What is the temperament of a Norwich Terrier?

Norwich Terriers are known to be hardy, affectionate, energetic, intelligent, active, affection motivated, eager to please, food motivated, leans in, seeks affection, quick learner, silly playful, playful, funny, happy. 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 Norwich Terrier need?

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

How often should I groom my Norwich Terrier?

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

How do I train a Norwich Terrier?

Norwich Terriers are highly trainable and typically respond well to positive reinforcement methods.

Are Norwich Terriers good with children?

Norwich 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 Norwich Terrier unique compared to other dog breeds?

The Norwich Terrier stands out from other breeds due to its tiny, compact size, rich heritage from England, 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 Norwich Terrier?

Before bringing a Norwich 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're typically highly trainable (4/5) and eager to learn. Additionally, researching reputable breeders or rescue organizations is essential for finding a healthy, well-socialized Norwich 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 Norwich Terriers originally bred for?

Norwich 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 Norwich 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 Norwich Terriers are primarily companions, these inherent traits remain part of their genetic makeup.

How long do Norwich Terriers typically live?

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

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Norwich Terrier

Written by Dr. Sarah Johnson, Veterinary Consultant

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

Temperament

Hardy, Affectionate, Energetic, Intelligent, Active, Affection Motivated, Eager to Please, Food Motivated, Leans in, Seeks Affection, Quick learner, Silly Playful, Playful, Funny, Happy

Weight

11 - 12 lbs

Height

10 inches

Life Span

12 - 15 years

Breed Group

Terrier

Bred For

Ratting, fox bolting

Origin

England

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Additional Characteristics

Good with Children5/5

Good with Other Dogs5/5

Trainability4/5

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.

Trainability4/5

Highly trainable and quick to learn commands

Good with Children5/5

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

Good with Other Dogs5/5

🐕 Norwich Terrier Guide

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Overview

About the Norwich Terrier

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

Breed Purpose

Ratting, fox bolting

Temperament

Hardy, Affectionate, Energetic, Intelligent, Active, Affection Motivated, Eager to Please, Food Motivated, Leans in, Seeks Affection, Quick learner, Silly Playful, Playful, Funny, Happy

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.

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Norwich Terrier

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About the Norwich Terrier

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Temperament

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