• Hungarian Language
  • English Language

Norfolk Terrier Information & Dog Breed Facts

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

Group Hunting Dogs
Popularity Rank128
Reviews0
User Ratings
Compare the Norfolk Terrier With Other Dogs
Select at least one dog breed to make the comparsion.
 
 
Norfolk Terrier dog profile picture
OriginUnited Kingdom flagUnited Kingdom
Other Names
What other names does the Norfolk Terrier have?
Drop-Eared Norwich Terrier
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Norfolk Terrier Size and Weight

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

How big do Norfolk Terrier get?

What is the average size of a Norfolk Terrier?

Small
Weight
How much does the Norfolk Terrier weigh? How much should a Norfolk Terrier weight? What is the normal weight of a Norfolk Terrier? How much does a full-grown Norfolk Terrier weight?
10-12 pounds (4½-5½ kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Norfolk Terrier?
11 pounds (5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Norfolk Terrier? Norfolk Terrier height:
10 inches (25 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Norfolk Terrier?
10 inches (25 cm)

Norfolk Terrier Price and Availability

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

Where to buy a Norfolk Terrier with a good pedigree?

$2000-$2500
If you choose to purchase the Norfolk Terrier, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Norfolk Terrier for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Norfolk Terrier gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Norfolk Terrier? How many Norfolk Terrier are there in the world?
Frequent: The Norfolk Terrier is easier than average to get. Maybe there is some risk of overbreeding, as it is a popular breed.

Due to its popularity, inbreeding may occur. A new study shows that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful and seek the help of an experienced person or a professional, in making your decision.

Norfolk Terrier Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Norfolk Terrier? Is the Norfolk Terrier breed dumb or smart?
Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one. Keep in mind that if you want to teach them any tricks, they understand and memorize new commands in 40-80 repetitions. Norfolk Terrier obey the first command 30% of the time or better. So if you want to have a smart dog, you might have to reconsider your choice with this breed.

The Norfolk Terrier ranks below average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Trainability
Are Norfolk Terrier dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Norfolk Terrier?
Norfolk Terrier dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Ability
Is Norfolk Terrier good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Norfolk Terrier dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Norfolk Terrier dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Norfolk Terrier 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 Terrier Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Norfolk Terrier have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
HappyIntelligentSelfishFearlessCompanionableSpiritedConfidenceLovable
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Norfolk Terrier sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. Norfolk Terrier dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Norfolk Terrier a good family dog?
Average to High: Norfolk Terrier dogs are highly affectionate dogs. They like being involved in the family's life. This breed isn't considered an aloof dog.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Drop-Eared Norwich Terrier need? Norfolk Terrier social needs:
Norfolk Terrier dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don't mind being left alone for a few hours either.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Norfolk Terrier to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Norfolk Terrier roam?
The wanderlust potential of the Norfolk Terrier is strong enough to escape from home. They have a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Norfolk Terrier have high prey drive?
Their prey drive is low. Norfolk Terrier dogs don't have an impulse to catch or chase small animals.

Norfolk Terrier Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The Norfolk Terrier is a playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do Norfolk Terrier dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Drop-Eared Norwich Terrier bark?
Average to High: The Norfolk Terrier is a vocal breed. Not the best choice if you prefer a quiet breed. They often bark loudly and howl sometimes. 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 Terrier good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Norfolk Terrier in an apartment?
Apartment-friendly dog the Norfolk Terrier 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 Terrier Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Norfolk Terrier 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 Terrier be left alone? How long can you leave a Norfolk Terrier alone?
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner. With proper socialization and quality time with the dog can solve this problem.

Norfolk Terrier Bite Characteristics

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

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Norfolk Terrier bite force: Weak. The Norfolk Terrier bite force is considered weak when compared to other dog breeds. The bite force Norfolk Terrier measurements usually fall below 200 PSI, making them one of the breeds with the weakest bite force. The bite force of a Norfolk Terrier may be weak, but it's important to remember that any dog's bite can still be dangerous if not managed properly. Despite the bite force of Norfolk Terrier being lower, it does not make them any less lovable or enjoyable as pets.

Norfolk Terrier bite wounds might not be as severe, but it is still essential to be cautious and prevent any biting incidents.

They are usually not aggressive and very friendly towards children and other animals. To ensure a well-behaved dog, it's essential to learn how to train a Norfolk Terrier puppy not to bite from an early age. With proper training and socialization, a Norfolk Terrier can be a wonderful addition to any family, providing love and companionship for years to come.

Biting Potential
Do Norfolk Terrier bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Drop-Eared Norwich Terrier? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Norfolk Terrier? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Norfolk Terrier 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 Terrier do?
Norfolk Terrier dogs have a lower than 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 Terrier dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Norfolk Terrier Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Norfolk Terrier dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
The Norfolk Terrier 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 Terrier breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Norfolk Terrier see the vet?
Average
The Norfolk Terrier 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 Terrier dogs live? How old can a Norfolk Terrier be? What is the age limit of the Norfolk Terrier? How many years can the oldest Norfolk Terrier live?

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

How long is the lifespan of a Norfolk Terrier?

11-15 years
The average lifespan of Norfolk Terrier: 13 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 Terrier can adapt to well to cold weather conditions, some dogs even can be a good mountain dog.

Norfolk Terrier Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Norfolk Terrier have? What is the activity level of the Norfolk Terrier?
Norfolk Terrier 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 Terrier need? How much exercise do Norfolk Terrier dogs require per day?

Do Norfolk Terrier dogs need a lot of exercises?

