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Terrier group · England

Norfolk Terrier

Also called Drop-Eared Norwich Terrier.

Small dog, moderate energy, trains well with consistency.

  • Fearless
  • Loyal
  • Alert
  • Spirited
  • Affectionate
AI-generated illustration of an adult Norfolk Terrier
AI-generated illustration
Size
Small
Weight
5 to 5 kg11 to 12 lb
Lives
12 to 16 years
Energy
Moderate
Trains
Moderate
Barks
Moderate

Training

Training a Norfolk Terrier

Terrier breeds. Impulse control and a rock-solid leave it. Short, high-value sessions; they bore fast.

  1. Positive Methods Work Best

    Start here

    Norfolks are sensitive and respond poorly to harsh corrections. Keep training positive and encouraging.

  2. Consistent Boundaries

    Despite their small size, they need clear rules. Don't let cute factor override training.

  3. Recall Challenges

    Strong prey drive means off-lead reliability is difficult. Train in secure areas.

The app turns this into five to fifteen minutes a day.

Add your Norfolk Terrier and it builds the plan around their age, where they came from and what they already know, on video with Atlas and Shango.

Free to start. iPhone. No card needed.

At home

Living with one

Bred to go to ground after vermin. Fearless, quick, and not built to back down.

Gets on with

  • ChildrenHigh
  • Other dogsHigh
  • StrangersHigh
  • CatsLow

Breed averages. Early socialisation and the individual dog matter more.

Exercise
45-60 minutes daily. Moderate walks and play. More adaptable than many terriers.
Grooming
Hand-stripping twice yearly. Regular brushing to maintain coat condition.
Drool
Low
Coat
Wiry, Straight, Close-lyingRed, Wheaten, Black and Tan, Grizzle
In a flat
Can work, with enough exercise outside it.

Health

Things to ask a breeder or vet about

  • Mitral Valve Disease

    Moderate

    Heart condition that develops with age

  • Luxating Patella

    Moderate

    Kneecap dislocation common in small breeds

  • Hip Dysplasia

    Moderate

    Joint issues, screen breeding dogs

Where they come from

History

Developed in East Anglia, England in the late 1800s as ratters. Were grouped with Norwich Terriers until 1964 when they were recognised as separate breeds based on ear carriage. Norfolks have drop ears, Norwich have prick ears.

  • Cracknor Cause Celebre · Won Best in Show at Crufts in 2005, bringing attention to the breed

Similar breeds

All breeds

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