Alert, sociable, and nimble, the Norfolk Terrier is aptly a loyal companion that likes to curl up in the lap. Despite its toy-dog-like qualities, it is a feisty and confident working terrier that has been regarded as a large dog in a small packet.
The Norfolk, with its cute and cuddly looks, gets along with almost everybody in any kind of living situation. From novice pet parents to experienced dog lovers, all of them will fall for its charms.
It does not, however, mean you can relax all day. If you can meet its exercise needs, you will have the best companion for life. Norfolks are also known for being good travelers, adaptable, portable, and always up for adventure.
English sportspeople produced a working terrier, including the prick-eared Norwich Terrier as well as the drop-eared type called the Norfolk Terrier
Frank Jones, a famous Irish breeder and horse rider, sold some of these short-legged terriers to the Americans
Recognized by the Kennel Club (England) as a distinct breed
It was officially accepted as a separate breed by the Canadian Kennel Club
Recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the United Kennel Club (UKC)
The Norfolk is an energetic dog that needs 20-30 minutes of vigorous long walks or play every day. You may also keep it active with a game of fetch in a fenced yard. Make sure to put it on a leash when taking it out, else its chasing instinct could kick in.
Its double coat contains a hard, wiry outer coat and a soft, downy undercoat that require moderate grooming. Although your Norfolk’s shaggy, unkempt look is part of its appeal, you need to brush its coat one or two times a week.
Unlike most terrier breeds, you need to shorten and shape your Norfolk’s coat by stripping with a comb-like tool. Family pets, however, do not necessarily need to be stripped.
Routine hygienic measures such as regularly brushing its teeth, frequently trimming its toenails, and weekly cleaning its ears should be followed.
Your Norfolk Terrier would do well on a quality dry dog food, be it the commercially manufactured or the one that is prepared at home. Make sure that its protein, carb, and fat contents are met well.
Treats are an important part of its training process, but be sure to keep them to the minimum, as your Norfolk is prone to obesity. When buying commercial food, brands like Hill’s Science and Blue Buffalo are the ones you can trust.
Norfolk Terriers were bred to hunt in packs and are typically more gregarious than most terriers. It may, however, have an occasional stubborn streak and challenge your limits, making housetraining difficult. Therefore, obedience training with a firm and positive technique is necessary.
Because of your dog’s strong prey drive, you should teach it to wear a leash when you take it to areas not securely fenced. Early socialization is recommended to help it become a well-adjusted family companion, especially if there are smaller pets like hamsters or ferrets in the household.
