Quick Facts:

Group Classification: Terrier, AKC Terrier

Country of Origin: Great Britain

Date of Origin: 1960

Weight (M):10 to 12 pounds, Height (M): 10 inches
Weight (F):9 to 11 pounds, Height (F): 9 to 10 inches

Life expectancy: 12-15 years

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History

In the early periods of 1880, sportsmen in Britain developed working terriers of East Anglia on the eastern side of Europe. Norwich terriers, later known as Norfolk terriers and having variety of drop ears, originated from crossbreeds of small red colored terriers, small short-legged breeds of Irish terriers and the local terrier-like dogs by the Gypsy ratters of Norfolk. Initially, students of the Cambridge University in England kept the Norfolk dogs in their rooms and branded them ‘Cantab terriers’. Later on, these breeds changed to ‘Trumpington Terrier’ after an area where the breeds were initially developed. After that just before the First World War, an Irish horse rider known as Frank Jones sold so many short-legged terriers to the American government. Due to that, these dogs adapted the name John Terriers.

General Description

These loveable little dogs are among the tiniest in the working terrier groups. The breed has strong, sturdy and short bodies with powerful bonny legs and fox-like muzzles with extensive solid teeth. The Norfolk Terriers’ eyes are expressive and dark and ears are tight and hang to their cheeks. Their tails are docked by half and they have straight, wiry coats that are available in tan, red, black, wheaten, grizzle and black colors with rare white markings. The dogs’ eyebrows and faces sport jaunty whiskers.

Temperament

Although Norfolk terriers are brave and can defend themselves when necessary, they are not aggressive. Of all the Terrier group pets, Norfolk Terriers along with Border terriers and Norwich terriers, have the softest personalities. These pets like working when in packs and get along with different dog breeds and domestic animals easily. Since they are friendly, Norfolk Terriers adore human beings and children and they therefore make exceptional pets. The levels of activities largely rely on the environmental pace. These dogs ought not to live outside because they do better when in contact with human beings. Norfolk Terrier dogs rarely dig but when they are bored or left alone for long periods, they will be found digging. These dogs are also barkers and are exceptionally vocal.

Health and Care

Norfolk dogs are generally considered as healthy breeds although there are some health incidences that responsible dog breeders think need preventive testing. Norfolk terriers have complications like incorrect bites, luxating patellas and mitral valve diseases. In the first condition, the teeth fail to align with the standard of the breeds; either undershot or overshot. In most cases, these pets have low hip sockets; therefore, masters must test their dogs for hip dysplasia.

Dog Exercises

The Norfolk dogs are suitably designed to work. This is because these dogs are full of energy and thrive on active lives, meaning going for daily walks with their masters can make these breeds healthy and physically fit. While taking these dogs for walks, the Norfolk dogs ought to be behind or beside the master so that they learn that it is the leader who is in control.

Pets4You offers listings of Norfolk Terrier breeders with puppies for sale.