ALLEMAND
ESPAGNOL
FRANÇAIS
ITALIEN
NÉERLANDAIS
PORTUGAISNorfolk terrier
Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog norfolk terrier!
Here, you will find all the useful information about norfolk terrier. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.
Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.
Overall description of the breed
The Norfolk Terrier is a dog breed originating from the United Kingdom, specifically from the county of Norwich, located in the northwest of England. For many years, it has been used as a vermin hunter and excels in its role as a ratter. It first appeared in the mid-19th century, likely as a result of several crosses between Dandie Dinmonts, Glen of Imaal Terriers, and Red Terriers of Cain.
Endowed with remarkable efficiency in its work, the Norfolk Terrier is particularly valued for its determination and courage. Selected to hunt small animals, it has also been employed as a tracker for larger game such as foxes and wild boars.
Distinguished from its cousin the Norwich in the early 20th century, the breed was officially recognized by the Kennel Club in 1932, and later by the American Kennel Club in 1936. A few years later, the FCI definitively registered it on October 1, 1966, and its current standard was published on October 13, 2010.
The Norfolk Terrier falls into the category of small dogs, benefiting from a solid, compact, and rustic appearance. It is a formidable hunter, deeply committed to its work. Its height at the withers is equal to its body length, giving it a square appearance. Its musculature is powerful and energetic, and its topline is short, straight, extending into a thick tail of medium length.
Despite its small size, its chest is well developed, providing impressive strength due to its very low center of gravity. The head is proportional to the rest of the body, with a well-defined stop, a rounded skull, and broad jaws. Its medium-sized ears are V-shaped.
Its coat is medium-length, with a rough and tough texture. Longer fringes can be observed around the neck and shoulders, as well as abundant fur around the eyebrows and muzzle. Representative colors of the breed include black and tan, red, wheaten, or grizzle, with all their accepted nuances.
The careful selection of the Norfolk Terrier has transformed it into an extremely pleasant companion dog, gentle with its masters and family in general. Expressive and willing, it enjoys sharing moments of tenderness with loved ones, as well as participating in playful tracking or obedience activities.
Due to its particularly developed hunting instinct, it is recommended to socialize it from a young age with small animals to moderate its hunting tendencies. If you're considering acquiring a Norfolk Terrier for hunting, you'll be charmed by its physical capabilities and incredible tenacity when on a mission. It's a dynamic animal that needs to expend its energy daily to maintain balance and remain calm indoors. The lack of regular exercise could lead it to mischief.
Terrier-type dogs generally struggle with solitude, and this holds particularly true for the Norfolk Terrier, which requires frequent contact with humans. Its greatest fear is being neglected by loved ones. It will do its best to please you, being faithful and loyal. Its ease of learning makes it an ideal companion for both adults and children.
The adult weight of the Norfolk Terrier will be around 5 kg (11 lbs), and its height at the withers will be about 25 cm (10").
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Origins
The Norfolk Terrier is a breed of dog originating from Norfolk County in England. Developed in the 19th century, this small terrier was mainly used for hunting vermin and foxes. Local breeders crossed various terriers to obtain a robust, courageous dog adaptable to farms and hunting. Over time, the Norfolk Terrier gained popularity not only for its hunting skills but also for its friendly and lively nature, making it a popular companion for many households.
History
The history of the Norfolk Terrier dates back to the 19th century, when it was developed in Norfolk County, England. Initially used for hunting foxes and pests thanks to its small size, agility, and courage, local breeders crossed various terriers to create a tough and efficient dog. In 1964, the Norfolk Terrier was officially recognized as a separate breed from the Norwich Terrier, with which it had previously shared a common history. Since then, it has been appreciated for both its hunting skills and its affectionate and sociable nature.
Standard
The Norfolk Terrier breed standard describes a compact and sturdy dog. Males and females measure around 25 cm at the withers and weigh between 5 and 5.5 kg. Their coat is harsh, straight and of medium length, offering effective protection against the weather. The most common colors include red, wheaten, black and tan, and grizzle. The head is slightly rounded with a broad skull and oval, dark and expressive eyes. The ears are small, V-shaped and drop forward. The tail is traditionally docked, but the practice is becoming less common.
