Norwich Terrier

1 Breed Introduction

Norwich Terrier (detailed introduction)

The Norwich Terrier, also called the Norfolk Terrier or Norwich Terrier, was developed in early 20th-century England by Frank Jones in the Cambridge areas of Harlow and Norwich, using local working terriers, and was recognized by the English Kennel Club in 1932.

Initially they differed in type, size, color, coat and ear shape. The drop-eared ones were kept as Norwich Terriers while the cropped-eared formed a separate breed. In 1964 the English Kennel Club split them into two breeds: the drop-eared became the Norfolk Terrier, the cropped-eared the Norwich Terrier. It is a sporting terrier, not a toy.

The Norwich Terrier is one of the smallest working terriers, often used to catch rats and fond of hunting vermin.

2 Physical Characteristics

Norwich Terrier (detailed introduction)

The Norwich Terrier is small but brave, with substantial bone and a weight around 12 pounds; shoulder height roughly equals body length. Its expression is slightly cunning, making it a clever-looking dog. The eyes are small, dark, oval with black rims, moderately spaced, bright and keen. The ears are medium-sized and pointed; when alert they stand up.

The neck is medium length and strong; the topline level; the body short, compact and deep; the ribs well sprung and the loin short. For terrier work the tail needs some length, so docking leaves half.

The legs are short and powerful with thick pads and black nails. The coat is wiry, hard and straight, close to the body. The neck and shoulders form a protective ruff; the head, ears and muzzle have short smooth hair except for some brows and whiskers.

The Norwich Terrier has strong legs and a steady gait, looks relaxed walking, loves exercise and adapts well, making a great companion.

3 Temperament

Norwich Terrier (detailed introduction)

Its cunning look makes the Norwich Terrier seem clever indeed. It is lively and active, with a very good-natured, sociable temperament. Small but fearless, very loyal to its master, good-tempered and non-confrontational, it is quite endearing.

The Norwich Terrier is good-tempered and doesn’t hold grudges; even if scolded a bit harshly in training it won’t mind. Its adaptability makes it easy to keep; even in a strange place, given a little time, it quickly settles in.

4 Care and Grooming

Norwich Terrier (detailed introduction)

For a working dog like the Norwich Terrier, every part of its body matters and needs careful care. Teeth are important yet easily neglected; like people, without care a dog’s teeth develop problems. People brush daily, but dogs can’t. Cleaning dog teeth is laborious, but ignoring it leads to early tooth loss and various diseases.

At home you can regularly clean its teeth with a soft cloth dipped in water, or use a dog toothbrush between teeth and gums, but don’t scrub back and forth.

Also have the vet check and scale tartar regularly. Neglecting teeth leads over time to bad breath and even heart and kidney disease.

5 Feeding Guidelines

Norwich Terrier (detailed introduction)

For an active Norwich Terrier, some fat intake is needed to fuel exercise. Protein is key to life, so often give it pet milk (not regular cow’s milk) and some meat, but not too much; dog food should be the staple.

Because it loves exercise and may dart into bushes, its coat needs regular cleaning; otherwise fleas, lice and skin disease can develop.

When grooming, first comb against the coat with a rake to bring dirt to the surface, then comb with the coat to remove it. Small as it is, for the dog’s health do it patiently.