Norfolk Terrier
Pocket-sized courage with folded ears and a farm-dog heart.
Vital stats
| Size | Very small · 23–25 cm |
| Weight | 5–5.5 kg |
| Life expectancy | 12–16 years |
| Energy | Moderate — 45–60 min/day |
| Shedding | Low, seasonal |
| Coat | Hard wiry coat · red, wheaten, black-and-tan, grizzle |
| Group | Terrier · FCI №272 / AKC |
Breed traits
Friendliness
Care
Mind
Temperament
Bred in East Anglia to dispatch rats and bolt foxes alongside the hunt, the Norfolk worked in company — which left it notably more sociable with other dogs than the average terrier. At home it is affectionate, game for anything, and convinced that hedgerows exist to be investigated at full speed.
Habits & quirks
The excavation unit
Flowerbeds are treated as archaeological sites with rats presumed below.
Size unread
It never received the memo about being small, and greets large dogs as equals.
Blanket burrowing
A den dog at heart — it tunnels under throws and emerges only for meals.
Hedge patrol
Every walk doubles as a sweep for anything that rustles.
Care
| Grooming | Hand-strip the harsh coat roughly twice a year to keep its colour and weatherproof texture; weekly brushing between. |
| Exercise | A brisk daily hour of walks and play; this is a working terrier, not a lap ornament. |
| Containment | Fence the garden low and deep — a bored Norfolk digs with professional intent. |
| Training | Build recall early and keep it leashed near wildlife; centuries of prey drive outrank your biscuits. |
Common questions
What is the difference between a Norfolk and a Norwich Terrier?
Ears, mainly: the Norfolk's fold forward while the Norwich's stand pricked. They shared a breed name until 1964, and remain near-identical in size and character.
Are Norfolk Terriers good with children?
Yes — they are sturdy, playful and patient for their size, and suit families who respect a small dog's limits. Teach children gentle handling and everyone thrives.
Do Norfolk Terriers bark a lot?
They alert like any terrier but are less shrill than most small breeds. Enough exercise and a job for the brain keep announcements reasonable.