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Dog Breed

Norwich Terrier

Breed Overview

Breed Name: Norwich Terrier

Origin: United Kingdom (England)

Breed Group: Terrier

Physical Characteristics

Size: Small

Height: Male: 10 inches (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, and straight outer coat with soft undercoat

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

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

Shedding: Low to Moderate

Behavioral Traits

Temperament: Friendly, spirited, affectionate, confident, alert

Intelligence Level: High

Energy Level: Moderate to High

Health Information

Lifespan: 12–15 years

Common Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, tracheal collapse, epilepsy, patellar luxation

Care

Nutrition Needs: High-quality small-breed diet; monitor weight

Exercise Needs: Moderate – daily walks and play keep them happy

Space Requirements: Very adaptable; ideal for apartments or homes

Noise Sensitivity: Moderate (can be vocal and alert)

Socialization and Training

Socialization Needs: High

Socialization Tips: Smart and eager, though can be stubborn; responds well to consistent, positive training

Good with Children: Yes, usually sociable

Good with Other Dogs: Yes, usually sociable

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

Training: Smart and eager, though can be stubborn; responds well to consistent, positive training

Description

The Norwich Terrier is one of the smallest terrier breeds, but it packs big personality and courage into its compact body. Originally bred for ratting and fox bolting in England, Norwich Terriers are now known for being lively, affectionate, and game for anything—from cuddles to adventure.

Their wire-haired double coat is low-shedding, but it needs hand-stripping several times a year to stay healthy and maintain its texture. Norwich Terriers are intelligent and eager, though they have a strong terrier streak, meaning consistent, fun, positive training works best. They thrive with daily activity, puzzle toys, and time with their people.

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History

Origin: The Norwich Terrier originated in the late 19th century in East Anglia, England, particularly around the town of Norwich in Norfolk County. It descended from a mix of terrier breeds, including the Cantab Terrier and Trumpington Terrier, which were themselves crosses of Irish Terriers, Yorkshire Terriers, and local East Anglian red terriers. These small, predominantly red terriers were bred for hunting small rodents and fox bolting. Early breeders like Charles Lawrence and E. Jodrell Hopkins helped shape the breed, which was popular among huntsmen and Cambridge University students due to its gameness, size, and friendly disposition.
Development: The breed was initially bred for working ability—ridding stables and barns of rats and bolting foxes—while also being a companion dog. Two ear types emerged: prick ears and drop ears. Both were originally registered together when the breed was recognized by The Kennel Club in 1932. Over time, the distinction between ear types grew, and in 1979 the American Kennel Club (AKC) separated the Norwich Terrier (prick-eared) from the Norfolk Terrier (drop-eared) as distinct breeds. The breed’s development emphasized a compact, sturdy body with a hard double coat, retaining its hunting instincts and energetic temperament while becoming a popular family companion.
Recognition: The Norwich Terrier was officially recognized by The Kennel Club (UK) in 1932, initially including both ear types. The breed was introduced to the United States in the early 20th century, with the first AKC registration in 1936. In 1979, the AKC formally split the Norwich Terrier and Norfolk Terrier into separate breeds based on ear carriage. Both breeds shared a parent club in the U.S. until 2009, when separate breed clubs were established. The Norwich Terrier is classified in the Terrier Group by major kennel clubs worldwide.
Today, the Norwich Terrier is a lively, affectionate, and intelligent companion dog known for its friendly temperament and small size, typically weighing around 10–12 pounds. It retains its original hunting instincts but is primarily kept as a family pet and show dog. The breed has a weather-resistant double coat, usually in shades of red, wheaten, or grizzle and tan. Norwich Terriers are energetic and require regular exercise and mental stimulation. They are confident, social, and generally get along well with other dogs and children, making them well-suited for active households.

Dog Breed

Norwich Terrier

Breed Overview

Physical Characteristics

Behavioral Traits

Health Information

Care

Socialization and Training

Description

History

Ideal Owner

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