Terrier group · England
Norfolk Terrier
Also called Drop-Eared Norwich Terrier.
What makes them remarkable
The ears reveal the difference: Norfolk Terriers have folded ears, while Norwich Terriers have upright ones.
- Fearless
- Loyal
- Alert
- Spirited
- Affectionate

- 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.
Keep It Encouraging
Start here
Norfolks are sensitive and respond poorly to harsh corrections. Reward generously and correct with a quiet word.
Consistent Boundaries
Despite their small size, they need clear rules. Don't let cute factor override training.
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, one step at a time.
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
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