectionate, high-energy dogs that require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. They are great with kids and can adapt to different environments, but may exhibit dominant behavior towards other dogs. Early socialization and training is important to manage their barking tendencies and to prevent shyness and aggressiveness towards strangers. Norfolk Terriers have a moderate tendency to wander, and may become anxious or destructive if left alone for long periods of time. An intelligent breed, they require regular training and mental stimulation. With a moderate tolerance for heat and cold weather conditions, Norfolk Terriers thrive on human interaction and require companionship to stay happy and healthy.

Height:
9-10 inches
Weight:
11-12 lbs
Life expectancy:
12-15 years

What To Expect When Caring For a Norfolk Terrier

Health

Norfolk Terriers are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. They are prone to some health problems, including hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and eye diseases such as cataracts and glaucoma. Regular veterinary checkups and health screenings can help prevent and treat these issues.

It's also important to feed them a healthy diet and provide them with plenty of exercise to maintain their overall health and wellbeing.

Exercise

Norfolk Terriers require daily exercise and mental stimulation to keep them healthy and happy. They enjoy short walks, playtime in the yard, and interactive games such as fetch or hide and seek.

It's important not to over-exercise them, as they are prone to joint problems. They are adaptable to most living situations, including apartments and small houses, as long as they get plenty of daily exercise.

Grooming

Norfolk Terriers have a wiry, dense coat that requires minimal grooming. They shed very little, and their coat can be hand stripped or clipped a few times a year to maintain its texture and appearance. They also require regular nail trims and dental care to keep them healthy and happy.

Their ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection, and their anal glands may need to be expressed occasionally to prevent discomfort or infection.

Training

Norfolk Terriers are intelligent and trainable dogs, although they can be stubborn at times. Positive reinforcement, consistency, and patience are key when training them.

They respond well to obedience training and agility courses, and they also enjoy learning tricks and games. Early socialization is important to prevent unwanted behaviors such as excessive barking or aggression.

Nutrition

Norfolk Terriers require a high-quality, protein-rich diet that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. It's important not to overfeed them, as they are prone to obesity, which can exacerbate joint problems and other health issues.

It's also important to provide them with fresh water at all times and to avoid feeding them table scraps or other human food, which can cause digestive problems and obesity.

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Norfolk Terrier Traits & Characteristics

Norfolk Terriers are small, compact dogs that weigh between 11 and 12 pounds. They have a short, dense coat that comes in shades of wheaten, red, black and tan, and grizzle. Their ears are folded and hang close to the head, and their tails are docked and carried erect.

In terms of temperament, Norfolk Terriers are bold, curious, and affectionate. They are intelligent and trainable, although they can be stubborn at times. They are good with children and other pets when socialized properly.

Affection

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

independent lovey-dovey

Norfolk Terriers are highly affectionate dogs that love being around their owners as much as possible. They crave attention and thrive on human interaction.

Children

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

not suitable for kids great with kids

Norfolk Terriers are great with kids due to their playful and energetic nature. They have a high tolerance for play and their small size makes them a suitable companion for children.

Dogs

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

not dog friendly very dog friendly

Norfolk Terriers can be friendly towards other dogs, but they may exhibit dominant behavior towards dogs they don't know. Early socialization is important to promote positive behavior towards other dogs.

Strangers

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

Norfolk Terriers are generally suspicious of strangers and may exhibit protective behavior. Early socialization is important to prevent shyness and aggressiveness towards unfamiliar people.

Playfulness

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

laid-back very playful

Norfolk Terriers are highly playful dogs that love to run, play games and engage in physical activities. Owners of Norfolk Terriers should be ready to accommodate their high energy levels.

Alertness

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

less alert very alert

Norfolk Terriers have a high level of alertness and are always watchful of their surroundings. This quality makes them good candidates for watchdogs or as alert dogs.

Adaptability

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

less adaptable very adaptable

Norfolk Terriers can adapt to different environments, but may become stressed or anxious if they are kept in unfamiliar surroundings or in isolation for too long.

Shedding

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

no shedding hair everywhere

Norfolk Terriers are minimal shedders due to their short, wiry coat that doesn't require much grooming. However, regular brushing is needed to keep their coat healthy and mat-free.

Grooming

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

low maintenance high maintenance

Norfolk Terriers have a wiry coat that requires regular trimming and stripping to maintain its shape. Weekly brushing is needed to prevent mats and tangles.