Physical characteristics
The Norfolk Terrier is a sturdy little dog, measuring about 25 cm at the withers and weighing between 5 and 5.5 kg. It has a rough, straight coat of medium length, often in red, wheaten, black and tan, or grizzle color. Its head is slightly rounded with a broad skull and oval, dark, lively eyes. The V-shaped ears fall forward, adding to its alert and intelligent expression. The tail, once often docked, is now generally left natural. Its compact, muscular appearance reflects its energetic and tenacious nature.
Character
The Norfolk Terrier is known for its lively, courageous, and affectionate nature. Despite its small size, it has a big personality and endless energy. It is an intelligent and curious dog, always ready to explore and play. Loyal and devoted, it forms close bonds with its family and is particularly good with children. Its terrier instinct can make it somewhat independent and sometimes stubborn, but with consistent and positive training, it is easy to train. The Norfolk Terrier is also sociable and can get along well with other pets.
Life expectancy
The life expectancy of the Norfolk Terrier is generally 12 to 15 years. This figure is quite common for small dogs, who tend to live longer than larger breeds. A balanced diet, regular veterinary care, and adequate exercise are essential to maximize its lifespan. Owners should also be attentive to signs of aging and common illnesses for this breed, such as dental problems or heart conditions, and take preventive measures to maintain their dog's health and vitality throughout its life.
Exercise and activity needs
The Norfolk Terrier is an energetic dog that requires daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. Despite its small size, it loves long walks, ball games, and outdoor activities. One hour of exercise per day, divided into several sessions, is recommended. Interactive games and training sessions are also beneficial to stimulate its lively mind. Due to its hunting instinct, a well-fenced garden is ideal to allow it to expend energy safely. Without sufficient activity, the Norfolk Terrier may become destructive or develop undesirable behaviors.
Recommended diet
The Norfolk Terrier needs a balanced and high-quality diet to maintain its health and energy. Premium dry food specially formulated for small breeds is recommended. Portions should be adjusted based on age, weight, and activity level. Monthly food costs for a Norfolk Terrier can range between 20 and 40 euros. It is important to avoid weight gain by controlling portions and limiting treats. Fresh, clean water should always be available to ensure proper hydration.
Training and obedience
Norfolk Terrier education should start as soon as possible with a consistent and positive approach. Intelligent and eager to please, he responds well to positive reinforcement methods such as rewards and praise. However, his natural independence and energy can make some training sessions a bit difficult. It is important to establish clear rules and follow them consistently. Early socialization is crucial to teach him to behave well with other dogs and people. With patience and perseverance, the Norfolk Terrier can become a well-behaved and obedient companion.
Behavior with children
The Norfolk Terrier is generally excellent with children thanks to its affectionate and playful nature. It is patient and tolerant, making it well suited for homes with young children. However, due to its small size and energy, it is important to supervise interactions to avoid any unintentional accidents. Children should be taught to handle the dog gently and with respect. With proper socialization and training, the Norfolk Terrier can become a loyal and protective companion for children, sharing many moments of play and affection with them.
Compatibility with Other Animals
The Norfolk Terrier can get along well with other pets if properly socialized from a young age. Its hunting instinct may sometimes lead it to chase small animals, but with gradual introduction and proper supervision, it can live harmoniously with cats and other dogs. It is important to monitor the initial interactions and reinforce positive behaviors to ensure a good relationship. Overall, the Norfolk Terrier is sociable and enjoys the company of other animals, but each individual may have their own preferences and temperaments.
Grooming needs
The Norfolk Terrier's coat requires regular maintenance to keep it healthy and clean. Weekly brushing is recommended to remove dead hair and prevent knots. Approximately two to three times a year, hand stripping is necessary to maintain the coat's texture. Baths can be given occasionally, using dog-appropriate products to avoid stripping the natural oils from the coat. It is also important to regularly check and clean the ears, brush the teeth, and trim the nails to prevent infections and other health issues.
