Other names:
| Norwich |
Origin
The Norwich Terrier has been around fro over 100 years. The ancestors of this little dog may have included the Border Terrier and is ancestors, the Cairn Terrier and a red terrier from Ireland. During the late 1800's they were popular with the students in Cambridge University, so much so that they became their mascot. The Norwich Terrier was first recognised in the UK in 1932. Some of these dogs had erect pointed ears and others had ears that dropped down close to the head. In 1965 the drop earred terrier was renamed the Norfolk Terrier.
Description
The Norwich Terrier is one of the smallest terriers around today. They have a wiry, hard, weatherproof coat that requires minimal grooming and upkeep. They have a fox like face with their characteristic erect ears.
| Size | Small |
| Colour | They come in a variety of colours, more commonly seen in self-colours such as all shades of red, wheaten, tan, grizzle or black, some may have limited white. |
| Coat Length | Short Smooth |
| Weight/Height Range | Ideally these terriers should measure 25-26cms at the withers and weigh no more than 6.5kgs. |
| Ailments | The Norfolk Terrier is a healthy and quite hardy breed of dog. The main concern seems to be skin related problems. |
| Breed Classification | The Norwich Terrier is a member of the terrier group. They were originally bred for hunting fox, badger and rats; today they are companions. |
Feeding & Ownership
The Norwich Terrier is an undemanding dog to feed with no special dietary requirements; they generally have a good appetite.
| Food Cost | $5 to $10 |
Personality
They are intelligent, lively and friendly little dogs that can be a bit wilful at times. They will get on well with older children and many elderly people seem to favour this breed. They should be socialised from an early age, particularly with cats, as they will chase them given half a chance. They can be arrogant and very full of their own importance.
| Intelligence | The Norwich Terrier will learn quickly what is expected of it, but the training must be consistent as this terrier has a will of its own. |
| Energy | Medium |
| Suitability for Children | Medium |
| Tendency to Bark | Medium |
| Overall Exercise Requirement | This little terrier will adapt to life in the city but does prefer the country life. They love the outdoors and like nothing better than to be allowed to dig for hours. |
| Suitability as a Guard Dog | Low |
| Ease of Transportation | High |
| Level of Aggression | Medium |
| Other Animal Compatibility | Medium |
Grooming
Although the hard adult coat doesn’t appear until the puppy becomes an adolescent, grooming should be started at an early age: this terrier can object to being restrained due to its independent streak. The coat is relatively easy to keep in good condition and will need to be hand plucked twice a year. A profesional groomer or the breeder will be able to give advice on this.
| Grooming Requirements | Once a week |
| Amount of Hair Shed | Little |
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