The Norwich Terrier is a small, sturdy, and compact dog with a wiry coat and distinctive prick ears.

Small, typically 10 inches tall at the shoulder.

Around 11-12 pounds.

Wiry, hard, and straight; requires regular hand-stripping.

Red, wheaten, black and tan, or grizzle.

Prick ears, set high on the head.

Traditionally docked to a medium length (where permitted), carried upright.

Alert and intelligent.

Norwich Terriers are known for their affectionate, fearless, and spirited personalities. They are intelligent and eager to please, but can also be independent.

Form strong bonds with their families and enjoy close companionship.

Bold and courageous, true to their terrier heritage.

Lively and energetic, always up for an adventure.

Quick learners, but can be easily bored with repetitive training.

Possess a degree of self-reliance, sometimes mistaken for stubbornness.

Generally good with people and other dogs, especially when socialized early.

Norwich Terriers are best suited for active individuals or families who can provide them with plenty of exercise, training, and companionship.

Intelligent and trainable with positive reinforcement.

Needs moderate daily exercise.

The ideal owner for a Norwich Terrier is someone who is active, patient, and willing to commit to their training and grooming needs. They thrive in homes where they are included in family activities and receive plenty of love and attention.

Norwich Terriers require regular grooming, including hand-stripping, a balanced diet, and a comfortable living environment.

Hand-stripping the coat several times a year to maintain its texture and appearance; regular brushing (2-3 times a week) to remove loose hair.

Only bathe when necessary, as over-bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils.

High-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.

Feed measured meals twice a day to prevent overeating.

Adaptable to various living situations, including apartments, provided their exercise needs are met.

Regular nail trims (every few weeks) to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.

Check and clean their ears regularly to prevent infections.

Norwich Terriers are relatively easy to train due to their intelligence, but require consistent, positive reinforcement. They need moderate daily exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Norwich Terriers respond best to positive reinforcement methods, such as praise, treats, and play. They are intelligent and eager to learn, but their independent streak can sometimes make them a little challenging. Short, engaging training sessions are most effective. Early socialization is crucial to ensure they develop into well-adjusted adults.

Despite their small size, Norwich Terriers have a good amount of energy. They need at least 30-60 minutes of exercise per day, which can include brisk walks, play sessions in a securely fenced yard, or interactive games. Mental stimulation is equally important; puzzle toys and training activities can help keep them entertained and prevent boredom.

Establish clear rules and boundaries from the start.

Use rewards-based training to motivate and encourage good behavior.

Expose your Norwich Terrier to a variety of people, dogs, and environments from a young age.

Provide plenty of mental stimulation to keep their active minds engaged.

Ensure your yard is securely fenced, as their terrier instincts may lead them to chase small animals.

Harsh training methods can damage their trust and spirit.

Norwich Terriers are generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions.

A neurological disorder that can cause seizures.

A condition where the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal position.

A malformation of the hip joint that can lead to arthritis and lameness.

Norwich Terriers can have narrow nostrils and/or an elongated soft palate, causing breathing problems.

The Norwich Terrier's history traces back to East Anglia, England, in the late 19th century. Initially, they were bred as ratters and fox bolters, highly valued for their ability to clear barns and stables of vermin. They are believed to be descendants of various terrier breeds, potentially including the Irish Terrier and the now-extinct Trumpington Terrier. For a time, Norwich and Norfolk Terriers were considered the same breed, differentiated only by ear carriage (prick ears for Norwich, dropped ears for Norfolk). The Kennel Club (England) recognized them as a single breed in 1932. The American Kennel Club followed, recognizing the breed in 1936. However, in 1979, the AKC officially recognized the drop-eared variety as a separate breed: the Norfolk Terrier. The UK Kennel club had done so in 1964.

Yes, Norwich Terriers are generally good with children, especially when raised with them. They are playful and affectionate, but supervision is always recommended with any dog and young children.

Norwich Terriers can be prone to barking, especially when alerted to something new or exciting. Early training and socialization can help manage this tendency.

Norwich Terriers need at least 30-60 minutes of exercise per day, including brisk walks, play sessions, and interactive games.

Hand-stripping is a grooming technique that involves removing dead hair from the coat by hand, rather than clipping it. This helps maintain the coat's texture and color.

Norwich Terriers are intelligent and relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement methods. However, they can be independent, so consistency and patience are key.

Generally, yes. Norwich Terriers usually get along well with other dogs, especially if they are socialized from a young age.

The average lifespan of a Norwich Terrier is 12-15 years.

No, Norwich Terriers are not hypoallergenic. However, they are relatively low-shedding, which may make them a better choice for people with mild allergies.

You can check with local animal shelters and rescue organizations, or search online for Norwich Terrier-specific rescues.

The primary difference is ear carriage: Norwich Terriers have prick (upright) ears, while Norfolk Terriers have dropped ears.