Norfolk Left - Norwich Right
Temperament These small but hardy teddy bears are courageous, remarkably intelligent and wonderfully affectionate. They can be assertive but they are never aggressive or quarrelsome. They are energetic and thrive on an active life but won't be any worse for wear if they miss a day's exercise now and then. Both Norfolk and Norwich are big dogs in a little dog's body...and nobody has told them! They are easy to train and eager to please but Norfolk do it for a reward and Norwich do it to please you. Norfolk say, "What is in it for me?" and Norwich "What can I do for you?" Both Norfolk and Norwich look for human leadership to provide the house rules...or they may rule the roost. They are both sensitive but 100% Terrier. They should never be kept outside or in a kennel setting because they love the companionship of their owners too much. Neither Norfolk or Norwich are yappy but they will warn of a stranger approaching. When brought in to the home as a puppy they quickly accept other pets and love children. Males often make the best companions though are a little more sensitive to changes in routine than females. Most important is that neither Norfolk or Norwich have a road sense and hence need to be kept on lead when there are being walked. Norfolk may have greater concentration and hence are formidable as ratters. Norfolk are very food oriented. They are also good swimmers. Norfolk can be more jealous than Norwich. Norwich seem to prefer the company of humans over other dogs, though they readily accept their heritage of being pack dogs. These are generalizations. We have Norfolk who think they are Norwich and vice versa.
Health There are some incidences of health issues in both breeds that are considered worthy to do preventative testing. Responsible breeders offer health guarantees. Responsible breeders do genetic testing precisely to make responsible decision in their breeding programmes. Breeders that don't test don't know what health issues they are dealing with and likely don't care. That said, for Norfolk, there are incidences of mitral valve disease, luxating patellas, hip dysplasia and bad bites. For Norwich there are incidences of epilepsy, narrow tracheas, luxating patellas, hip dysplasia and bad bites. For more detailed definitions of these health concerns click here.
Height & Weight The ideal height is 10 to 12 inches ( 25-30 cm) at the withers and weight is about 12 pounds (5 Kg). They are the smallest of the terriers.
Grooming These breeds have two coats - a harsh, wiry topcoat and a soft warm undercoat. All that is really necessary is a good combing and brushing once a week to remove the loose, dead hairs and prevent matting. The coats should be hand stripped once in the Fall and once in the Spring. Clipping or cutting ruins these coats beautiful colours and texture. You can wash this coat with a doggie shampoo any time it is desirable.
