Norfolk Terrier

Norfolk Terrier

Small Breed
Male Weight
5 - 5.4 kg
Female Weight
5 - 5.4 kg
Lifespan
12 - 16 years
Size Category
Small

About the Norfolk Terrier

The Norfolk Terrier is a small-sized breed. Males typically weigh between 5 and 5.4 kg when fully grown, while females weigh 5 to 5.4 kg. With an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years, the Norfolk Terrier is a long-lived breed.

Temperament

Norfolk Terrier dogs are friendly, alert, and full of personality. They are adaptable companions that suit a variety of living situations. They enjoy human company and do well with families, though interactions with young children should be supervised due to their smaller size. They are intelligent and respond well to positive training methods.

Exercise Needs

Norfolk Terrier dogs need about 30-60 minutes of daily exercise including walks and play. They are more active than their size suggests and enjoy exploring new environments. A secure garden is beneficial for off-lead play. They adapt well to both apartment and house living, provided they get regular outdoor time.

Common Health Issues

Norfolk Terrier dogs may be prone to patellar luxation, dental disease, ear infections, and eye problems common in small breeds. Regular veterinary check-ups help catch issues early. Maintaining a healthy weight is important as even small amounts of excess weight can stress their joints. Annual health screenings are recommended.

Grooming

Norfolk Terrier dogs benefit from regular brushing to maintain a healthy coat and manage shedding. Bathing every 4-6 weeks or as needed keeps the coat clean. Regular dental care, nail trimming, and ear cleaning are part of a good grooming routine. Check for any skin irritation, lumps, or parasites during grooming sessions.

Breed Traits

Energy Level
High
Trainability
Average
Shedding
Moderate
Barking
Frequent
Good with Kids
Excellent
Good with Dogs
Generally Good
Good with Strangers
Very Friendly

Origin & History

Origin: United Kingdom

The Norfolk Terrier is a British breed of dog. Prior to gaining recognition as an independent breed in 1964, it was a variety of the Norwich Terrier, distinguished from the "prick eared" Norwich by its "drop ears". Together, the Norfolk and Norwich Terriers are the smallest of the working terriers.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Famous Norfolk Terrier Owners

The Norfolk Terrier was originally known as "Jones' Terriers" after Frank Jones, an English dog dealer who exported sturdy working terriers to American sportsmen from the 1880s onwards. Jones' breeding lines established the foundation dogs brought to America that later influenced both Norfolk and Norwich Terrier development. The breed was separated from the Norwich Terrier by the Kennel Club in 1964 based on ear carriage. Norfolk Terriers remain popular with British sporting families and those seeking an authentic working terrier with genuine countryside heritage.

Is the Norfolk Terrier right for you?

Norfolk Terrier is an energetic breed requiring regular activity and suits homes with space to explore. Excellent with children of all ages, this breed makes a wonderful family companion. Generally compatible with other dogs, though early socialisation is important. Moderate grooming is needed to manage regular shedding. Quite vocal by nature, they may bark frequently if not trained. Training progresses at an average pace and requires consistent effort. Outgoing and friendly towards strangers, they warm quickly to new people.

Dogpanion's take: AI-generated based on breed trait data.

Norfolk Terrier Breed Guide Video

Weight & Growth

A fully grown male Norfolk Terrier weighs approximately 5 kg on average. Use Dogpanion's free size predictor to estimate your Norfolk Terrier puppy's adult weight based on their current age and weight.

Norfolk Terrier Care Tools

Dogpanion offers free tools to help you care for your Norfolk Terrier:

Track Your Norfolk Terrier with Dogpanion

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Homemade Recipes for Your Norfolk Terrier

Every ingredient verified safe. Use as occasional treats or meal toppers alongside a complete diet.

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Sardine and Kale Biscuits
15 minutes + 25 minutes · 30 biscuits
🎉
Pumpkin Peanut Butter Cookies
15 minutes + 20 minutes · 24 cookies
🥺
Lamb and Quinoa Bowl
10 minutes + 30 minutes · 3-4 portions
🍳
Chicken and Rice Bowl
5 minutes + 25 minutes · 2-3 dog portions
Browse all recipes