Norfolk Terrier

Dog Breed Profile

Norfolk Terrier History

The Norfolk Terrier is a toy breed of dog originally developed in England to hunt vermin in barns and stables. The Norfolk Terrier is a lively, energetic, compactly built terrier, similar in appearance to other small English terriers. The Norfolk Terrier has a soft, wiry coat that comes in colors such as brindle, black and tan, orange, and tri-color. The head is round and tapered, and the ears are small and erect. The eyes are dark and almond-shaped. The tail is docked to about 4–5 cm (1.5–2.0 in).

Time of Origin

1800s

Country of Origin

England

Ancestry

English White Terrier

Norfolk Terrier Physical Characteristics

The Norfolk Terrier is a small, medium-to-large sized breed of dog that is typically 8 to 10 inches in height and 11 to 13 inches in weight. They have a thick, double coat that is either blue and tan, salt and pepper, or pepper and salt. They have a fox-like face that can be coarse or fine boned and a black nose. Their tail is docked and their ears are erect. The Norfolk Terrier is clever, alert, and fearless.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Unknown

Coat Colors

Unknown

Height Range

Male Height Range: 9 – 10 inches

Female Height Range: 9 – 10 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 11 – 12 lbs

Female Weight Range: 11 – 12 lbs

Norfolk Terrier Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

13-15 yrs

Norfolk Terrier Health Concerns

Mitral Valve Disease, Cataracts

Norfolk Terrier Temperament and Behaviour

The Norfolk Terrier is a lively, playful, and active breed. They are often very animated and rambunctious, and they love to play. They are very intelligent and easy to train. They are protective of their family and are wary of strangers, but are also friendly and sociable.

Norfolk Terrier Activity Requirements

Norfolk Terriers are small, spunky little terriers that are easily recognized by their distinct black and tan coat. They are intelligent and easy to train, which makes them an ideal candidate for dog sports such as obedience and agility. Despite their small size, they still require a fair amount of exercise and mental stimulation. A daily walk or short play session will be enough to keep them happy and healthy. If you are looking for a quiet lapdog, a Norfolk Terrier may not be the right fit. They are lively and playful and like to make their owners laugh. If they get bored, they will create their own entertainment, which can include digging and chewing.