Drooling

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

dry mouthed heavy drooler

Norfolk Terriers are dry-mouthed dogs and don't drool much, making them an ideal companion for those who don't want a slobbery pet.

Size

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

very small very large

Norfolk Terriers are a small breed, weighing up to 12 pounds and standing 9 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder.

Energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

couch potato high energy

Norfolk Terriers are highly energetic and require plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy running, playing games and engaging in physical activities with their owners.

Exercise

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

low exercise needs high exercise needs

Norfolk Terriers are highly active dogs that require plenty of exercise to maintain their health and well-being. They love playing and running and require daily exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

not suitable for working great for working

Norfolk Terriers have been used in the past as working dogs to hunt small rodents. They can also perform well in obedience, agility, and other dog sports.

Hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

Norfolk Terriers have a high prey drive and were originally bred to hunt small rodents. They possess excellent scenting and tracking skills and can excel in hunting events.

Vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

low-drive high vigor

Norfolk Terriers are highly energetic and possess great physical stamina and endurance. They require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to maintain their vigor and well-being.

Health

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

less healthy very healthy

Norfolk Terriers are generally a healthy breed, but they may be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, skin allergies, and eye problems. Owners should maintain regular veterinary check-ups to keep their dog healthy.

Obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

Norfolk Terriers have a tendency to gain weight if their diet is not monitored properly. Owners should provide a balanced diet and regular exercise to avoid obesity-related health problems.

Cold

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

Norfolk Terriers have a moderate tolerance for cold weather conditions. They may require extra warmth and protection if they are kept outside for extended periods of time in cold weather.

Heat

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

Norfolk Terriers have a moderate tolerance for hot weather conditions. Owners should provide plenty of shade and water, and avoid exercising their dog during the hottest times of the day.

Apartment

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

Norfolk Terriers can live in an apartment or small living space as long as they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation. Regular walks, playtime and interactive toys are recommended for apartment life.

Wanderlust

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

less likely to wander very likely to wander

Norfolk Terriers have a moderate tendency to wander and roam if they are not supervised. It is important to keep them on-leash or in a securely-fenced yard to prevent them from wandering off.

Sensitivity

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

less sensitive very sensitive

Norfolk Terriers are not overly sensitive to criticism, but they may become anxious or stressed in certain situations. Positive reinforcement is the best approach when it comes to training and handling this breed.

Separation

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

Norfolk Terriers may become anxious or destructive if left alone for long periods of time. They thrive on human interaction and require companionship to stay happy and healthy.

Barking

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

quiet very vocal

Norfolk Terriers are vocal dogs and have a tendency to bark if they see or hear something unusual. Proper training and socialization is required to manage their barking tendencies.

Mental

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

Norfolk Terriers are intelligent dogs that require mental stimulation to stay engaged and happy. Puzzle toys, agility training, and obedience training are all great ways to keep them mentally stimulated.

Novice_owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Norfolk Terriers are suitable for novice owners who have experience in training dogs. Owners must be consistent in their training approach, provide proper exercise, and be willing to spend time with their dog.

Trainability

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

difficult to train easy to train

Norfolk Terriers are intelligent and willing to learn new things, but they can be stubborn and independent-minded at times. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to successful training.

Affection

independent lovey-dovey

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

Norfolk Terriers are highly affectionate dogs that love being around their owners as much as possible. They crave attention and thrive on human interaction.

Children

not suitable for kids great with kids

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

Norfolk Terriers are great with kids due to their playful and energetic nature. They have a high tolerance for play and their small size makes them a suitable companion for children.

Dogs

not dog friendly very dog friendly

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

Norfolk Terriers can be friendly towards other dogs, but they may exhibit dominant behavior towards dogs they don't know. Early socialization is important to promote positive behavior towards other dogs.

Strangers

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

Norfolk Terriers are generally suspicious of strangers and may exhibit protective behavior. Early socialization is important to prevent shyness and aggressiveness towards unfamiliar people.

Playfulness

laid-back very playful

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

Norfolk Terriers are highly playful dogs that love to run, play games and engage in physical activities. Owners of Norfolk Terriers should be ready to accommodate their high energy levels.

Alertness

less alert very alert

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

Norfolk Terriers have a high level of alertness and are always watchful of their surroundings. This quality makes them good candidates for watchdogs or as alert dogs.

