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Norfolk Terrier Dogs
Breed Rating (1 Reviews)
| Appearance | |
| Friendliness | |
| Hardiness | |
| Garden |
History
The Norfolk Terrier hails from England where they were first bred sometime around the 1800’s. They were used to catch rats, mice and vermin in general. It is believed that they are a cross breed between Border, Cairn and Irish Terriers. The breed has a friendly nature which helped it gain popularity. The Norfolk Terrier has droopy ears whereas the Norwich Terrier has upright ears. They were classed as the same breed up until 1964.
Behaviour
Norfolk Terriers are happy, playful and active little dogs. They love being around people and are always up for some fun and adventure. They love to explore their surroundings and investigate any noise that they hear. In general they are fine with both children and strangers, but will bark when someone is at the door. As with many other breeds, they like to be around people and don’t take well to being left alone for long periods of time. They can be stubborn at times so you may need to be a little firmer with them. They were bred to catch vermin and cannot be trusted around any small, furry pets.
They can be a little harder to train, time and patience will be needed. Recall can be a bit problematic as they have the classic Terrier stubbornness. It is best if they are walked in a safe area or on a lead. They can be very active for such a small dog and will need a fair amount of exercise each day. Digging can be a problem so you may want to invest in a sand-pit. Barking can get excessive so the quiet command is another thing you’ll want to teach them early on. Keep training sessions short but fun. With the right approach they’ll soon pick up new commands and tricks. Earthdog trials and obedience are one way to keep their quick minds active. Regular walks will be needed. They are loyal and kind dogs who won’t fail in making you happy.
Their overcoat is dense and wiry and will be in need of brushing a few times per week. Stripping every 3-4 months or so is also a good idea.
Temperament
Norfolk Terriers have a sociable and stubborn by nature. They are inquisitive and will want to explore everything, indoors and out. They need one long walk a day. More socially accepting than many terrier breeds, they rub along well with cats and other dogs, although they will hunt and kill rodents as if that was what they were put on Earth for. A terrier, after all, is a terrier!
Health Problems
Healthwise, Canine Hip Dysplasia can sometimes occur, but in general Norfolk Terriers are a healthy breed. There are occasional cases of elbow dysplasia, luxating patella (dislocation of the knee cap), allergies, cataracts, heart disease, and intervertebral disc disease (pressure on spinal cord that can cause paralysis).
Breed Details
- Status: Common
- Life Expectancy: 8 - 17 years
- Weight: 5 - 5.4 kg
- Height: 9 - 10"
- Rare: No
- Coat: Medium
- Grooming Requirements: More than once per week
- Town or Country: Either
- Minimum Home Size: Flat
- Minimum Garden Size: Small to Medium Garden
- Breed Type: Pest Control Dog
- Size: Small
- Energy Level: High
- Exercise Required: Up to 1 hour
More to love
Norfolk Terrier Pictures
Latest Reviews For Norfolk Terrier (1 of 1)
Norfolk terrier mix - Sarah,
Our Norfolk terrier mix, Rocky, is fairly typical. He absolutely loves meeting new friendly people, but even more, he loves meeting other dogs. My husband is training him with a dog whistle and treats, but the only time Rocky won’t heed the whistle is when he sees another dog. It’s a work in progress. He will take things (toys, sometimes food) and try and bury them in the garden. Loves playing and looong walks, and chasing things e.g. squirrels and small rodents. Devoted to my husband, although technically he’s my dog. Adores cheese, but very picky on wet dog food. Sleeps on the floor by our bed (we are getting him a dog bed). Very rewarding companion and such fun.