What is the temperament of a Norfolk Terrier?

Norfolk Terriers are known to be self-confidence, fearless, spirited, companionable, happy, lovable, affectionate, couch, friendly, gentle, quiet, sweet, nice, submissive, loving. This combination of traits makes them excellent companions for families with children. Their temperament is influenced by both genetics and proper socialization from an early age.

How much exercise does a Norfolk Terrier need?

Norfolk Terriers are high-energy dogs requiring 60+ minutes of vigorous daily exercise and mental stimulation.

How often should I groom my Norfolk Terrier?

Norfolk Terriers require intensive grooming with daily brushing and regular professional grooming sessions.

How do I train a Norfolk Terrier?

Norfolk Terriers may require extra patience during training and respond best to positive, consistent methods.

Are Norfolk Terriers good with children?

Norfolk Terriers are excellent with children. Their natural patience, gentle nature, and resilience make them outstanding family dogs. They typically form strong bonds with children and tend to be forgiving of the occasional accidental rough handling that can occur with younger kids. Remember that proper socialization and teaching children appropriate interaction with dogs are always important, regardless of breed.

What makes the Norfolk Terrier unique compared to other dog breeds?

The Norfolk Terrier stands out from other breeds due to its tiny, compact size, rich heritage from Grossbritannien und Nordirland, specialized abilities for ratting, fox bolting. This unique combination of characteristics makes them special among dog breeds and appeals to owners who appreciate these distinct qualities. Understanding these traits helps provide appropriate care tailored to their specific needs.

What should I know before getting a Norfolk Terrier?

Before bringing a Norfolk Terrier into your home, potential owners should consider: They have high exercise requirements (4/5) and need an active owner. Their coat requires significant maintenance (5/5) with regular grooming sessions. They typically excel in family environments with children (5/5 child-friendliness). They can be challenging to train (2/5) and are better suited for experienced dog owners. Additionally, researching reputable breeders or rescue organizations is essential for finding a healthy, well-socialized Norfolk Terrier. Understanding these factors will help ensure a good match between the breed and your lifestyle, leading to a happy relationship for both you and your dog.

What were Norfolk Terriers originally bred for?

Norfolk Terriers were originally bred for ratting, fox bolting. As part of the Terrier group, they share characteristics with other breeds developed for similar purposes. Understanding your Norfolk Terrier's breeding heritage helps explain many of their natural behaviors and instincts, which can be channeled appropriately through training and enrichment activities. Even though modern Norfolk Terriers are primarily companions, these inherent traits remain part of their genetic makeup.

How long do Norfolk Terriers typically live?

The average lifespan of a Norfolk Terrier is 12 - 15 years. With proper care including quality nutrition, regular veterinary check-ups, appropriate exercise, and preventative healthcare, some Norfolk Terriers may live beyond this range. Genetics, environment, and healthcare all play important roles in determining longevity.

← Back to Breeds

Advertisement space

Norfolk TerrierImage not available

More Norfolk Terrier Photos

Sidebar advertisement

Norfolk Terrier

Written by Dr. Sarah Johnson, Veterinary Consultant

Published: January 15, 2024 • Last updated: December 18, 2025

Temperament

Self-confidence, Fearless, Spirited, Companionable, Happy, Lovable, Affectionate, Couch, Friendly, Gentle, Quiet, Sweet, Nice, Submissive, Loving

Weight

11 - 12 lbs

Height

9 - 10 inches

Life Span

12 - 15 years

Breed Group

Terrier

Bred For

Ratting, fox bolting

Origin

Grossbritannien und Nordirland

In-content advertisement

Additional Characteristics

Good with Children5/5

Good with Other Dogs5/5

Trainability2/5

Energy Level4/5

Grooming Needs5/5

Care Requirements

Exercise Needs4/5

They are high-energy dogs that need significant daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Grooming Requirements5/5

They have very high maintenance coats requiring daily brushing and regular professional grooming.

Trainability2/5

May require extra patience during training

Good with Children5/5

They are excellent with children and often form strong bonds with them.

Good with Other Dogs5/5

🐕 Norfolk Terrier Guide

📚 Explore comprehensive information about this breed

Overview

About the Norfolk Terrier

The Norfolk Terrier is a wonderful dog breed with unique characteristics.

Breed Purpose

Ratting, fox bolting

Temperament

Self-confidence, Fearless, Spirited, Companionable, Happy, Lovable, Affectionate, Couch, Friendly, Gentle, Quiet, Sweet, Nice, Submissive, Loving

How We Find Similar Breeds

We analyze breed characteristics including temperament, size, appearance, and care needs to identify the most similar dog breeds. This helps you discover alternatives that might be a good match for your lifestyle and preferences.

More Norfolk Terrier Photos

Norfolk Terrier

Temperament

Weight

Height

Life Span

Breed Group

Bred For

Origin

Frequently Asked Questions

Additional Characteristics

Care Requirements

About the Norfolk Terrier

Breed Purpose

Temperament

Breeds Similar to Norfolk TerrierSimilar to Norfolk Terrier

How We Find Similar Breeds