Norfolk Terrier

also known as Drop-Eared Norwich Terrier

Pros Summary


The Norfolk Terrier is a small, sturdy breed of dog with a wiry, weather-resistant coat. Originally bred in Norfolk, England for hunting small game and controlling vermin on farms, they are known for their lively and energetic nature and make great companions for active families. They are also recognized by major kennel clubs and have a lifespan of 12-15 years.

Breed Information


Type

Is Norfolk Terrier a purebred?

Purebred

Pronunciation

How do you pronounce the Norfolk Terrier name? How do you say Norfolk Terriers?

NOR-fuhk TAIR-ee-uhr

Purpose

What were Norfolk Terriers originally used for?

ratting, fox bolting

Lifespan

How Long Do Norfolk Terriers Live? What is average life expectancy for a Norfolk Terrier? How long can Norfolk Terriers live?

12-15 years

The average Norfolk Terrier lifespan is somewhere between 12-15 years, provided they aren't beset by any exceptional health issues or injuries.

Norfolk Terrier Height & Weight


How big is a full grown Norfolk Terrier?

What is the average height of a Norfolk Terrier? How big is a Purebred Norfolk Terrier height? Norfolk Terrier dog height:
Height
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 9-10 inches (22.9 - 25.4 cm) 4.5 inches (11.4 cm) 6.5 inches (16.5 cm) 9.0 inches (22.9 cm)
Female 9-10 inches (22.9 - 25.4 cm) 4.5 inches (11.4 cm) 6.5 inches (16.5 cm) 9.0 inches (22.9 cm)
What is the average weight of a Norfolk Terrier? How much should Norfolk Terriers weigh?
Weight
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 11-12 pounds (5 - 5 kg) 4.0 pounds (2 kg) 6.5 pounds (3 kg) 9.0 pounds (4 kg)
Female 11-12 pounds (5 - 5 kg) 4.0 pounds (2 kg) 6.5 pounds (3 kg) 9.0 pounds (4 kg)
Weight Gain Potential

Do Norfolk Terriers get fat easily?

They are known for having a strong tendency to become overweight. It is important to find a balance between providing enough exercise and controlling their food intake. To maintain a healthy weight, it is recommended to increase the frequency and duration of daily walks and to engage in more playtime with the Norfolk Terrier.

Hypoallergenic

Are Norfolk Terriers Hypoallergenic?

Yes

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Norfolk Terriers are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What is a Norfolk Terrier personality? What are Norfolk Terrier dogs best known for?

Companionable
Happy
Selfish
Confidence
Intelligent
Fearless
Lovable
Spirited

Shedding Level

Are Norfolk Terriers heavy shedders? How Much Does a Norfolk Terrier Shed?

Norfolk Terrier will shed a negligible amount of hair. Some owners say that they do not shed, but that is not true. But the amount of shedding can be rather light than other dog breeds. If you do not want to deal with the hairs flying around in your home, then this breed is a perfect choice for you.

Watchdog Ability

What is the watchdog ability of a Norfolk Terrier dog?

The Norfolk Terrier dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, this breed will alert their owner.

Breed History


Origin

Where do Norfolk Terriers come from?

England

Ancestry

What are Norfolk Terriers descended from?

terrier

Date of Birth

When were Norfolk Terriers first bred? How old is the Norfolk Terrier breed?

1800s

Breed Group

What Breed Group is a Norfolk Terrier?

Terrier (AKC:1979 & UKC)

Norfolk Terrier Appearance


Eye Color Possibilites

What color are Norfolk Terrier eyes?

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What color can Norfolk Terrier nose be naturally?

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What color can Norfolk Terrier coat be naturally?

Black
Red
Brown
Fawn

Coat Length

How long is a Norfolk Terriers coat?

Norfolk Terriers are known for their short coat.

Coat Density

How Dense Is The Norfolk Terrier Coat?

Coat Texture

What is the texture of the hair of a Norfolk Terrier?

Wiry

Litter Size

How many puppies can a Norfolk Terrier have in a litter? How many puppies can a Norfolk Terrier have in her first litter?

12-15 puppies per pregnancy

A Norfolk Terrier can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Norfolk Terriers are known for their adaptability and versatility, they are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments. They are a highly adaptable breed, and make great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Norfolk Terrier Health Issues


Health Issues

Do Norfolk Terriers have a lot of health problems?

The Norfolk Terrier is generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns to be aware of when owning a Norfolk Terrier?

Mitral Valve Disease

Minor Concerns

What are the less significant issues to keep in mind when it comes to Norfolk Terriers?

Cataracts

Occasional Tests

What are the occasional tests recommended for Norfolk Terrier breed?

Cardiac
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Norfolk Terrier Needs and Activities


Energy

Do Norfolk Terriers have a lot of energy?

Norfolk Terriers are known for their high energy levels, so if you're looking for a more low-key dog, this breed may not be the best choice.

Social Needs

Do Norfolk Terriers need socialization? How social are Norfolk Terriers?

Norfolk Terriers have average social needs compared to other breeds. They are known to be less active and independent than other breeds, and they are content with spending time alone and with their human family.

Exercise Needed

How much exercise should Norfolk Terriers get?

The Norfolk Terrier dog needs significant physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are also well-suited for those who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy activities such as running, hiking, or other outdoor pursuits.

Sleeping Need

How much sleep should a Norfolk Terrier have? Do Norfolk Terriers sleep a lot?

