Norfolk Terrier
Terrier

Group:

Terrier

Size:

small

Lifespan:

13-15 years

Exercise:

moderate

Grooming:

moderate

Trainability:

hard

Watchdog ability:

very high

Protection ability:

very low

Area of Origin:

England

Date of Origin:

1800’s

Other Names:

none

Original Function:

Ratting, fox bolting

History

The Norfolk Terrier shares an identical early history with the Norwich Terrier. During the development of these breeds, both prick and drop ears were seen, and neither could lay claim to being more authentic or original than the other. In the 1930s, soon after their entry into the show rings, breeders found that crossing the two types of ear carriage resulted in uncertain ear carriage in the offspring, so they began avoiding crossing the two ear types. The prick-eared type was more numerous; in fact, the drop-eared type almost vanished during World War II. The drop-eared strain owes its existence to the single-handed and determined efforts of Miss Macfie of the Colansays. In the 1940s, breeders came to her to renew breeding the drop-eared type of Norwich, and they soon caught up with the prick-eared type in popularity, although not in show awards. Eventually, amid some controversy, the breed was officially changed from one breed with two varieties to two separate breeds.

Temperament

The Norfolk Terrier is a spunky energetic dog and is always in the mood to play, especially with children. The Norfolk Terrier loves being a part of the family. This breed will dig if not given something to occupy its quick mind.

Upkeep

The Norfolk Terrier needs an exercise outing every day, either a short to moderate walk or a lively and boisterous play session. It especially likes to hunt and investigate, but it must do so in a safe area. Even though it could live outside in temperate to warm climates, it is such a family-oriented dog that it is emotionally unsuited for outdoor living. It does best as a house dog with access to a yard. Its wire coat needs combing once or twice weekly, plus stripping of dead hairs three to four times yearly.

Official Breed Standard

CHARACTERISTICS:
The Norfolk Terrier is one of the smallest of the Terriers, but a "demon" for its size. Of a lovable disposition, not quarrelsome, with a hardy constitution. Temperament alert and fearless.

GENERAL APPEARANCE:
A small, low, keen dog, compact and strong with short back, good substance and bone. Honourable scars from fair wear and tear should not be penalised unduly.

Head and Skull:
Skull wide and slightly rounded with good width between the ears. Muzzle wedge-shaped and strong; length of muzzle slightly less than half the length of skull. Stop should be well defined.

Eyes:
Oval shaped and deep set, in colour dark brown or black. Expression alert, keen and intelligent.

Ears:
Size medium, V-shaped but slightly rounded at tip, dropping forward close to the cheek.

Mouth:
Tight lipped, jaw strong; teeth strong and rather large; scissor bite.

Neck:
Medium length and strong.

Forequarters:
Clean and powerful shoulders with short powerful and straight legs.

Body:
Compact with short back, level topline, well-sprung ribs.

Hindquarters:
Well muscled, good turn of stifle, hocks well let down and straight when viewed from rear; with great powers of propulsion.

Feet:
Round with thick pads.

Tail:
Medium docked, not excessively gay.

Coat:
Hard, wiry and straight, lying close to the body. It is longer and rougher on the neck and shoulders. Hair on head and ears short and smooth, except for slight whiskers and eyebrows.

Colour:
All shades of red, red wheaten, black and tan or grizzle. White marks or patches are undesirable but shall not disqualify.

Size:
Ideal height 25.4 cm (10 in) at withers.

Faults:
Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness of the fault should be in exact proportion to its degree.

Note:
Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum.