Norfolk Terrier Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Norfolk Terrier is one of the smallest working terriers, a friendly, hardy dog that was developed in eastern England to hunt rats and bolt foxes. It is outgoing and good-natured, and it adapts well to family life.

Origins and appearance

The breed originated in Norfolk, England, and was once classified with the Norwich Terrier. The two were separated in the twentieth century, mainly on ear type: Norfolks have folded ears and Norwich Terriers have erect ones. Norfolks are short and sturdy, with a fox-like face, a hard, wiry coat in red, wheaten, black and tan or grizzle, and a docked or natural tail depending on the country.

Temperament

Norfolks are sociable and cheerful. They get along with people and other dogs, as they were bred to hunt in packs. They enjoy company, have a sense of humor and are generally good with children. They retain terrier traits such as digging, chasing and barking. They are less aggressive than many terriers.

Exercise

They need around an hour of daily activity. Walks, play and exploring a garden suit them well. They enjoy agility and earthdog work. Keep them on a leash or in a fenced area, since prey drive can send them chasing. See recall training guide.

Training

Norfolks are intelligent and eager to please, though they have an independent streak. Use positive training with varied games. House training is usually manageable. Socialize early. They are often good candidates for obedience classes.

Coat and grooming

The weather-resistant coat needs brushing weekly and stripping or trimming a few times a year. See wire coat dog grooming guide. Bathe occasionally, clean ears, trim nails and brush teeth. Shedding is light.

Health considerations

The breed is generally hardy, but topics include:

• Heart disease and mitral valve problems. See heart murmur in dogs
• Luxating patella. See luxating patella in dogs
• Upper airway syndrome, with noisy breathing
• Seizures. See dog seizures and epilepsy
• Hip dysplasia and dental disease
• Skin allergies

Living with a Norfolk Terrier

They adapt to houses and apartments with exercise. Provide a secure yard and company. They are often easygoing travelers.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are bouncy and curious. Begin socialization, use a crate and teach basic cues. Provide chew toys and a digging box. Watch for noisy breathing and mention it. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Budget for grooming, routine vet visits and possible cardiac checks. The breed is often long-lived. See dog vet cost guide.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include underexercising, skipping coat care and relying on off-leash reliability. Norfolks also dislike being left alone for long hours.

Questions to ask a breeder or rescue

Ask about heart screening, patella checks, airway health and any seizure history in the line. Ask how puppies are socialized.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Norfolk Terrier suits people who want a friendly, small, hardy terrier and enjoy outdoor activity. It may not suit someone wanting a quiet, low-activity dog. For a similar breed, see the Norwich Terrier.

Seasons and travel

Norfolks cope with cool, damp weather, but dry the coat after wet walks and check for burrs and ticks. In summer, keep outings gentle in the heat of the day. They are good travelers, and many are happy to follow their people to outdoor cafes and friends' homes.

The takeaway

Norfolk Terriers are sociable, sturdy and cheerful, and they need exercise, training and regular grooming.