Description: Norfolk Terrier
The Norfolk Terrier is one of the smallest working terriers, known for its affectionate personality and spirited nature. Originally bred in East Anglia, England, these dogs were used for hunting vermin and small rodents, making them both fearless and energetic. Norfolk Terriers are noted for their wiry coats, alert expressions, and unique drop ears which distinguish them from their close relatives, the Norwich Terriers. Despite their compact size, they possess a lively, adventurous attitude and bond closely with their families. Their friendly temperament makes them excellent companions for children and households with other pets. Norfolk Terriers adapt well to urban or country living provided they receive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Loyal, loving, and generally easy to care for, the Norfolk Terrier can be a delightful choice for both experienced and first-time dog owners.
Norfolk Terrier ratings
Properties
The Norfolk Terrier is a small, energetic breed originating from the United Kingdom, known for its friendly disposition, intelligence, and adaptability. Initially bred as a working terrier to control vermin and hunt small game, this breed is one of the smallest in the terrier group, typically weighing between 11-12 pounds (5-5.4 kg) and standing about 9-10 inches (23-25 cm) at the shoulder. Despite their size, Norfolks are robust, spirited, and display a remarkable amount of confidence and tenacity.
One of the distinguishing physical characteristics of the Norfolk Terrier is its drop ears, a feature that sets it apart from the Norwich Terrier, which is a closely related breed with erect ears. The Norfolk’s coat is harsh, wiry, and of medium length, providing protection while working outdoors. The coat comes in a variety of shades including red, wheaten, black and tan, or grizzle. Regular grooming—including hand-stripping to maintain the coat's harsh texture—is necessary to keep the Norfolk looking its best.
Norfolk Terriers are generally known for their affectionate, outgoing temperament. They tend to bond closely with their families and are known for being good with children if properly socialized. Their natural sociability also extends to other dogs, making them a fitting choice for multi-pet households, although their strong prey drive means that caution should be exercised around small animals like rodents and rabbits.
The breed is intelligent and quick to learn, but their independent streak can make training a challenge at times. Consistency, positive reinforcement, and patience are necessary when training a Norfolk Terrier. They are highly alert, making them excellent watchdogs, but their small size and friendly demeanor mean they are ill-suited to guarding roles.
Norfolk Terriers require a moderate amount of exercise. Daily walks and playtime are essential to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. Without sufficient activity, they may become bored and exhibit unwanted behaviors such as digging or barking. This breed adapts well to both urban and rural environments, provided their exercise needs are met.
Overall, Norfolk Terriers make wonderful companions for active individuals or families who appreciate the breed’s lively character, manageable grooming requirements, and engaging personality.
Appearance
The Norfolk Terrier is a small, sturdy, and compact breed, known for its endearing expression and bold personality that is evident even in its physical features. This terrier stands about 9 to 10 inches (23–25 cm) at the shoulder and typically weighs between 11 to 12 pounds (5–5.5 kg). Despite its diminutive size, the Norfolk is surprisingly substantial for its height, with a strong bone structure and a robust, athletic build.
The head of the Norfolk Terrier is one of its defining features, giving the breed a distinct and charming look. The skull is slightly rounded and broad, tapering to a wedge-shaped, strong muzzle. One of the breed’s most recognizable characteristics is its small, V-shaped, drop ears, which are neatly folded and hang close to the cheeks, framing the face to give an alert but friendly expression. These ears distinguish the Norfolk from its close relative, the Norwich Terrier, which has upright, prick ears.
The Norfolk Terrier’s eyes are oval in shape, dark brown or black in color, and convey an intelligent, lively, and inquisitive expression. The eyes are surrounded by dark rims, enhancing the keen look that is typical of the breed. The nose is black and prominent, while the teeth are strong and meet in a scissors bite.
The body is compact and well-balanced, with a level topline and a deep chest that reaches to the elbows. The shoulders are well laid back, and the short, straight legs contribute to the breed’s agile movement and working capabilities. The tail, once commonly docked, is now often left natural and carried gaily but not over the back.
The Norfolk Terrier’s coat is wiry, harsh, and straight, providing both protection and a classic terrier appearance. The undercoat is soft and dense, helping the dog brave thickets and rough terrain. The coat is typically about 1.5 to 2 inches in length. The breed’s coat colors include all shades of red, wheaten, black and tan, or grizzle, often with dark pigmentation on the muzzle and ears. Overall, the Norfolk Terrier’s appearance is that of a fearless, jaunty, and companionable little dog with an unmistakable terrier attitude.
History
The Norfolk Terrier is one of the smallest working terrier breeds, but its roots are steeped in a long and practical history. Originating in East Anglia, United Kingdom, particularly around the county of Norfolk, these little dogs were initially bred during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Farmers and horsemen alike needed a versatile and hardy dog that could help control vermin populations—chiefly rats and foxes—that threatened their barns and stables. The breed evolved from a lineage of small Irish and British terriers, notably sharing ancestry with what is now the Norwich Terrier.
The original puppies from these crosses were called Cantab Terriers, a name referencing their popularity among Cambridge University students. These students would keep the dogs in their dormitories as both pets and effective ratters. Over time, the Cantab Terriers made their way into foxhunts and farmyards across East Anglia, prized for their fearlessness and adaptability. By the early 20th century, these terriers became known as Norwich Terriers, but two distinct ear types emerged: the prick-eared and drop-eared varieties.
To address the differences, the Kennel Club in England recognized only the prick-eared Norwich Terrier in 1932. The drop-eared variety did not have an official distinction until 1964, when it gained separate recognition as the Norfolk Terrier, named after the county where it had flourished. The American Kennel Club followed suit and recognized the Norfolk Terrier as a separate breed in 1979.
Throughout history, the Norfolk Terrier’s courage and affectionate temperament have made it a favorite among both working environments and family homes. Though bred for work, they transitioned smoothly into companionship roles after World War II, when agricultural changes reduced the need for working terriers on farms. Today, although less commonly used for their original purpose, Norfolk Terriers are beloved for their intelligence, loyalty, and ability to adapt to modern domestic life.
The breed remains a testament to British working dog heritage, perfectly embodying the balance between indomitable spirit and gentle nature. Their role in canine history underscores versatile breeding and the significance of terriers throughout rural England's agricultural evolution.