The Norfolk Terrier

Appearance

Although the Norfolk is the littlest Terrier he is strong and compact. The Norfolk is not over exaggerated in any way. The Skull is broad and slightly rounded with neat ears that fold forward beside whiskery cheeks. His whiskery muzzle is shorter than the length of scull.

Eyes are oval shaped dark brown or black with decidedly keen expression. His tail carried is up and often over, pointing towards his head. He has a rough coat which must be combed and trimmed short in summer. It is any shade of red from wheat to rich red which may also have a black or grizzle (grey) saddle.

History

While terriers have been known in England since the time of the Norman Conquest, the Norfolk terrier evolved with the Norwich terrier, as one breed, when these dogs became the fad of undergraduate students at Cambridge University in the 1800s. These little dogs, all called Norwich, were cheap to feed and made great sport killing vermin in the dog pits of local pubs.

When the breeds actually split into the drop eared Norfolks and prick eared Norwich in 1969 subtle differences in character and conformation became more defined. Norfolks have bigger feet, more hind angulation and are less round. They mature more slowly are more independent and ask rather than demand.

Temperament

Norfolks are lovable, hardy and not quarrelsome though decidedly a ‘Demon’ for their size.

They have a particular manner of greeting and talking to humans they love, with a rolling gargle. They definitely roll their “R’s’’. Barking, which may be high pitched, is usually reserved for warnings and dog play.

Norfolks are enthusiastic companions happy to accompany you, supervise or interfere whether it’s walking or watching TV. They usually love water and will enjoy a run in the rain or a swim. With their hard, rough coats, they generally shake and dry in minutes. They can be obsessed by their favourite toy.

Care / Grooming

Norfolk coats are a mixture of soft hair for warmth and hard guard hair for strength. The coat tends to shed with a change of season so if trimmed or stripped at least twice a year, about March and September, you will avoid owning a dog that leaves hair on the couch! You can have this done professionally or learn to do this yourself. Of course regular combing and brushing will keep your dog tidy in between.

Nails must by trimmed regularly. Ears should be checked regularly and any discharge or smell requires a trip to the vet.

Health

Norfolks are relatively hardy, so regular worming and flea control is required. Norfolks are a breed that requires teeth care so be sure your dog has bones to chew and keep his teeth clean.

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