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Norfolk Spaniel Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Norfolk Spaniel so you can get to know the breed more.

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Norfolk Spaniel dog profile picture
OriginUnited Kingdom flagUnited Kingdom
Other Names
What other names does the Norfolk Spaniel have?
Shropshire Spaniel
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Norfolk Spaniel Size and Weight

Size
Is a Norfolk Spaniel small, medium or large dog?

How big do Norfolk Spaniel get?

What is the average size of a Norfolk Spaniel?

Medium
Weight
How much does the Norfolk Spaniel weigh? How much should a Norfolk Spaniel weight? What is the normal weight of a Norfolk Spaniel? How much does a full-grown Norfolk Spaniel weight?
30-50 pounds (13-23 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Norfolk Spaniel?
40 pounds (18 kg)
Height
How tall is the Norfolk Spaniel? Norfolk Spaniel height:
16-19 inches (41-48 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Norfolk Spaniel?
17.5 inches (44.5 cm)

Norfolk Spaniel Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Norfolk Spaniel puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Norfolk Spaniel in the United States? How much money is a Norfolk Spaniel?

Where to buy a Norfolk Spaniel with a good pedigree?

Unavailable
Unfortunately the Norfolk Spaniel is an extinct dog breed, so there isn’t any available price range or breeder in the world for purchasing this breed.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Norfolk Spaniel? How many Norfolk Spaniel are there in the world?
Unavailable: This dog breed, unfortunately, is no longer available, it may even be extinct.

Norfolk Spaniel Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Norfolk Spaniel? Is the Norfolk Spaniel breed dumb or smart?
Smart: The Norfolk Spaniel dogs have great intelligence. They understand and memorize new commands in 15-25 repetitions.

The Norfolk Spaniel is among the smartest dogs in the intelligence ranking.

Trainability
Are Norfolk Spaniel dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Norfolk Spaniel?
A slightly harder to train than average. Norfolk Spaniel dogs aren't famous for their trainability. This breed needs more time and repetition to obey. It's challenging to teach them new commands, but not impossible.
Watchdog Ability
Is Norfolk Spaniel good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Norfolk Spaniel dogs are good watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're consistent in their effort. Good vocal cords and a sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're territorial and protective about their property, so the Norfolk Spaniel dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Norfolk Spaniel dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Norfolk Spaniel dogs are average defenders. Some dogs are very protective of their territory, while others easily let a stranger to trespass. This breed is not sure to defend its territory in every situation.

Norfolk Spaniel Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Norfolk Spaniel have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
AffectionateLoyalHunting
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Norfolk Spaniel sensitivity:
Sensitive: Norfolk Spaniel dogs don't like an irregular daily routine, noisy household, and frequent guest visits.

This breed's emotional level reflects their owner's feelings and they don't handle punishments well.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Norfolk Spaniel a good family dog?
High: Norfolk Spaniel dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Shropshire Spaniel need? Norfolk Spaniel social needs:
Norfolk Spaniel dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Norfolk Spaniel to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Norfolk Spaniel roam?
Norfolk Spaniel dogs are not the biggest explorers. They have low wanderlust potential. Low chance of escaping from home with this breed.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Norfolk Spaniel have high prey drive?
Norfolk Spaniel dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something. Cats or any other small animals are in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Norfolk Spaniel dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Norfolk Spaniel Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The Norfolk Spaniel is a playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do Norfolk Spaniel dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Shropshire Spaniel bark?
Average: The Norfolk Spaniel barks occasionally. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Norfolk Spaniel good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Norfolk Spaniel in an apartment?
Apartment-friendly dog the Norfolk Spaniel breed. It is best if you have a small garden where it can occasionally go out to do its business, but this is not important at all. You can exercise him enough with a walk or two a day, so he's comfortable in an apartment.

Norfolk Spaniel Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Norfolk Spaniel dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Norfolk Spaniel be left alone? How long can you leave a Norfolk Spaniel alone?
Norfolk Spaniel dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.

