Norfolk Terrier
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Description:
The Norfolk Terrier is a small and active
dog. He is sturdy, compact and fearless
- yet never aggressive. The Norfolk Terrier
is one of the smallest working terriers
developed in England as a ratter and to
hunt foxes. He was originally known as a
Norwich Terrier, but as a separate variety
with the most notable difference being his
dropped ears. The other variety - which
is known today as the Norwich Terrier breed
has pricked ears. England officially recognized
these two as separate breeds in 1964 and
the American Kennel Club did so in 1979.
Over the years, the Norfolk Terrier and
the Norwich Terrier have developed into
two very distinct breeds.
Norfolk Terriers are charming, affectionate
and thrive on human companionship.
Height:
The height of the Norfolk Terrier at maturity
is approximately 10 inches (25cm). Female
Norfolk Terriers are usually slightly shorter.
Weight:
The AKC breed standard weight for the Norfolk
Terrier is 11-12 pounds (5 -5½ kg).
for the majority of these dogs.
Coat Type:
Norfolk Terriers have a double coat. The
straight, harsh and wiry outer coat is protective
and the undercoat is soft and dense. The
length is approximately between 1½
to 2 inches long. The Norfolk Terrier's
coat lies close to the body. While no trimming
is required for the Norfolk Terrier, it
should be tidied - particularly the top
of the head, elbows, around the feet and
the tail.
Color: According
to the AKC, Norfolk Terriers can be "All
shades of red, wheaten, black and tan, or
grizzle." In addition, the AKC states
"dark points permissible" and
"white marks are not desirable."
Temperament:
The Norfolk Terrier is fearless, courageous,
energetic and affectionate. He is never
aggressive, instead the Norfolk Terrier
has a characteristic balanced and easy-going
temperament. The Norfolk Terrier is a loyal
companion and excellent with children. He
is exuberant and playful. The Norfolk Terrier
is generally easy to train and responds
best to positive methods. Norfolk Terriers
do not like to be left outside for long
periods - they thrive on human companionship.
If left outside for a long time, they may
become bored and dig or bark excessively.
The Norfolk Terrier should be taken on daily
walks or for outdoor play. This breed does
well with other pets in the household, although
he should be supervised with smaller animals
such as hamsters, gerbils or guinea pigs
as he may view them as vermin prey.
Health Concerns:
The Norfolk Terrier is a generally
a very healthy breed. The average life span
of a Norfolk Terrier is between 12 - 15
years.
Special Interest:
• The Norfolk Terrier is among one
of the smallest working terriers.
• The American Kennel Club officially
recognized the Norfolk Terrier as a separate
breed in 1979.
Classifications:
AKC: Terrier Group
ANKC: Group 2 - Terriers
CKC: Terriers
FCI: Group 3 - Section 2 Small Sized Terriers
KC: Terriers
NZKC: Terriers
UKC: Terriers
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