Caution!
Norwich Terriers are habit forming!
Norwich Terrier Breed Information
History of the Norwich Terrier
The Norwich and Norfolk Terriers originally started out as one breed in their native England but in America, terrier authority William Ross Proctor suggested separate classes for each ear type in 1962. The AKC fo
llowed suit in1979. The most easily distinguished trait between the two breeds is the ears. Norwich Terriers have prick ears (think: witches hat) and Norfolk Terriers have folded or drop ears. That is certainly not the only difference between the two breeds but for most people it is the easiest trait to recognize. The two breeds were originally developed in England as small ratting dogs. Due to their small size and ability to easily get in and out of burrows, they were later used to bolt foxes that had gone to ground during a fox hunt, so the horses and hounds could resume the chase. As they were bred to hunt in packs, the Norwich and Norfolk Terrier tend to be more social than many other terriers. Today the Norwich and Norfolk serve primarily as companion dogs but they can (and will) still take care of vermin.
Terrier comes from the Latin word “terra” which means “earth.”
These youngsters already know
what being a terrier means!
Norwich Terrier Breed Description
NOTE: Purebred Norwich Terriers are NEVER solid black or brindle. To better understand coat color in Norwich Terriers, please visit the very informative website, Coat Colors in Norwich Terriers.
Norwich Terrier Personality
Alert, feisty, devoted, charming, and loving - this describes the Norwich Terrier. These little terriers are outgoing and brave, assertive, but not aggressive. Some are one-person dogs, but all want to be included in family life and activities. They need consistent rules and basic obedience training. They will dog and bark if left outside for long periods of time.
Norwich Terrier Behavior
The Norwich Terrier is good with children when they have been raised with them. They are friendly and seem to love most everyone. They are intelligent and very trainable but they can be stubborn - they are after all, terriers! The Norwich Terrier can be moderately dominant so should be handled by someone with some dog experience. This little pack terrier is good with other pets and is generally not dog-aggressive. The Norwich Terrier, like all dogs, will bark when excited.
Grooming & Physical Needs of the Norwich Terrier
Regular grooming is needed. The Norwich Terrier should be hand stripped to maintain the correct coat. The coat
will become light in color and soft, if cut with clippers or scissors. With a correct coat, shedding should be light. This small, hardy terrier does need moderate, daily exercise.
Longevity
The Norwich Terrier is moderately long lived - about 12 - 15 years on average.
Extra Notes
Norwich Terriers love toys, especially the kind that squeak. They should not be trusted with other pets such as rabbits or pocket pets! In some instances, they can be difficult to housebreak. Due to their high prey drive, they should not be allowed off leash except in a secure/fenced area.
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