Norfolk Terriers dogs are tend to sleep less than other breeds, but they still require adequate sleep to maintain good health.

Drooling Tendency

Does a Norfolk Terrier drool a lot?

The Norfolk Terrier is a breed of dog that is characterized by its minimal drooling, making it an ideal choice for people who dislike drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

How much does it bark?

The Norfolk Terrier is a vocal breed, with a tendency to bark and howl frequently. They may not be the best fit for those seeking a quiet companion. Their barks can vary and can indicate different emotions and needs.

Territorial

Do Norfolk Terriers exhibit aggressive behavior to safeguard their home and territory? Do they possess a natural tendency to guard?

Norfolk Terrier dogs are known for being average at defending. They possess the capability to defend their territory or owners, but it is not their primary trait. They are not the best choice for guard dogs

Mouthiness

Are Norfolk Terriers mouthy?

Roaming urge

What is the likelihood of a Norfolk Terrier running away? Do they have a tendency to explore or wander frequently?

Prey Drive

Do Norfolk Terrier dogs have a high prey drive?

Activity Level

What is the energy level of a Norfolk Terrier? How much energy does a Norfolk Terrier have?

Medium

Norfolk Terriers are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How far should a Norfolk Terrier walk each week? How many miles should a Norfolk Terrier walk every week?

4 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Norfolk Terrier, it's at least 4 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

How much a Norfolk Terrier should exercise a day? How much activity does a Norfolk Terrier need?

30 minutes

In general most Norfolk Terriers usually need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

What level of grooming should be provided for a Norfolk Terrier?

The Norfolk Terrier is a breed of dog that requires an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

How often should you brush a Norfolk Terrier?

Weekly

Norfolk Terrier should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What are the most commonly used brushing tools for Norfolk Terriers?

Slicker Brush
Comb
Scissors
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Costs


Cups

How many cups of food does a Norfolk Terrier eat?

1 cups

For an average 11-12 pound (5 - 5 kg) Norfolk Terrier feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

How Much Does a Norfolk Terrier Cost Daily?

$1.40 - $1.40 / day

The average cost of a Norfolk Terrier is somewhere $1.40 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

How Much Does a Norfolk Terrier Cost Per Month?

$35 - $42 / month

The average per month expenses of a Norfolk Terrier is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Norfolk Terrier Characteristic


Intelligence

How intelligent is a Norfolk Terrier?

The Norfolk Terrier have below the average degree of obedience intelligence among other breeds. However, calling them “dumb dogs” is unfair. Where Norfolk Terriers lack in obedience & working intelligence, they make up for it with their keen ability to understand human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How sensitive is a Norfolk Terrier dog?

This dog breed is more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. They need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Are Norfolk Terrier dogs affectionate?

Apartment Friendly

Do Norfolk Terrier do well in apartments? Are Norfolk Terriers good indoor dogs?

The Norfolk Terrier is an apartment-friendly dog breed. They can do perfectly well in apartments providing they are sufficiently exercised and taken out and about as part of their owner's daily lifestyle.

Child Friendly

Are Norfolk Terriers good with kids? Are Norfolk Terriers good around children?

Norfolk Terriers are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.

Senior-friendly

Are Norfolk Terriers good for elderly?

Cat Friendly

Are Norfolk Terriers good with cats? How friendly Norfolk Terriers are toward cats?

Norfolk Terriers are one of the best dogs for cats. They're accept cats readily as part of the family. However, this dog breed should be trained to not chase after the kitty early on

Dog Friendly

Do Norfolk Terrier dogs get along with other dogs? Are Norfolk Terriers OK with other dogs?

Norfolk Terriers are friendly, active and loyal companions. They generally love to be around other dogs, making them a good family pet for some,

Pet friendly

How do Norfolk Terrier dogs interact with other pets? Are they considered pet-friendly?

Stranger Friendly

Are Norfolk Terriers friendly with strangers?

Norfolk Terriers are below average friendly around strangers. Keen of eye and sharp of tongue, most Norfolk Terriers are very quick to announce strangers at the door. Once the visitor comes in, some Norfolk Terriers will be friendly and outgoing. But many others have the standoffish or suspicious towards strangers.

Playfulness

Do Norfolk Terriers like to play? Are Norfolk Terriers playful?

The Norfolk Terrier is a playful dog. So, no matter how busy the day may get, the best thing you can do for your Norfolk Terrier is to make time each day to play. It can be as little as 15-20 minutes, and it will mean the world to them.

Trainability

Are Norfolk Terrier easily trained?

Norfolk Terrier dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.

Pros Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Affectionate
    Norfolk Terrier are known to be affectionate and loyal to their owners.
  • Apartment Friendly
    Norfolk Terrier are well-suited for apartment living.
  • Hypoallergenic
    The hypoallergenic properties of Norfolk Terriers make them a great option for those with allergies.
  • Minimal to no shedding
    The Norfolk Terrier breed is characterized by minimal to no shedding.
  • Good with children
    They get along well with children and make great family pets.
  • Good with other pets
    Norfolk Terrier typically gets along well with other pets.

Cons

  • Tendency to gain weight
    Norfolk Terriers tend to be prone to carrying excess weight.
  • Barking
    This breed of dog tends to be loud.
  • Not suitable for office environment
    Norfolk Terriers may not be able to handle the distractions of an office.
  • Health concerns
    Norfolk Terriers, similar to other breeds, may be at risk for certain health problems, including Mitral Valve Disease and Cataracts.