Norfolk Terrier
Country/Date of Origin: England/19th Century
The working terrier of East Anglia was developed in the 19th Century, but there wasn't much uniformity of type until 1923 when the dogs were given the name Norwich Terrier and accepted into the English Kennel Club. Originally both the prick eared and drop eared varieties were called Norwich Terrier and both appeared in the same litter. However, in 1979, at the request of breeders of the drop eared variety who were disgruntled because judges most often gave championship points to the prick eared variety, the American Kennel Club reclassified the breed. The prick eared variety retained the Norwich name and the drop eared variety was dubbed Norfolk Terrier. Game and hardy, the little earth terriers were used as house and stable vermin exterminators. Carried in saddle bags they were taken on fox hunts to drive the fox from its lair when the hounds had forced it to ground. Norwich were often around horses and to this day the breed retains a special affinity for the species equine.
Other Names Body Type Personality Coat Health Concerns
Back to TopCantab Terrier, Jones Terrier, Trumpington Terrier
AKC Group: Terrier
Breed Club: Norwich & Norfolk Terrier Club
Rescue Club: Norwich & Norfolk Terrier Club Rescue
Back to TopBody Type:
- A sturdy short-legged "go to ground" terrier with drop ears and a tiny tail
- Height: 10 inches (at shoulder)
- Weight: 11-12 pounds
- Small, rounded drop ears are not altered
- Tail which is carried stiffly erect is usually docked
Personality:
- One of the most personable of all dogs
- An excellent watchdog
- A sturdy, friendly little fellow who loves to join in children's games
- A perfect demon when ratting, the Norwich is not overly quarrelsome in everyday life
Coat:
- Hard, wiry double coat
- Shades of red, wheaten, black and tan or grizzle are allowed
- Requires hand stripping to maintain the proper coat textured
Health Concerns:
- Generally healthy constitution
- Subject to dry skin problems if kept in the house
Tasty Tidbits:
|