Norfolk Terrier

Developed in East Anglia, England (19th–early 20th century), these tough little terriers worked in stables and fields controlling rats and helping foxhunters. Originally grouped with the Norwich Terrier, the two breeds were split in the 1960s: Norfolk = dropped ears, Norwich = prick ears. Despite their size, Norfolks were prized for courage, stable temperaments, and versatility—traits that still define the breed today.

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A low, cobby terrier with a harsh, weatherproof jacket and dropped (“button”) ears.

• Weight: ~11–12 lb (5–5.5 kg)
• Height: ~9–10 in (23–25 cm)
• Coat Type: Double coat—hard, wiry outer coat with soft undercoat
• Coat Colors: Red, wheaten, black & tan, or grizzle (with/without small white marks)
• Distinctive Physical Traits: Dropped ears, dark expressive eyes, strong forechest, short level back, high-set tail, brave “ready-to-go” stance

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Low shedding when maintained properly; the coat is meant to be hand-stripped.

• Brushing/Combing: 1–2×/week to the skin to prevent felting
• Hand-Stripping: Every 8–12 weeks to remove blown coat and keep texture harsh (clipping softens coat, increases shedding)
• Bathing: Every 6–8 weeks; fully dry; avoid over-bathing to protect coat oils
• Face/Feet/Tidy: Light tidy around feet/sanitary; keep furnishings neat (don’t scissor into a “plush” look)
• Ears/Teeth/Nails: Clean ears weekly; brush teeth 2–3×/week; trim nails every 3–4 weeks
• Shedding: Low to moderate (lowest when hand-stripped)

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Compact athlete with a terrier work ethic.

• Daily Exercise: 45–60 minutes (brisk walks, off-leash zooms in secure areas, training games)
• Great Activities: Earthdog/go-to-ground, nose work, agility, hiking, fetch, “sniffaris” on a long line
• Suitability: Excellent for houses or apartments with daily outlets and enrichment

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Smart, game, and people-oriented—with a dash of independence.

• Approach: Positive reinforcement; short, fun sessions; vary rewards (food/toys/verbal)
• Focus Areas: Recall around wildlife, impulse control (“leave it,” door manners), polite greetings, “quiet” on cue
• Terrier Outlets: Provide dig boxes/scent games; teach a solid “drop” for found treasures
• Socialization: Early exposure to dogs/people/surfaces/sounds to channel boldness into confidence

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Feed for lean muscle and long-term joint health.

• Food Type: High-quality small-breed kibble or balanced fresh diet
• Daily Quantity: ~1–1.5 cups/day, split into two meals (adjust for age/activity)
• Diet Advice: Keep body condition at 4–5/9; count training treats; consider omega-3s (EPA/DHA) for skin/coat; dental chews + brushing for oral health

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Choose health-tested, well-socialized pups—or consider rescue.

• Breeders: Seek CKC-affiliated preservation breeders who provide patella/eye/heart results, early socialization, and lifetime take-back
• Adoption: Terrier and earthdog rescues; breed clubs may rehome adults
• Canadian Resources: Canadian Kennel Club breeder directory; regional earthdog/nose-work clubs in ON/BC/QC/AB for training and community

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Generally sturdy and long-lived; screen like any small terrier.

• Common Issues: Patellar luxation, dental tartar/crowding, mitral valve disease (some lines), hip dysplasia (less common), eye disease (cataracts/PRA in some lines), allergies
• Life Expectancy: 12–15 years
• Recommended Testing (breeders): Patellas, eyes (CAER), cardiac exam; hips as available; discuss family history of dental/heart/eye issues

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Are Norfolk Terriers good apartment dogs?
Yes—compact and adaptable with 45–60 minutes of daily exercise and bark management.

Do Norfolk Terriers shed?
Low to moderate. Hand-stripping keeps shedding minimal and coat harsh; clipping increases shedding/softness.

Are Norfolk Terriers hypoallergenic?
No breed is truly hypoallergenic; Norfolks are lower-shedding when properly maintained.

Norfolk vs Norwich—what’s the difference?
Ears: Norfolk = dropped, Norwich = prick. Temperament and size are broadly similar; meet lines to compare.

How much grooming does a Norfolk need?
Brush 1–2×/week and hand-strip every 8–12 weeks; tidy feet/sani; regular ear/teeth/nail care.

Do Norfolks bark or dig a lot?
They can—both are terrier traits. Teach “quiet,” provide a dig pit, and use scent games for outlets.

Are Norfolk Terriers good with kids and other pets?
Generally affectionate family dogs; supervise with small pets due to prey drive and teach calm greetings with children.

How easy are they to train?
Very trainable with positive, varied sessions—avoid repetitive drilling; keep it fun and purposeful.

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