Terrier group
Norfolk Terrier
A tiny, fearless drop-eared terrier with a sunny disposition.
Norfolk Terriers are among the smallest working terriers, with drop ears and a wiry coat. They are affectionate, sociable and adaptable, but keep a strong hunting instinct.
- Height
- 9–10 in23–25 cm
- Weight
- 11–12 lb5–5 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–16 years
- Size
- Small
- Group
- Terrier
- Origin
- East Anglia, England
Coat: Wiry, straight, weather-resistant coat. Colours: Red, Wheaten, Black and tan, Grizzle.
At a glance
Ratings describe typical dogs of the breed on a 1–5 scale. Individual dogs vary with lines, upbringing and training.
Temperament
Norfolks are cheerful, confident and loving. They are usually friendly with people and other dogs, and less scrappy than many terriers.
They are fearless hunters with strong prey drive and a love of digging. Secure fencing and supervision around small pets are important.
Living with a Norfolk Terrier
Exercise
About 45–60 minutes of walks and play daily. Always use a lead or secure area.
Grooming
Brush weekly and hand-strip a couple of times a year. Low shedding.
Training
Willing but independent; short, reward-based sessions work best.
Kids & other pets
Good with children and usually with other dogs. Unsafe with rodents.
Time alone
Prefers company and may bark or dig when bored. Build alone time gradually and provide chews and puzzles.
Home fit
Adapts well to apartments and smaller homes when daily needs are met.
Is a Norfolk Terrier right for you?
Take the Breed Fit quiz to see how a Norfolk Terrier matches your home, schedule and tolerance for shedding, barking and exercise — or find out which breed matches your personality with Dogsona.
Health
With good breeding and care, a Norfolk Terrier typically lives 12–16 years. These are the conditions most associated with the breed — not a prediction for any individual dog.
Mitral valve disease
A heart valve disease seen in older Norfolks; cardiac screening is recommended.
Patellar luxation
Loose kneecaps occur in small breeds.
Hip dysplasia
Reported more often than expected for a small breed; screened parents help.
Eye disease
Cataracts and other eye conditions occur; eye exams are recommended.
Ask a breeder for
- Cardiac examination
- Patella evaluation
- Hip evaluation
- Eye examination
Sources: OFA CHIC breed requirements: Norfolk Terrier; Norfolk Terrier Club. This is general information, not veterinary advice — talk to your vet about your own dog.
Cost to own
After the first year, expect roughly $1,000–$2,000 a year for food, routine vet care, preventives, insurance and supplies (US estimate).
- Pet insurance for a puppy typically runs $30–$60 a month; premiums rise with age and breed risk.
History
Norfolks and Norwich Terriers developed together in East Anglia as small ratters and fox bolters. For years they were one breed with either drop or prick ears.
The Kennel Club separated the drop-eared Norfolk from the prick-eared Norwich in 1964, and the AKC followed in 1979.
Did you know?
- Norfolks and Norwich Terriers were one breed until 1964.
- Norfolks have drop ears; Norwich have prick ears.
- They are among the smallest working terriers.
Library guides for Norfolk Terrier owners
Training
Come (Recall)
High chase drive makes a reliable recall essential.
Exercise & Play
Dog Walking
Getting daily walks right for a Norfolk Terrier.
Grooming
Nail Clipping
Every dog needs regular nail care.
New Dog Owners
How to find a reputable dog breeder
What to ask a Norfolk Terrier breeder about health screening.
New Dog Owners
The real cost of a puppy: what to budget before you bring one home
Budget for the first year and beyond.
Similar breeds
Frequently asked questions
- Norfolk vs Norwich Terrier?
- The main difference is the ears: Norfolks have drop ears and Norwich have prick ears.
- Are Norfolk Terriers good family dogs?
- Yes — they are affectionate, sociable and adaptable.
- Do Norfolk Terriers shed?
- Very little.