Adaptability

less adaptable very adaptable

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

Norfolk Terriers can adapt to different environments, but may become stressed or anxious if they are kept in unfamiliar surroundings or in isolation for too long.

Shedding

no shedding hair everywhere

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

Norfolk Terriers are minimal shedders due to their short, wiry coat that doesn't require much grooming. However, regular brushing is needed to keep their coat healthy and mat-free.

Grooming

low maintenance high maintenance

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

Norfolk Terriers have a wiry coat that requires regular trimming and stripping to maintain its shape. Weekly brushing is needed to prevent mats and tangles.

Drooling

dry mouthed heavy drooler

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

Norfolk Terriers are dry-mouthed dogs and don't drool much, making them an ideal companion for those who don't want a slobbery pet.

Size

very small very large

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

Norfolk Terriers are a small breed, weighing up to 12 pounds and standing 9 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder.

Energy

couch potato high energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

Norfolk Terriers are highly energetic and require plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy running, playing games and engaging in physical activities with their owners.

Exercise

low exercise needs high exercise needs

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Norfolk Terriers are highly active dogs that require plenty of exercise to maintain their health and well-being. They love playing and running and require daily exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Working

not suitable for working great for working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

Norfolk Terriers have been used in the past as working dogs to hunt small rodents. They can also perform well in obedience, agility, and other dog sports.

Hunting

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

Norfolk Terriers have a high prey drive and were originally bred to hunt small rodents. They possess excellent scenting and tracking skills and can excel in hunting events.

Vigor

low-drive high vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

Norfolk Terriers are highly energetic and possess great physical stamina and endurance. They require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to maintain their vigor and well-being.

Health

less healthy very healthy

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

Norfolk Terriers are generally a healthy breed, but they may be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, skin allergies, and eye problems. Owners should maintain regular veterinary check-ups to keep their dog healthy.

Obesity

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

Norfolk Terriers have a tendency to gain weight if their diet is not monitored properly. Owners should provide a balanced diet and regular exercise to avoid obesity-related health problems.

Cold

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

Norfolk Terriers have a moderate tolerance for cold weather conditions. They may require extra warmth and protection if they are kept outside for extended periods of time in cold weather.

Heat

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

Norfolk Terriers have a moderate tolerance for hot weather conditions. Owners should provide plenty of shade and water, and avoid exercising their dog during the hottest times of the day.

Apartment

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

Norfolk Terriers can live in an apartment or small living space as long as they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation. Regular walks, playtime and interactive toys are recommended for apartment life.

Wanderlust

less likely to wander very likely to wander

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

Norfolk Terriers have a moderate tendency to wander and roam if they are not supervised. It is important to keep them on-leash or in a securely-fenced yard to prevent them from wandering off.

Sensitivity

less sensitive very sensitive

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

Norfolk Terriers are not overly sensitive to criticism, but they may become anxious or stressed in certain situations. Positive reinforcement is the best approach when it comes to training and handling this breed.

Separation

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

Norfolk Terriers may become anxious or destructive if left alone for long periods of time. They thrive on human interaction and require companionship to stay happy and healthy.

Barking

quiet very vocal

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

Norfolk Terriers are vocal dogs and have a tendency to bark if they see or hear something unusual. Proper training and socialization is required to manage their barking tendencies.

Mental

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

Norfolk Terriers are intelligent dogs that require mental stimulation to stay engaged and happy. Puzzle toys, agility training, and obedience training are all great ways to keep them mentally stimulated.

Novice_owners

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

Norfolk Terriers are suitable for novice owners who have experience in training dogs. Owners must be consistent in their training approach, provide proper exercise, and be willing to spend time with their dog.

Trainability

difficult to train easy to train

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

Norfolk Terriers are intelligent and willing to learn new things, but they can be stubborn and independent-minded at times. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to successful training.

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History of the Norfolk Terrier

The Norfolk Terrier is a very old breed that originated in England. They were originally bred to hunt vermin on farms, and they were also used to control foxes and other small animals. Over time, they became popular as companion pets, and they were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1979.

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Norfolk Terrier Puppies

Norfolk Terrier puppies are small and adorable with fluffy fur and floppy ears. They need plenty of socialization and training from a young age to prevent them from developing unwanted behaviors such as excessive barking or aggression.

They are generally easy to train, although housebreaking can be a challenge. They require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them from getting into trouble.