Norfolk Terrier Dog Breed Information

  • AKA:n/a
  • Size:Small
  • Ease of Training:Low/Medium
  • Grooming:Medium
  • Shedding:Low
  • Exercise Needed:Daily walks and occasional runs
  • Energy Level:High
  • Protection:Makes an effective watchdog
  • Good with Children:Yes, with gentle children and those he has been brought up with
  • Health Clearances:Heart examination
  • Weight:11-12 lbs
  • Height:9-10 inches
  • Coat Colour:All shades of red, wheaten, black and tan, or grizzle

Norfolk Terrier Coat

The Norfolk Terrier has a protective weatherproof coat that is harsh, broken, and wiry. The outer coat lies close and flat to the body. The undercoat is soft in texture. The colours of the coat include red, wheaten, black and tan. The Norfolk Terrier is non-shedding.

Norfolk Terrier Character

The Norfolk Terrier is busy and curious. They are hardy and compact, fearless but not aggressive. They carry themselves with importance and self-confidence. They are gregarious, loyal, and in seemingly constant motion.

Norfolk Terrier Temperament

The Norfolk Terrier is always ready to play and loves children. They are generally good with other dogs and cats, but may view smaller pets as prey. In some cases they may exhibit jealousy. They are amiable companions who enjoy being in a family environment. They possess sensitivity and may be stubborn. The Norfolk Terrier is a relentless and tireless worker, full of spirit. They are good watchdogs that will bark to alert their family to danger or visitors.

Norfolk Terrier Care

The Norfolk Terrier requires daily brushing. They are a non-shedding breed and do not shed their coats naturally. Therefore, a professional grooming session to strip the coat twice a year is highly recommended. This allows the new weatherproof coat to come through which is an important feature of this breed. Norfolk Terriers highly prone to a genetic, life threatening heart abnormality. They are also susceptible to genetic eye problems, hip dysplasia, and patella luxation.

Norfolk Terrier Activity

The Norfolk Terrier loves adventure and play. They enjoy vigorous walks on a secure leash, a refreshing swim, or a short jog. They thrive on activity. Norfolk Terriers derive great pleasure from romping in a securely fenced yard with their family. If they are left alone outside for extended periods of time they will become bored and destructive. They can adapt to apartment living provided they are given sufficient exercise and stimulation.

Norfolk Terrier Health and Life Expectancy

The life expectancy of the Norfolk Terrier is around 12-14 years. This is largely a health and hardy breed, but there are a few health problems to look out for. This includes heart problems, hip problems, luxating patella, sensitivity to anaesthetic, and collapsing trachea. A heart exam is recommended when selecting your Norfolk Terrier puppy.