These sturdy and compact little dogs are one of the smallest terrier breeds in the world. Norfolk Terriers make loving companions and family dogs. They like to cuddle, play chase and dig in the garden…and may even re-landscape your garden for some entertainment. But they are also fearless, especially when it comes to eradicating rodents from your home. They will dig them out of any hole they might hide in!
Norfolk Terriers were bred as a variety of the Norwich Terrier, and have a slightly different temperament. Their looks, however, are almost the same, with just their ears being different (the Norfolk Terrier has drop ears while the Norwich Terrier’s are erect).
Norfolk Terriers won’t care what you do as long as they can be part of your day-to-day activities. The more variety these outings have the more they will enjoy it. They are not keen on routine and truly enjoy new adventures. Taking them on holidays is easy as they simply adapt to their new environment as long as you are there.
These little dogs enjoy running and if they find a dog at the park to play chase with, they will go until they eventually collapse from exhaustion!
Don’t underestimate their sharpness and intelligence. Teaching them new things is easy, and they retain things well. Norfolk Terriers have been known to outsmart their owners and wrap them around their little paws! You will be smitten by their charm and won’t notice that you are suddenly getting trained by your dog.
Their coats are easy to look after, and it is recommended to trim the coat twice a year and just brush off dead hair once in a while.
Weight: | 5-5.4 kg |
Health risk: | Medium |
Life expectancy: | 12-15 years |
Coat: | Medium |
Grooming intensity: | Medium |
Monthly cost (food): | very low |
Trainability: | Medium |
Activity level: | High |
There are many sources to get your Norfolk Terrier from. Considering the number of homeless dogs without a future, we strongly encourage you to consider rescuing a dog. Your local shelter or rescue organisation can be a helpful place to start, or try contacting your local or national breed club or a reputable breeder and asking if they have pets available for rehoming. Many rescue organisations have active Facebook pages, which can also be a good place to enquire.
Here are some links that could be useful for finding a Norfolk Terrier to adopt:
To help your rescued Norfolk Terrier to settle into your home, our Rescue Dog Guide gives you tips and advice on bringing your rescue dog home.
If you decide you’d prefer to get your Norfolk Terrier from a breeder, the following guides will help you to find a responsible breeder:
The following organisations will be able to help you find breeders in your state in Australia. They will also be able to connect you with your local breed clubs, which are always a great source of information in regards to finding good breeders and rescue organisations.