Terrier group
Norwich Terrier
A tiny prick-eared terrier with a huge, happy personality.
Norwich Terriers are small, sturdy, prick-eared terriers with a cheerful, fearless nature. They are affectionate and adaptable companions but remain keen hunters with a love of digging.
- Height
- 10 in25–25 cm
- Weight
- 11–12 lb5–5 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 years
- Size
- Small
- Group
- Terrier
- Origin
- East Anglia, England
Coat: Hard, wiry, straight 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
Norwich are happy, affectionate and loyal. They are usually good with people and other dogs and enjoy being involved in family life.
They have strong hunting instincts and can be independent. Secure fencing and supervision around small pets are important.
Living with a Norwich 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 Norwich Terrier right for you?
Take the Breed Fit quiz to see how a Norwich 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 Norwich Terrier typically lives 12–15 years. These are the conditions most associated with the breed — not a prediction for any individual dog.
Upper airway syndrome
Some Norwich have narrowed airways causing noisy breathing; avoid heat and overexertion.
Patellar luxation
Loose kneecaps occur in small breeds.
Hip dysplasia
Reported more often than expected for a small breed.
Epilepsy
Seizures occasionally occur in the breed.
Ask a breeder for
- Hip evaluation
- Patella evaluation
- Cardiac examination
- Eye examination
Sources: OFA CHIC breed requirements: Norwich Terrier; Norwich Terrier Club of America. 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
Norwich Terriers were bred in East Anglia as ratters and fox bolters. In the 1880s they became fashionable with Cambridge University students, earning the name “Cantab terriers”.
The breed was recognised by the AKC in 1936. The drop-eared variety was separated as the Norfolk Terrier in 1964 in the UK and 1979 in the US.
Did you know?
- Norwich Terriers were mascots for Cambridge University students in the 1880s.
- Norwich have prick ears, unlike the drop-eared Norfolk.
- Despite weighing about 12 lb, Norwich were bred to bolt foxes from their dens.
Library guides for Norwich Terrier owners
Training
Come (Recall)
High chase drive makes a reliable recall essential.
Exercise & Play
Dog Walking
Getting daily walks right for a Norwich Terrier.
Grooming
Nail Clipping
Every dog needs regular nail care.
New Dog Owners
How to find a reputable dog breeder
What to ask a Norwich 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
- Norwich vs Norfolk Terrier?
- The main difference is the ears: Norwich have prick ears and Norfolks have drop ears.
- Are Norwich Terriers good family dogs?
- Yes — they are affectionate and adaptable.
- Do Norwich Terriers shed?
- Very little.