Terrier group · Small

Norfolk Terrier

Drop-eared sibling of the Norwich — same brave personality, smaller voice.

Apartment FriendlyLow SheddingFamily DogFirst-Time OKFearlessSpiritedCompanionable

Puppy.College Rating85/ 100

Weight

11–12 lbs

Height

9–10 in

Lifespan

12–16 years

Exercise

60–90 minutes/day

Origin

Multiple regions historically

First-time owner

5/5

Overview

Drop-eared sibling of the Norwich — same brave personality, smaller voice.

The Norfolk Terrier is a small breed in the Terrier group, typically standing 9–10 in and weighing 11–12 lbs. Expect a lifespan of 12–16 years with good preventive care. Personality is best described as fearless, spirited, companionable.

Breed history & origin

The Norfolk Terrier traces its origins to Multiple regions historically. Its original purpose — dispatch vermin on farms and in cities — shaped almost every physical and temperamental trait still visible in the breed today.

As a small member of the Terrier group, the Norfolk Terrier was selectively bred for biddability and quick learning, high stamina, and working drive. Modern owners describe them as fearless, spirited, companionable — qualities deeply rooted in that working heritage.

The breed is recognised by all major kennel clubs in the Terrier group, with a written standard codifying its silhouette, gait, and temperament.

Today the Norfolk Terrier thrives as a spirited companion. It remains one of the more recognisable breeds at North American dog shows and in homes across Canada and the United States, where its combination of fearless and family-suitability continues to draw new owners every year.

Like every purebred, the Norfolk Terrier carries genetic risks tied to its small founding gene pool. Conscientious modern breeders screen for the conditions listed in the health section below and breed for longevity, structural soundness, and stable temperament — the three pillars of a responsibly preserved breed.

Origin snapshot

Country of origin: Multiple regions historically
Era: Historic
Original purpose: Dispatch vermin on farms and in cities
Modern purpose: Spirited companion

Breed timeline

Historic
Norfolk Terrier develops in Multiple regions historically
20th century
Formal kennel club recognition in the Terrier group
Today
Established as a spirited companion

Appearance

Male

Height

9–11 in

Weight

12–13 lbs

Female

Height

8–9 in

Weight

10–11 lbs

Coat length: Medium
Coat texture: Tight single coat
Undercoat: None / minimal
Body: Compact, agile build

Temperament

Norfolk Terriers are fearless, spirited, companionable. With early socialization and positive-reinforcement training in the critical 8–16 week window, they grow into well-adjusted adults that fit a wide range of households.

Exercise & activity

Adult Norfolk Terriers need 60–90 minutes/day, split between leashed walks and off-leash play. Under-exercised dogs of this breed are the #1 source of behaviour complaints — chewing, barking, and pulling.

Grooming & shedding

Brush 2–3 times a week and bathe monthly. Most owners can do basic upkeep at home.

Minimal shedding — one of the cleaner breeds to live with.

Nutrition guide

Feed a high-quality small-breed puppy formula with calorie-dense kibble in tiny pieces. Norfolk Terrier puppies thrive on 3 measured meals per day until 6 months, then 2 meals. Look for AAFCO statements naming "growth" or "all life stages," and skip filler-heavy grocery brands.

Puppy nutrition

Feed an AAFCO-approved small-breed puppy formula. 3 meals/day until 6 months, then 2/day.

Adult nutrition

Adult Norfolk Terriers do well on a high-quality kibble (≥ 25% protein, ≤ 15% fat) split into two meals. Free-feeding is the #1 cause of obesity in this breed.

Senior nutrition

From age 8, transition to a senior formula with glucosamine/chondroitin and reduced calories.

Daily calories (adult)

350–600 kcal/day

Common allergies: Most common triggers in this breed: chicken, beef, dairy, wheat. A novel-protein diet (duck, salmon, venison) helps if itching or GI issues persist.

Never feed:

• Grapes & raisins
• Chocolate
• Onions & garlic
• Xylitol (peanut butter labels!)
• Cooked bones
• Macadamia nuts

Training guide

Housebreaking

Crate-train from day 1. Norfolk Terrier puppies can hold their bladder roughly (age in months) hours — set a timer and take them out after every nap, meal, and play session.