Norfolk Terrier dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Norfolk Terrier breed need?
Norfolk Terrier 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 Terrier Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Norfolk Terrier need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Norfolk Terrier breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Norfolk Terrier? How much food should I feed my Norfolk Terrier?
1/4 to 1/2 cup 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 Terrier risk for obesity:
High: The Norfolk Terrier breed has a strong tendency to be overweight. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding. If you want to keep balance, increase the amount and frequency of your daily dog walk and play with the Norfolk Terrier more often.

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

Norfolk Terrier Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Norfolk Terrier have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
WiryShaggy
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Norfolk Terrier coats?
BlackTan Red Grizzle Wheaten
Grooming
How to groom the Norfolk Terrier and how often? How often should I take my Norfolk Terrier to the groomer?
Average: The Norfolk Terrier requires average grooming effort. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't essential.

Brushing the dog's coat is useful to reduce shedding. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath can be helpful sometimes.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and give your dog a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Norfolk Terrier, search for a dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.

Shedding Level
How much do Norfolk Terrier dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Drop-Eared Norwich Terrier? Do Norfolk Terrier dogs shed a lot?
Norfolk Terrier dogs shed none to minimal. Having a puppy from this breed you don't have to be afraid of your couch or car being covered by dog hair. Norfolk Terrier dogs could be the best choice if you don't tolerate dog hair.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Norfolk Terrier need a bath? How often should you give a Norfolk Terrier a bath? Can I bathe my Norfolk Terrier every day?
8-12 weeks
Very 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 Terrier breed hypoallergenic?
Yes
Norfolk Terrier dogs do well with allergy sufferers by causing fewer allergic reaction. However there are no 100% hypoallergenic dogs in the world, there are a variety of breeds that are considered to reduce or minimize the 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 Terrier 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 Terrier drool?
The Norfolk Terrier is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Norfolk Terrier 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 Terrier.

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

Norfolk Terrier Good With

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

Norfolk Terrier As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Norfolk Terrier 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 Terrier is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Norfolk Terrier be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Norfolk Terrier 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 Terrier is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Norfolk Terrier 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 Terrier is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Norfolk Terrier 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 Terrier is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

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

Not really

Norfolk Terrier 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 Terrier 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 Terrier is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

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

Not really

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

Norfolk Terrier Reproducibility

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

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Norfolk Terrier: 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 Terrier have in a litter? How many puppies can the Norfolk Terrier breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Norfolk Terrier have? How many puppies can a Norfolk Terrier give birth to?
2-5 puppies

Norfolk Terrier Recognition

AKC Group
Is Norfolk Terrier recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1979 as a Terrier breed.
FCI Group
Is Norfolk Terrier recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Recognized by FCI in the Terriers group, in the Small sized Terriers section.

Norfolk Terrier Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Hypoallergenic: Norfolk Terrier dogs do well with allergy sufferers by causing fewer allergic reaction.
  • Apartment Friendly: Apartment-friendly dog the Norfolk Terrier breed.
  • Shedding Level: Norfolk Terrier dogs shed none to minimal.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Norfolk Terrier is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Mouthiness: Norfolk Terrier dogs have a lower than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
  • Adaptability: Norfolk Terrier dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Child Friendly: Norfolk Terrier dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Cat Friendly: Norfolk Terrier dogs are cat-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Norfolk Terrier dogs are dog-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Norfolk Terriers are usually recommended for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Norfolk Terrier dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Intelligent Rank: Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
  • Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: High: The Norfolk Terrier breed has a strong tendency to be overweight.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: The wanderlust potential of the Norfolk Terrier is strong enough to escape from home.
  • Office Friendly: Norfolk Terrier is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Norfolk Terrier History

The Norfolk Terrier was originally bred to hunt and kill vermin and catch foxes in the early 1800s, because of their sturdy, alert and fearless nature and even temperament.

An English dog breeder named Frank “Roughrider” Jones in the early 20th century developed little red terriers by including several breeds like the Border, Cairn, and Glen of Irish terriers. At first, the Norfolk (ears down) and the Norwich (ears up) terriers were considered to be the same breed. Both of these breeds’ names were originated from near towns in England, Norwich on the Eastside, and Norfolk which lies north of London.

Being originated from the United Kingdom, the little red terriers quickly became a state icon. A Cambridge student, Jodrell Hopkins was one of the early breeders of Norfolk / Norwich terriers, alongside a dog dealer Charles "Doggy" Lawrence, they together bred and sold little red terriers to students. The breed quickly found its fanciers among the students, who used them mainly for catching rats around the colleges and named them Trumpington Terrier, in urban slang, after a street near Cambridge.

Several fanciers began to refine the breed. One of the first exporters of the breed was R. J. Read who later became the president of the Norwich Terrier Club in England.

Phyllis Fagan was another very influential breeder in Norfolk’s history. He acquired a red female terrier named Brownie. Many believe that the Norfolks today are descended from her. Brownie was famous among the terrier community, thanks to her gracious victories in dog shows.

The Norwich and the Norfolk breed were considered to be the same because until the early 1920s both drop-eared and prick-eared dogs were interbred with each other. From the 1930s the two breeds started to diverge. The AKC (American Kennel Club) recognized the breeds in 1936. However, both the United Kingdom and the United States officially recognized Norfolk to be an independent, distinct breed in 1964.

In 1977, The Canadian Kennel Club accepted the Norfolk and the Norwich to be distinct breeds. Two years later, in 1979 the AKC did the same.

Rate The Norfolk Terrier Breed

Norfolk Terrier Comments, Reviews and Questions