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Dog Breed

Norfolk Terrier

Breed Overview

Breed Name: Norfolk Terrier

Origin: United Kingdom (England)

Breed Group: Terrier

Physical Characteristics

Size: Small

Height: Male: 9–10 inches (23–25 cm), Female: 9–10 inches (23–25 cm)

Weight: Male: 11–12 lbs (5–5.5 kg), Female: 11–12 lbs (5–5.5 kg)

Coat Type: Hard, wiry, straight outer coat with soft undercoat

Coat Colors: Red, wheaten, black and tan, or grizzle

Grooming Needs: Moderate (regular brushing and hand-stripping)

Shedding: Low

Behavioral Traits

Temperament: Friendly, fearless, affectionate, alert, outgoing

Intelligence Level: High

Energy Level: Moderate to High

Health Information

Lifespan: 12–16 years

Common Health Issues: Mitral valve disease, hip dysplasia, patellar luxation

Care

Nutrition Needs: High-quality small-breed diet; monitor treats to avoid weight gain

Exercise Needs: Moderate – daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation

Space Requirements: Very adaptable; thrives in apartments or homes with yards

Noise Sensitivity: Moderate (alert and may bark)

Socialization and Training

Socialization Needs: High

Socialization Tips: Smart and eager but independent—responds well to positive, consistent training

Good with Children: Yes, usually sociable

Good with Other Dogs: Yes, usually sociable

Good with Other Pets: No, strong prey drive may make them unreliable with small animals

Training: Smart and eager but independent—responds well to positive, consistent training

Description

The Norfolk Terrier is one of the smallest working terriers, but don’t let their size fool you—these dogs are full of energy, courage, and charm. Originally bred for ratting and fox bolting, they are now popular lively companions who love to explore, play, and snuggle.

Their wire-haired coat sheds minimally, but it benefits from hand-stripping every few months to keep it healthy and maintain its weather-resistant qualities. Norfolk Terriers are intelligent and trainable, though they do have a strong independent streak, so early training and socialization are important.

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History

Origin: The Norfolk Terrier originated in East Anglia, England, in the late 19th century. Its development is closely linked to the Norwich Terrier, as both breeds share a common ancestry. Early breeders crossed local terrier-like dogs, small Irish Terriers, Cairn Terriers, and red terriers used by Romani ratters to create a small, energetic, and effective ratter and fox bolter. These dogs became popular among Cambridge University students in the 1880s, where they were known as Cantab Terriers, and later as Trumpington Terriers after the street where they were further developed. The breed's working roots are evident in its strong prey drive and hunting instincts.
Development: Initially, both prick-eared and drop-eared varieties were bred together under the Norwich Terrier name. Over time, breeders began to focus on one ear type or the other, as mixed ear carriage made breeding outcomes unpredictable. The drop-eared variety, which would become the Norfolk Terrier, was prized for its hardy, game temperament and adaptability as both a companion and working dog. By the 1930s, the breed began to divide along ear carriage lines, leading to more distinct development of the Norfolk (drop-eared) and Norwich (prick-eared) types.
Recognition: The Kennel Club in the UK first recognized the breed as the Norwich Terrier in 1932, including both ear types. It wasn't until 1964 that the Kennel Club officially separated the two, with the drop-eared dogs becoming the Norfolk Terrier and the prick-eared retaining the Norwich name. The American Kennel Club (AKC) and Canadian Kennel Club recognized the Norfolk as a distinct breed in 1979, following years of debate and breed development. The United Kennel Club also recognized the Norfolk Terrier in 1979.
Today, the Norfolk Terrier is celebrated as one of the smallest working terriers, known for its lively, fearless, and affectionate nature. It stands about 9–10 inches at the shoulder and weighs 11–12 pounds, with a wiry, weatherproof coat in shades of red, wheaten, black and tan, or grizzle. The breed thrives as a companion, excelling in activities like agility and earthdog trials, and is well-suited to both city and country living. Norfolks are social, intelligent, and require regular interaction and mental stimulation. They generally get along well with other dogs and children but retain a strong prey drive and should be supervised around small pets. With proper care, Norfolk Terriers typically live 13–15 years.

Ideal Owner

Individuals or families wanting a small, hardy, and affectionate terrier with big personality