Norfolk Spaniel Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Norfolk Spaniel has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Norfolk Spaniel? How much bite force does a Norfolk Spaniel have? How strong is a Norfolk Spaniel bite?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Norfolk Spaniel bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Norfolk Spaniel measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Norfolk Spaniel is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Norfolk Spaniel bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Norfolk Spaniel bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Norfolk Spaniel puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Norfolk Spaniel, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Norfolk Spaniel bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Norfolk Spaniel can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Biting Potential
Do Norfolk Spaniel bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Shropshire Spaniel? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Norfolk Spaniel? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Norfolk Spaniel has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Norfolk Spaniel do?
Norfolk Spaniel dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Norfolk Spaniel dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Norfolk Spaniel Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Norfolk Spaniel dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
The Norfolk Spaniel is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Norfolk Spaniel breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Norfolk Spaniel see the vet?
Average
The Norfolk Spaniel should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Norfolk Spaniel dogs live? How old can a Norfolk Spaniel be? What is the age limit of the Norfolk Spaniel? How many years can the oldest Norfolk Spaniel live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Norfolk Spaniel?

How long is the lifespan of a Norfolk Spaniel?

11-13 years
The average lifespan of Norfolk Spaniel: 12 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Prefers average to cold weather conditions
The Norfolk Spaniel can adapt to well to cold weather conditions, some dogs even can be a good mountain dog.

Norfolk Spaniel Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Norfolk Spaniel have? What is the activity level of the Norfolk Spaniel?
Norfolk Spaniel dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn't the perfect choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Norfolk Spaniel need? How much exercise do Norfolk Spaniel dogs require per day?

Do Norfolk Spaniel dogs need a lot of exercises?

Norfolk Spaniel dogs exercise need is minimal. If you live a slow life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Norfolk Spaniel breed need?
Norfolk Spaniel dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.

Norfolk Spaniel Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Norfolk Spaniel need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Norfolk Spaniel breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Norfolk Spaniel? How much food should I feed my Norfolk Spaniel?
1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Norfolk Spaniel risk for obesity:
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Norfolk Spaniel's weight, he can easily gain weight. More than one daily walk should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Norfolk Spaniel weight regularly.

Norfolk Spaniel Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Norfolk Spaniel have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
Feathered
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Norfolk Spaniel coats?
White & Black
Grooming
How to groom the Norfolk Spaniel and how often? How often should I take my Norfolk Spaniel to the groomer?
Easy to groom: The Norfolk Spaniel doesn't require a lot of grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections. Norfolk Spaniel is a good choice if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Recommended for beginners.
Shedding Level
How much do Norfolk Spaniel dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Shropshire Spaniel? Do Norfolk Spaniel dogs shed a lot?
Norfolk Spaniel dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Norfolk Spaniel need a bath? How often should you give a Norfolk Spaniel a bath? Can I bathe my Norfolk Spaniel every day?
6-8 weeks
Rarely. Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

For example, short-haired dog breeds can go a very long time in between baths. These short-haired breeds shed regularly and that shedding works to naturally remove excess dirt and oil. So unless your weenie dog got into the garbage can, you can probably hold off on a bath for a while.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Norfolk Spaniel breed hypoallergenic?
No
Norfolk Spaniel dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Medium

The Norfolk Spaniel has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Norfolk Spaniel drool?
The Norfolk Spaniel is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Norfolk Spaniel could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Norfolk Spaniel.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Norfolk Spaniel Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Norfolk Spaniel dogs get along with other pets? Are Norfolk Spaniel dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Norfolk Spaniel dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Norfolk Spaniel temperament with other people:
Norfolk Spaniel dogs are stranger-friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Are Norfolk Spaniel dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Norfolk Spaniel temperament with children:
Norfolk Spaniel dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Norfolk Spaniel dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Norfolk Spaniel breed live with a cat?
Norfolk Spaniel dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Is Norfolk Spaniel good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Norfolk Spaniel dogs get along with other dogs?
Norfolk Spaniel dogs are very dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Norfolk Spaniel can be a great choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Norfolk Spaniel breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Norfolk Spaniel breed suitable for first-time owners?
No
Norfolk Spaniel dogs are not good for novice owners, due to their stubborn personality.
Office Friendly
Are Norfolk Spaniel dogs good office canines? Do Norfolk Spaniel dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Norfolk Spaniel is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Norfolk Spaniel dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Shropshire Spaniel temperament with senior people? Are Norfolk Spaniel dogs good for elderly owners?
Norfolk Spaniels are usually recommended for elderly people.

