Norfolk Breed Guide
Formal breed name: Norfolk Terrier
Small terriers with dropped ears, Norfolk Terriers are fearless, affectionate dogs whose compact size and bold personalities suit those wanting portable courage.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Small
Weight
4-8 kg
Lifespan
12-16 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
Size
Small
Weight
4-8 kg
Lifespan
12-16 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
About Norfolks
The Norfolk Terrier originated in England during the 19th century, initially developed alongside the Norwich Terrier as ratters and companions. These breeds were separated in 1964, with the Norfolk Terrier being distinguished by its drop ears versus the Norwich Terrier's erect ears.
Norfolk Terriers are small dogs with wiry, weather-resistant coats in red, wheaten, black and tan, or grizzle colours. They're known for their compact build, alert expressions, and confident, fearless personalities.
These dogs are intelligent, spirited, and make excellent family pets for those who appreciate terrier character. They're generally good with children and are known for their loyal, affectionate nature. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation but are adaptable to various living situations. Their coats need regular grooming to maintain their texture. While generally healthy, potential concerns include hip dysplasia, luxating patella, and certain eye conditions. Early socialisation helps ensure they're well-adjusted around other pets and strangers.
Complete Care Guide for Norfolks
Expert advice on keeping your Norfolk healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Establishing proper nutrition forms the foundation of health for Norfolk Terriers. These energetic small dogs require carefully balanced meals that support their active lifestyle while preventing unwanted weight gain. A well-planned diet should include high-quality protein sources, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals tailored to their life stage.
Portion control plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal health for Norfolk Terriers. Their small size combined with high energy levels necessitates precise meal measurements, typically divided into two daily servings. Regular monitoring and adjustments ensure their nutritional intake matches their activity level and metabolism, particularly as they age.
Special attention should be directed towards dental health through dietary choices. Incorporating appropriate dental-friendly kibble or veterinary-approved dental chews helps combat this breed's predisposition to dental issues. Additionally, including omega-3 fatty acids in their diet supports coat quality, skin health, and joint function - essential factors for maintaining their active lifestyle and overall wellbeing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Norfolks from our community of pet parents
Norfolk Terriers are known for their friendly, spirited, and hardy nature. They are typically good-tempered, sociable dogs who enjoy the company of humans and other pets. They are confident, courageous and known for their intelligence, making them relatively easy to train. However, they also have a strong independent streak and can be quite stubborn at times.