Norfolk Terrier
Great Britain, Small sized Terriers
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 24–26 cm
- Weight
- 5–6 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Bold
- Cheerful
- Sociable
- Curious
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Norfolk Terrier
The Norfolk Terrier is a small, hardy terrier from the eastern counties of England, originally used to bolt foxes and control vermin on farms. It has a wiry, weatherproof coat in red, wheaten, black and tan or grizzle, and drop ears, which distinguish it from the closely related Norwich Terrier. It is now kept chiefly as a companion.
Temperament
Bold, cheerful and sociable, it generally gets on with people and other dogs. It has a terrier's curiosity and may dig or chase. It responds well to positive training.
Exercise
Needs around an hour of daily exercise and enjoys sniffing and play. Secure fencing is wise.
Grooming
The wiry coat needs brushing weekly and hand-stripping a few times a year.
Care & wellbeing
Check drop ears regularly and keep teeth clean. Keep weight lean.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 5.5 kg adult- Water
- 220 ml–330 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 400 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 60–90 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Norfolk Terrier
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A small, drop-eared terrier from eastern England, once treated as a variety of the Norwich Terrier. It was bred for ratting and bolting foxes, and later became a popular companion. Today it is recognised as its own breed.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Heart disease
- Respiratory problems
- Eye conditions
- Knee problems
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Heart check
- Patella assessment
- Eye tests
Not every Norfolk Terrier is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Norfolk Terrier right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Norfolk Terrier get?
Adult Norfolk Terriers typically stand about 24–26 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 5–6 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Norfolk Terriers live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Norfolk Terrier need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Norfolk Terrier need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Norfolk Terriers easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Norfolk Terriers shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Norfolk Terriers good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Norfolk Terrier live in a flat?
Usually, yes — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Norfolk Terriers have?
The breed can be prone to heart disease, respiratory problems, eye conditions. Not every Norfolk Terrier is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Great Britain
- Type
- Small sized Terriers
- Internationally recognised
- 1966