The Norfolk Terrier is nearly identical to the Norwich Terrier except for the ears. What makes him so endearing is his big dog attitude packed into a small package.
Appearance
Body: Small, compact, and well-boned. Back is level, ribs are well-sprung, shoulders are clean and powerful.
Coat: Outer coat is hard, wiry, straight, and close; Undercoat is soft.
Color: Red, wheaten, black and tan, grizzle, or any combination.
Ears: Small, v-shaped, slightly rounded at the tips, hang down and folded forward close to cheeks.
Eyes: Small, oval-shaped, wide set, dark brown or black with black rims; expressively sharp and intelligent.
Feet: Small and round with firm pads and black nails.
Head: Wide, slightly rounded, well-defined stop, strong, wedge-shaped muzzle.
Neck: Moderately long, strong, and smoothly set into laid back shoulders.
Legs: Forelegs are short, straight, and powerful. Hindquarters are well-muscled with good turn of stifle and well let down hocks.
Size:
Height is 9 – 10 inches
Weight is 11 – 12 pounds
Tail: Medium length, high set, and docked.
Behavior
- Recommended for experienced dog handlers.
The Norfolk Terrier is a devilish little dog with an active, fearless personality. He’s practically identical to the Norwich Terrier in all aspects except he has drop-ears and the Norwich has prick-ears. He has all the instincts of a typical terrier; enjoys being with other dogs of his type and is a true ratter willing to go underground to flush out his prey, or to make the kill, if necessary.
AKC Standard says, “The Norfolk Terrier is essentially a sporting terrier-not a toy. His chief attributes are gameness, hardiness, loyalty to his master, and great charm. He is affectionate and reasonably obedient.”
He’s good with children if raised with them and can be good with cats, but he is a terrier bred to hunt and kill rodents and other small vermin so be careful to monitor the relationship until you’re sure he has accepted the cat as his friend and family.
The Norfolk is a loyal companion and will demand nothing less than that in return. Include him in all of your family activities and he will be delighted, exclude him and he will find ways to let you know of his disapproval.
Early obedience training and socialization are important. Use a positive and rewarding approach with lots of praise, gentle correction, and treats to reward him for a job well done.
Breed Type
AKC Group: Terrier Group
Originally bred to hunt rats and other vermin. The fearless little Norfolk has also been known chase fox.
Exercise: Moderate exercise with a daily walk and time to run and play.
Grooming: Brush one to two times weekly. He only needs an occasional trim.
Life Expectancy: 14 Years
Possible problems:
- Teeth – teeth don’t align properly causing an overbite or under bite.
- Hip Dysplasia – degenerative joint disease.
- Mitral Valve Dysplasia – a leaky valve – can cause regurgitation of blood into the left atrium of the heart (the left atrium receives oxygenated blood from the lungs)
- Luxating Patella – dislocated knee cap.