Norfolk TerrierCharacteristics, history, training and care

The FCI standard says the Norfolk and the Norwich take their names from the county and the city in the east of England, but in the early and middle 19th century there was no such distinction: it was simply a general farm dog. The Glen of Imaal, red Cairn Terriers and the Dandie Dinmont are among the breeds behind these terriers.

It was used on foxes, badgers and rats. Wikipedia says that until it was recognised as a separate breed in 1964, it was a variety of the Norwich Terrier, distinguished by its drop ears, and the AKC recognised the split in 1979.

How the breed developed

• Early 19th century – A general farm dog in the east of England.
• 1964 – The Kennel Club recognises it separately from the Norwich, according to Wikipedia.
• 1 October 1966 – The FCI recognises the breed.
• 1979 – The AKC recognises the split from the Norwich.

Indicative rating: 5 stars means the highest level. It is based on the ratings the American Kennel Club gives the breed and on the FCI standard.

The standard describes it as a typical short-legged terrier, with a solid, compact body. The AKC says it is one of the smallest working terriers, no more than 25 cm at the withers.

General appearance

The coat is hard, wiry and straight, lying close to the body, longer and rougher on the neck and shoulders. The hair on the head and ears is short and smooth, with slight whiskers and eyebrows. The ears drop forward.

The accepted colours are all shades of red, wheaten, black and tan, and grizzle. White marks are not desirable, but are permitted.

The standard describes it as “a demon for its size”, with a lovable nature, not quarrelsome, hardy, alert and fearless. It does not give up at work, but it does not start a fight either.

The AKC says that, having been bred to hunt in packs, it is more sociable than the typical independent terrier. It is very clever and attached to its family, but may test its limits, so obedience training is a must.

Tips for effective training

• Do obedience training. The AKC says it is a must.
• Keep it on the lead. It has a strong prey drive.
• Do not leave it with hamsters or ferrets. The AKC says they are at risk.
• Use rewards. It is clever and attached to its family.

The AKC says it is an energetic, very adaptable breed, happy in town, in the country or as a travelling companion, as long as it gets plenty of exercise every day.

Tips for a balanced life

• It suits both town and country.
• The fence must have no gaps.
• Do not leave it unsupervised with small animals.

Coat and skin care

The AKC says it has a double coat, harsh outside and soft underneath, which protects it from heat and cold. Hand-stripping removes old hair and excess undercoat, so that new, glossy, richly coloured hair can grow.

Common health problems

The AKC says it is generally healthy, and responsible breeders screen their dogs for:

Other care

• Brush its teeth often, with dog toothpaste.
• Go for regular check-ups and parasite treatments.
• Trim the nails regularly.

The AKC says some dogs gain weight easily, so calories and weight should be watched.

Tips for a healthy diet

The table gives a starting estimate, calculated with the formula from the Merck Veterinary Manual. The first two calorie columns show the calories per day for a healthy adult dog. The last column shows what this means in dry food with 3,500–4,000 kcal per kilogram.

• Give it its food in two meals a day.
• Treats count towards the daily portion.
• A dog is at the right weight when you can feel its ribs under the coat without pressing hard.

Foods to avoid

Some human foods are dangerous for dogs: chocolate, coffee, grapes and raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol (a sweetener used in chewing gum), macadamia nuts and alcohol.

Physical and emotional maturity

In dogs, sexual maturity usually comes between 6 and 12 months. Small breeds become adults faster than large ones, usually at around one year.

Mating and pregnancy

Pregnancy lasts about 63 days, counted from ovulation. Mating a female on her first heat is not recommended. The FCI standard requires that only healthy dogs of typical breed appearance are used for breeding.

Caring for the puppies

In small breeds, a litter has 3–4 puppies on average. The puppies are very small and fragile in the first weeks, so they must be kept warm and handled with care. Socialisation starts early: gentle handling, everyday noises and new people.

• The ears make the difference. The Norwich has erect ears, the Norfolk drop ears.
• “A demon”. The standard describes it as a demon for its size.
• A pack hunter. That is why it is more sociable than other terriers.
• Among the smallest. It is one of the smallest working terriers.
• It does not start fights. It is fearless, but does not look for trouble.

What is the difference between the Norfolk and the Norwich?

The Norfolk has drop ears, the Norwich erect ears.

How big does it get?

Ideally 25 cm; the AKC gives 5–5.5 kg.

Is it good with children?

The AKC gives it top marks for being good with children.

How long does it live?

The AKC gives 12–16 years.