GROUP: Terrier • ORIGIN: Great Britain • ORGINAL FUNCTION: Vermin Control • COAT: Medium • COLOR: Black, Tan, Wheaten & Gazzle • HEIGHT: 10 to 12 in • WEIGHT: 9 to 12 lb • LIFESPAN: 13-15 Years
Description:
The Norfolk Terrier is strong-willed, quite scrappy, and a true hunter at heart, with an endless wish to chase foxes and rabbits. Being a small breed, the Norfolk Terrier makes up in boldness for its lack in size.
Norfolk's are often friendly towards other household pets and dogs, as well as strangers. A lot of terrier breeds are reserved in the presence of strange people or animals, but that's not the case with a Norfolk Terrier who’s always on the hunt for new friends to enjoy playtime with.
History Of The Norfolk Terrier:
Past history of the Norwich Terrier and Norfolk Terrier is believed to be exactly the same. In the early stages of breeding, dogs where seen to have droopy ears (later to become Norfolk Terriers) and others with prick, or high-standing ears (which went on to be known as Norwich Terriers.). Each breed was created at the same time.
Both Terriers breeds where exhibited in show rings throughout the 1930's. Breeders attempted at one stage to cross-bred both types which didn't result in very promising results. Crossing the two breeds resulted in dogs with un-certain ear carriage, due to this the practice came to a stop.
The prick-eared (Norwich Terrier) went on the become the most common breed, with the droopy-eared (Norfolk Terrier) almost being wiped out at the time of WWII. The terries did recover in numbers with special effort from Miss Macfie.
Throughout the 1940's Miss Macfid helped recreated the Norfolk Terrier and in time their numbers started to return. In 1964, the terrier breeds were recognized as two individual breeds, with the same outcome following later in United States.
Norfolk Terrier Temperament:
Norfolk's are in need of ample exercise to use up their high energy levels. In view of its small size, exercise can be taken up with a play in a backyard or a short walk on a leash. Having access to a secure yard in the day is ideal as a Norfolk Terrier loves to hunt and explore.
Norfolk Terriers soon form a tight bond with their families, so should spend their time living inside with the rest of the family. Grooming consists of a good brushing once or twice a week to cope with the wiry coat.
Health Information:
Health concerns seen with a Norfolk Terrier include CHD and allergies, patellar luxation is seen rarely. Vets recommend that a Norfolk is checked for knee and hip problems.