The Norfolk Terrier and the Norwich Terrier Idaho

The Norfolk Terrier and the Norwich Terrier are 2 spirited breeds that share a common ancestry and differ only in the carriage of their ears.  They have small, sturdy bodies, docked tails, and short, wiry, weather-resistant coats with minimal shedding.  They are lovable, hardy, active, feisty, curious, good with children, and affectionate with their owners.  They are initially aloof with strangers and can be dog-aggressive.  Because of their terrier instincts, both have a high prey drive toward small animals and should be kept an eye around cats, birds, and pet rodents.  They make excellent watchdogs and bark with the best of them.  They are intelligent but can be stubborn and will initially resist training.  They also have the tendency to be easily distracted and would need a firm and consistent training method as well as socialization from puppy hood.  Spoiling them could incite obnoxious and snippy behavior.  Although some consider the Norwich is slightly more outgoing than the Norfolk, there is no apparent difference between the two breeds.

Size:  The Norwich Terrier and the Norfolk Terrier stand 9-10in at the shoulder and weigh between 10-12lb.

History and origin:  These 2 breeds were developed in 19th century for use as ratters.  Controversy exists as to whether Colonel Vaughan of Ballybrick, Southern Ireland, or Mr. Jodrell Hopkins, a horse dealer from Trumpington, Cambridgeshire England deserves credit for founding these breeds.  Colonel Vaughan hunted in the 1860s with small red terriers that have evolved from the Irish Terriers.  Because of outcrosses, terriers with drop and prick ears were developed.  On the other hand, Mr. Hopkins owned a female terrier whose litter came to the hands of his employee, Frank Jones and was crossed with other terriers, including the Irish and the Glen of Imaal Terrier.  The puppies were known as “Jones” or “Trumpington” Terriers.  Before 1964, the Norwich and the Norfolk Terrier were recognized as 1 breed by the British Kennel Club.  In 1946, the Norwich gained independent status as the prick-eared variety of the two.  In the United States, both prick-eared and drop-eared varieties were known as the Norwich Terrier until January 1st, 1979, when separate breeds were recognized.

Feeding:  Recommended feeding for these breeds would be ½ -1 can of high-quality meat product (13.3oz size) with biscuit added in equal amount or 1 ½ cups of a complete dry food.  Increase the amount if the dog is in hard exercise.

Exercise:  The Norwich Terrier and the Norfolk Terrier can adapt to apartment living as long as they get their exercise several times a day.  They are active, energetic dogs who love brisk walks and running.

Grooming:  Their short and wiry coat requires periodic brushing and an occasional trim.