Home Page Health Small Dog Breeds Norfolk TerrierThe Norfolk Terrier is the Smallest Working TerrierThe Norfolk Terrier originated in the East of England, in the county of Norfolk and is very closely related to the Norwich Terrier. They were originally both classed as the Norwich Terrier. There is a difference in the shape of the ears and they were recognized as two separate breeds by the English Kennel Club in 1964 and designated the drop-eared variety as the Norfolk Terrier, and the prick-eared as the Norwich. Today, the two breeds have slight differences and different breed standards. The Norfolk terrier was not acknowledged as a separate breed by the American Kennel Club until 1979. He is a sturdy little dog, standing about ten inches tall at the shoulder and weighing about twelve pounds. He is not among the top 70 most popular breeds in the US. Both the Norfolk and the Norwich Terriers were bred primarily to hunt rats and other small vermin but were also used in packs, to flush foxes during hunts. Being a terrier, he has a strong prey drive and will chase and attack other small animals and possibly pets, so he should always be kept on a leash when out in public places. He is a very good watchdog and he is fearless, although too small to make an effective guard dog. Grooming The Norfolk TerrierThe Norfolk Terrier is a very minimal shedder, so he is an excellent choice if loose hair would be a problem in your home. He has a harsh, wiry topcoat and a soft, warm undercoat. If the dog is working in the field, his coat should be combed daily with a steel comb, but all that is really necessary for grooming a companion dog is a good combing once a week to remove the loose, dead hairs and prevent matting. As a minimum, the coat is hand stripped twice a year, in the Spring and in the Fall. Exercise For The Norfolk TerrierThe Norfolk Terrier, although small, is a typical terrier with all the energy and enthusiasm that is common with this breed. He needs exercise every day, with a long walk being the minimum. He should always be walked on a leash, because he is prone to chase other small animals and may attack them. This prey drive is a common feature with all the terrier breeds. If he can be allowed to play and romp in a secure, enclosed area, with a ball or some toys, he will enjoy his exercise all the more (you may not have to walk quite so far!). Training The Norfolk TerrierYou must remember the Norfolk Terrier is a terrier! Terriers were always bred to work largely by instinct and on their own initiative, so he will have an independent streak, which means he can be difficult to train. In the intelligence ratings compiled by Dr Stanley Coren, he is placed 56th out of 79 breed groups, with "fair working obedience/intelligence and understanding of new commands", which is slightly below the average for all breeds. While he is willing and eager to please you he is independent and can be stubborn and difficult to train. You will require a firm, patient approach, applied regularly every day. Training sessions should be short and interesting, with plenty of variation and praise - but only when he gets it right! Do not praise his mistakes or disobedience or you will just confuse him. He can be difficult to housebreak. The Norfolk Terrier's TemperamentThe Norfolk Terrier is very adaptable, either in a small apartment or in a rural situation. He is devoted and affectionate and loves human company. He is especially good and protective with small children but is not to be relied on with small family pets because he sees them as prey. Like most dogs, he doesn't like to be left alone for long periods. He is very alert and makes a good watchdog, because he will bark at the approach of strangers, or at any unusual sounds. Need To Learn More?,
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