Crate training

Use a crate just large enough to stand and turn around. Never use it as punishment. Most Norfolk Terriers accept the crate within 2 weeks with kong-and-meal pairing.

Obedience

Norfolk Terriers are eager learners — start sit, down, place, and recall in week 1. Aim for 5-minute training reps, 3–5x per day.

Socialisation

Critical window is 8–16 weeks. Aim for 100 new people, 50 new dogs, and 25 new environments before 4 months — vaccinated, controlled, positive exposures only.

Advanced training

Ready for AKC Canine Good Citizen by 12 months, then trick titles, agility, rally, or scent-work.

Common mistakes to avoid

×Skipping puppy class because the dog ‘seems fine’
×Using punishment for fear-based behaviour (escalates it)
×Repeating the cue word — say it once, then enforce
×Free-feeding (kills food motivation for training)

Health database

Lifespan: 12–16 years. Below are the conditions vets most commonly screen for in this breed — for education only, always consult your veterinarian.

Hip dysplasia risk

Lower than average

Elbow dysplasia risk

Low

Eye disease risk

Standard screening recommended

Cancer risk

Average

Dental risk

Elevated — small breeds prone to crowding and tartar

Annual vet cost

$400–$700 CAD

Common health concerns

▸Dental disease
▸Obesity (over-feeding)
▸Patellar luxation

Recommended screening

▸Patella evaluation
▸CERF / OFA eye exam
▸Cardiac auscultation
▸Annual blood panel

Educational only — always consult your veterinarian.

Living requirements

Apartment: Excellent
House: Yes — ideal
Urban: Strong
Rural / farm: Strong
Cold weather: Average — needs a jacket below freezing
Hot weather: Tolerant
Barking level: Above average
Separation anxiety: Above average — bred for human company
Escape risk: Average
Space: Apartment-friendly

Cost of ownership (Canada)

Reputable Canadian breeders typically charge $1,500–$2,800 for a Norfolk Terrier puppy. Plan for $1,600–$2,600 in annual cost of ownership covering food, vet visits, insurance, training, and grooming.

Puppy purchase

$1,500–$2,800

Annual all-in

$1,600–$2,600

Insurance

$45–$90 / month CAD

Pros & cons

Pros

+Excellent with children and other family pets
+Quick to learn — fast progress on obedience and tricks
+Adapts well to apartments and condo living
+Low shedding — easier on furniture and allergies
+Great hiking, running, and adventure companion
+Travel-friendly size; fits under airline seats and in small homes

Cons

−Requires the time and commitment any puppy demands

Ideal owner profile

First-time ownersFamilies with kidsActive / outdoorsy ownersApartment & condo dwellers

Fun facts

1.Norfolk Terriers live 12–16 years on average with good preventive care.
2.Adults stand 9–10 in and weigh 11–12 lbs.
3.Daily exercise needs: 60–90 minutes/day.
4.Classified in the Terrier group.

Norfolk Terrier vs popular breeds

Trait	Norfolk Terrier	Labrador Retriever	Golden Retriever	German Shepherd	French Bulldog	Poodle (Standard)
Size	Small	Large	Large	Large	Small	Large
Lifespan	12–16 years	11–13 years	10–12 years	9–13 years	10–12 years	10–18 years
Energy	4/5	5/5	4/5	5/5	2/5	4/5
Trainability	4/5	5/5	5/5	5/5	3/5	5/5
Family-friendly	5/5	5/5	5/5	4/5	4/5	5/5
Apartment	5/5	2/5	2/5	2/5	5/5	3/5
Shedding	2/5	4/5	4/5	5/5	3/5	1/5
Exercise	60–90 minutes/day	60–90 minutes/day	60–90 minutes/day	60–90 minutes/day	20–40 minutes/day	60–90 minutes/day

Frequently asked

Norfolk Terrier — 30 questions answered.

Are Norfolk Terriers good family dogs?+

Yes — Norfolk Terriers score 5/5 for family friendliness and are widely considered one of the better breeds for households with children.

Are Norfolk Terriers good for first-time owners?+

Yes — they rank 5/5 for first-time suitability.