Health
The Norfolk Terrier is generally a robust breed, but like all dogs, it may be prone to certain health issues. Common concerns include dental problems, luxating patellas, heart diseases, and some eye conditions. A balanced diet, regular veterinary care, and adequate exercise are essential for maintaining overall health. Regular veterinary check-ups can help detect and treat health issues early, ensuring a better quality of life for the Norfolk Terrier. Genetic testing can also help identify and prevent hereditary diseases.
Average price
The average price of a Norfolk Terrier puppy can vary depending on the breeder, lineage, and geographic location. Generally, the cost ranges between 1000 and 2000 euros. Choosing a reputable breeder who adheres to ethical standards and responsible breeding practices, including health tests for parents, is crucial. While the initial expenses may seem high, they often reflect the quality care and attention given to the health and well-being of the puppies. It is also advisable to check the medical history of the parents to avoid hereditary issues.
Expenses
Annual expenses for a Norfolk Terrier can vary, but on average, you should budget around 800 to 1200 euros (approximately 900 to 1300 dollars). This includes high quality food, regular veterinary care, grooming products, and accessories such as collars, leashes, and toys. Costs may increase in case of health problems requiring specialized veterinary care. It is also recommended to take out pet health insurance to cover any unforeseen expenses and ensure peace of mind.
Name ideas
Choosing a name for your Norfolk Terrier can reflect its lively and cheerful personality. Here are some suggestions: Charlie, Bella, Max, Daisy, Jack, Rosie, Milo, Ruby, Oscar, and Luna. Charlie is a classic and friendly name, Bella means beautiful, perfect for an elegant female. Max and Jack are strong and sturdy names, ideal for a brave terrier. Daisy and Rosie are sweet and cheerful, while Milo and Oscar add a touch of charm. Ruby and Luna evoke beauty and light, perfectly suited for a loyal and loving companion.
Legislation and regulation
The Norfolk Terrier is generally not subject to any specific restrictive legislation in most countries. However, it is always recommended to check local regulations regarding dog ownership and breeding, especially regarding vaccination, microchipping, and licensing. In France, this breed is not part of the categories of so-called dangerous dogs, which simplifies ownership. Owners should inform themselves of local laws to ensure full compliance and avoid any legal issues, thereby ensuring a harmonious cohabitation with their canine companion.
Official recognition
The Norfolk Terrier is officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) under standard No. 272. In France, it is also recognized by the Société Centrale Canine (SCC). In the United States, the breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), and in the United Kingdom, it is recognized by the Kennel Club (KC). This recognition by the main worldwide cynological organizations helps to promote and preserve the breed standards across the globe. Official breed clubs play a crucial role in maintaining the characteristics and health of Norfolk Terriers.
Pedigrees
Pedigrees for Norfolk Terriers can be obtained from various breed clubs and canine organizations. In France, the French Terrier Club (CFT) provides information and pedigrees for this breed. In the United States, the American Kennel Club (AKC) registers Norfolk Terriers and provides certified pedigrees. In the United Kingdom, the Kennel Club (KC) plays a similar role. These clubs and organizations ensure the purity of the lineage and compliance with breed standards, facilitating participation in dog shows and responsible breeding programs.
Destination and usage
The Norfolk Terrier is primarily intended to be a companion dog, although it retains its hunting instincts. Its small size, boundless energy, and affectionate character make it an excellent companion for families, singles, and the elderly. In addition to its domestic life, the Norfolk Terrier can participate in terrier activities such as hunting vermin and small game. It also excels in canine sports such as agility and obedience, thanks to its intelligence and natural agility. In summary, it is a versatile and loving dog.
Prohibitions
To this day, the Norfolk Terrier is not banned in any country. However, it is always important to check local regulations regarding dog ownership, especially concerning terrier breeds. Some countries or regions may have specific laws regarding hunting dogs due to health and safety concerns. It is essential for potential owners to inform themselves about local requirements for ownership, vaccination, sterilization, and animal control to ensure legal and responsible ownership.
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