Norwich Terrier

Quick Take

• Many breeders label Norwich Terriers as hypoallergenic, though there is a catch that prospective owners rarely see coming. See grooming details →
• One grooming technique is non-negotiable for keeping a Norwich Terrier's coat healthy, and it is nothing like standard brushing. Explore hand stripping →
• Norwich Terriers were deliberately bred to be different from most terriers, and that one design choice shapes their entire personality. See how breeding shaped them →
• There's a specific reason why letting a Norwich Terrier exercise off-leash in an open space is riskier than it sounds. Understand the prey drive risk →

A Norwich Terrier is a small dog with a big personality. They are smart, energetic, and sometimes stubborn. This breed originated in rural East Anglia, England, in the late 19th century. They were bred to hunt rodents in a home or barn and chase them out. This terrier was also used in packs to hunt foxes, so they were bred to be more sociable than the standard terrier, which is generally very independent.

These canines are close relatives of the Norfolk Terrier and belong to the Terrier group. These spunky dogs are very loyal to their owners. Socialized Norwich Terriers are a good choice for families with children.

3 Pros And Cons Of Owning A Norwich Terrier

Size And Weight

These dogs are small with a double coat. A male can grow to be 10 inches tall at the withers, while a female can reach 9 inches tall. Males and females can weigh up to 12 pounds. At 9 weeks old, puppies weigh around 6 pounds and are considered fully grown at 8 months.

Norwich Terriers vs. Norfolk Terriers

Norwich Terriers are closely related to Norfolk Terriers, so they have a lot in common. For instance, these breeds are the same size. They share the same coat colors, including wheaten, black, tan, red, and grizzle. Both breeds require a similar grooming routine. Also, both dogs have about the same lifespan.

There are a few differences between the Norwich Terrier and the Norfolk Terrier. The Norwich Terrier has ears that stand up, whereas the Norfolk Terrier has ears that lie flat. Another difference is that a Norwich Terrier has a combination of wiry and soft hair, while a Norfolk Terrier’s coat has a mix of wiry and shaggy hair. While both breeds are similar in popularity, Norwich Terriers are sometimes more expensive than Norfolk Terriers, depending on the breeder and region. Of course, adoption is always an option for either of these breeds!

Common Health Issues

Norwich Terriers have some common health issues, including patellar luxation. A dog with patellar luxation essentially has a kneecap that has shifted out of place. Limping, hopping, and slow movement are all signs of this condition. The treatment for this issue depends on how severe it is. Some dogs simply need physical therapy, while others require surgery. A second health issue common to Norwich Terriers is epilepsy. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes seizures. Epilepsy can usually be managed with medication. Cataracts are another common health issue in older Norwich Terriers. Cloudiness in one or both eyes is a typical sign of cataracts. Surgery is sometimes needed to treat this eye condition.

Temperament And Behavior

The temperament of a Norwich Terrier is a mixture of boldness and intelligence. They have a feisty personality and love to chase squirrels, birds, and other animals they see in the backyard! One of their most beloved traits is loyalty. Norwich Terriers like to stay close to their owner.

These little canines are known for their energetic behavior. They were originally bred to find rats and other rodents, chase them from their holes, and get rid of them. So, they are fast dogs with excellent digging skills. A family searching for a lively, small dog with a friendly personality is likely to be pleased with a Norwich Terrier.

How To Take Care Of A Norwich Terrier

Understanding the diet, grooming, exercise needs, and health issues of a Norwich Terrier helps owners provide the best possible care. Consider a few specifics regarding the care of a Norwich Terrier.

The Best Dog Food

Norwich Terrier adults and puppies have different diets. Adjusting the diet of a Norwich Terrier as it ages can help to keep this dog in optimal health. Consider some factors in this dog’s diet.

Norwich Terrier puppy food: Protein is a fundamental nutrient in a puppy’s food. Protein supports developing muscles, tendons, and cartilage. Also, it contributes to healthy nails and a thick double coat for this breed. Fats provide Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, which support vision and brain development in puppies. Healthy eye development is especially important for a breed prone to cataracts. Fat also gives puppies energy to play and explore. Vitamin D is good for a puppy’s developing joints. Calcium strengthens bones and teeth.

Norwich Terrier adult dog food: Adults need protein in their diet to keep their muscles and joints strong. These small dogs need a limited amount of fat that supplies them with energy while not adding excess weight. Vitamins C and E are antioxidants that help with healthy cell development. Vitamin A contributes to healthy eyes and can help to fend off cataracts. Calcium contributes to strong teeth and bones in an adult Norwich Terrier.

Maintenance and Grooming

How much shedding does a Norwich Terrier do? Though these dogs are considered hypoallergenic, they do shed a small amount of hair. Prospective owners should keep this in mind when breeders advertise hypoallergenic Norwich Terriers.

The grooming routine of these dogs should include weekly brushing. A slicker brush is an excellent tool to help move through the thick double coat of this pooch. Be sure to get a slicker brush with plastic covers on the tips of the bristles. This protects the dog’s skin.

Hand stripping is recommended to keep these terriers’ coats looking healthy.

Redness, bald spots, or dry skin can all be signs of eczema in a Norwich Terrier. Weekly grooming can help owners identify skin conditions or signs of allergies.

Training

Training a Norwich Terrier is relatively easy. Though they are known as smart dogs, they can be stubborn. So, an owner should limit the training sessions to 15 or 20 minutes and have plenty of treats on hand for successful lessons.

Exercise

These dogs need 30 to 60 minutes of exercise each day. They have a lot of physical and mental energy that needs to be worked out. Taking them on a walk in the neighborhood, or playing fetch in a fenced yard or at a dog park are all good options. Norwich Terriers have a strong prey instinct. If they see a bird, chipmunk, or other animal, they are likely to give chase. Therefore, exercising this dog in an enclosed area or on a leash is safer.

Norwich Terriers are great for apartment living. They fit well into smaller spaces, and as long as they get enough exercise, they’re likely to be content.

Puppies

Like Norwich Terrier adult dogs, puppies need a safe place to exercise so they can explore without wandering into any dangerous situations.

Norwich Terrier and Children

Socialized Norwich Terriers get along well with children. When these dogs are around children from puppyhood, they learn how to interact with them.

Dogs Similar to Norwich Terriers

Dogs similar to Norwich Terriers include Cairn Terriers, Norfolk Terriers, and Border Terriers.

• Cairn Terrier: Cairn Terriers can have a black, red, or brindle coat like a Norwich Terrier. They are both loyal and smart dogs. Cairn terriers weigh a little more than Norwich Terriers.
• Norfolk Terrier: Norfolk Terriers and Norwich Terriers are a lot alike in terms of coat color, weight, and height. One physical difference is that the ears of a Norfolk Terrier lie flat, while the Norwich Terrier’s ears stand up.
• Border Terrier: A Border Terrier’s coat can be red, tan, black, or wheaten, like a Norwich Terrier’s. They are both expert diggers and are loyal to their owners. The Border Terrier weighs more than a Norwich Terrier.