Norfolk Spaniel As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Norfolk Spaniel be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Norfolk Spaniel is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Norfolk Spaniel be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Norfolk Spaniel be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Norfolk Spaniel is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Norfolk Spaniel be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Norfolk Spaniel is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Norfolk Spaniel be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Norfolk Spaniel is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Norfolk Spaniel be a boat dog?

Not really

Norfolk Spaniel breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Norfolk Spaniel be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Norfolk Spaniel is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Norfolk Spaniel dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Norfolk Spaniel Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Norfolk Spaniel pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Norfolk Spaniel breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Norfolk Spaniel: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Norfolk Spaniel have in a litter? How many puppies can the Norfolk Spaniel breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Norfolk Spaniel have? How many puppies can a Norfolk Spaniel give birth to?
4-10 puppies

Norfolk Spaniel Recognition

AKC Group
Is Norfolk Spaniel recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Is Norfolk Spaniel recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Not recognized by FCI.

Norfolk Spaniel Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligent Rank: Smart: The Norfolk Spaniel dogs have great intelligence.
  • Apartment Friendly: Apartment-friendly dog the Norfolk Spaniel breed.
  • Grooming: Easy to groom: The Norfolk Spaniel doesn't require a lot of grooming.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Norfolk Spaniel is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Watchdog Ability: Norfolk Spaniel dogs are good watchdogs.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: Norfolk Spaniel dogs are not the biggest explorers.
  • Adaptability: Norfolk Spaniel dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Child Friendly: Norfolk Spaniel dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Norfolk Spaniel dogs are very dog-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Norfolk Spaniels are usually recommended for elderly people.
Cons
  • Trainability: A slightly harder to train than average.
  • Hypoallergenic: Norfolk Spaniel dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Norfolk Spaniel's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: Norfolk Spaniel dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.
  • Office Friendly: Norfolk Spaniel is not the best dog breed for office environment.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Norfolk Spaniel dogs are not good for novice owners, due to their stubborn personality.

Norfolk Spaniel History

Originally the Norfolk Spaniel was bred by an unspecified Duke of Norfolk with the intention of using the dogs as a bird and gun dog, capable of chasing birds out of their nests on the ground and in water. This breed is possibly Europe’s oldest gun dog and is known to be the most similar to other Spaniel breeds. The breed is the ancestor of the small to medium size, longer coated Spaniels. Since the Norfolk Spaniel had been around longer than records were taken about dogs, there is not much specific information to know about them.

The name Spaniel translates to “Spanish”, because of which, many experts originate the breed from Spain, yet this theory is false, for the reason that spaniels were famous long before Spain even formed a kingdom. Since 1066 spaniels had been around France and England.

In the 18th century, spaniels were separated into three categories: toy, water, and land spaniels. They placed the Norfolk Spaniel within the Springer Spaniel into the land spaniel category. By the mid-1800s the breed was considered to be the most common breed in England. In 1855 The Spaniel Club was formed, and they gave a breed standard for the Norfolk Spaniel, recognizing it as an independent type of spaniel. By the end of the 1890s, the breed had become widespread across the English counties. Its history was questionable, so it had inspired several writers to delve deeper into the authenticity of the dog’s origin. One of the writers was Rawdon Briggs Lee who thought that the breed was not a purebred and that it has ever been indigenous to Norfolk. Moreover, his theory got backed up by F. H. F. Mercer, stating that the Norfolk Spaniel’s signature liver and white colors are just a result of breeding different colored spaniels with each other.

In 1902, The Kennel Club of the United Kingdom designated Norfolk Spaniels under English Springer Spaniel, regarding the fact that the two breed’s only difference is that the Norfolk Spaniel is more likely to have a white-liver colored coat.

There is still much debate about whether the Norfolk Spaniel should be separated as a unique breed, even the existence of the breed is questionable. It is concluded that the breed had gone extinct before World War I., albeit some believe that they are exactly the same as English Springer Spaniels.

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