How much exercise does a Norfolk Terrier need?+

How much does a Norfolk Terrier puppy cost in Canada?+

Reputable Canadian breeders charge $1,500–$2,800 for a well-bred Norfolk Terrier puppy. Adoption through breed-specific rescues runs $400–$900.

What's the annual cost of owning a Norfolk Terrier?+

Plan for $1,600–$2,600 CAD per year covering food, vet care, insurance, training, and grooming.

Do Norfolk Terriers shed a lot?+

Minimal shedding — one of the cleaner breeds to live with.

Are Norfolk Terriers hypoallergenic?+

No — Norfolk Terriers shed dander and hair like most breeds. ‘Hypoallergenic’ is a myth; severity varies by individual.

How long do Norfolk Terriers live?+

Typical lifespan is 12–16 years. Lean body weight and routine vet care add years.

What health problems are Norfolk Terriers prone to?+

Most commonly: Dental disease, Obesity (over-feeding), Patellar luxation. Buy from a breeder who screens for these and provides documentation.

Are Norfolk Terriers good apartment dogs?+

Yes — they adapt well to apartments when exercised daily.

How often should I groom my Norfolk Terrier?+

Brush 2–3 times a week and bathe monthly. Most owners can do basic upkeep at home.

How smart is a Norfolk Terrier?+

Norfolk Terriers rank 4/5 for trainability — well above average. They learn new cues in 5–15 repetitions.

Are Norfolk Terriers good with kids?+

Yes — patient and tolerant with children, especially when raised together. Always supervise toddler interactions.

Are Norfolk Terriers good with cats and other dogs?+

Generally yes, when socialised from puppyhood.

Can Norfolk Terriers be left alone?+

Norfolk Terriers bond closely with their people; 4 hours alone is a reasonable maximum for adults. Build alone-time slowly to prevent separation anxiety.

Do Norfolk Terriers bark a lot?+

Yes — Norfolk Terriers are vocal. Early ‘quiet’ training and enrichment reduce nuisance barking.

How big do Norfolk Terriers get?+

Adults typically stand 9–10 in and weigh 11–12 lbs.

What should I feed a Norfolk Terrier puppy?+

Feed an AAFCO-approved small-breed puppy formula. 3 meals/day until 6 months, then 2/day.

How many calories does an adult Norfolk Terrier need?+

Roughly 350–600 kcal/day for an average-activity adult. Active or working dogs need 20–40% more.

When does a Norfolk Terrier stop growing?+

By 9–12 months.

How do I housebreak a Norfolk Terrier?+

Crate-train from day 1. Norfolk Terrier puppies can hold their bladder roughly (age in months) hours — set a timer and take them out after every nap, meal, and play session.

Do Norfolk Terriers do well in cold weather?+

Average — needs a jacket below freezing

Do Norfolk Terriers tolerate hot weather?+

Tolerant

Are Norfolk Terriers good guard dogs?+

Yes — natural protective instincts and an imposing presence make them good watchdogs.

Do Norfolk Terriers like water and swimming?+

Variable — small breeds are at higher risk in water; use a life jacket.

Can Norfolk Terriers do agility or dog sports?+

Yes — excellent sport prospects in agility, rally, dock diving, and obedience.

Are male or female Norfolk Terriers better?+

No meaningful temperament difference at the breed level — individual personality, socialisation, and training matter far more than sex.

Should I get pet insurance for a Norfolk Terrier?+

Strongly recommended. Expect $45–$90 / month CAD for accident & illness coverage.

What questions should I ask a Norfolk Terrier breeder?+

Health clearances on both parents (hips, elbows, eyes, cardiac as applicable), the right to return the dog at any age, contract terms, references from previous puppy buyers, and a meet-and-greet with the dam.

Where can I adopt a Norfolk Terrier in Canada?+

Start with breed-specific rescues on Petfinder.ca and the Canadian Kennel Club's breed club referrals, then check provincial humane societies.

What's the difference between Canadian, American, and European Norfolk Terrier lines?+

Bloodlines differ in size, structure, and working drive. North American show lines are typically larger and calmer; European working lines are leaner and drivier. Ask the breeder which lines they breed and why.

Norfolk Terrier curriculum