Norfolk Terrier

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Living spaceApartment-friendly

  Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment12–16 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Mitral valve disease · Patellar luxation · Hip dysplasia

The Norfolk Terrier and the Norwich Terrier were a single breed until 1964, when they were separated on one criterion: the Norfolk has ears that drop forward, the Norwich has ears that stand up. Both are among the smallest of the working terriers, bred in East Anglia to bolt fox and control vermin, and both are far sturdier than their five kilograms suggests. The Norfolk's great advantage as a pet is sociability. Because it was bred to work in packs, it is unusually good with other dogs for a terrier, and it is friendly and outgoing with people and children. It is game, busy and fearless without being neurotic, and it makes a cheerful, portable companion for an active owner. It is still a terrier: it digs, chases small animals, barks at arrivals and has a mind of its own, so recall near wildlife is not reliable and the garden needs to be secure. Exercise is around forty-five minutes to an hour daily plus play. The hard wiry coat sheds little and needs combing weekly plus hand-stripping two or three times a year. The health point that distinguishes this breed is cardiac: mitral valve disease occurs at a notable rate, so buy from a breeder who has hearts checked and ask your vet to listen for murmurs at every annual visit. Also screen for patellar luxation and hip dysplasia, and keep up dental care, which small breeds need diligently.

• How much exercise does a Norfolk Terrier need?

  High. Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• How much grooming does a Norfolk Terrier need?

  Brush a few times a week. Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Is a Norfolk Terrier suited to apartment living?

  Apartment-friendly. Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Is a Norfolk Terrier a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Norfolk Terrier live?

  12–16 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Norfolk Terrier?

  Keep an eye out for Mitral valve disease, Patellar luxation, Hip dysplasia. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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