Norwich Terrier Breed description: Character & Co
Norwich Terrier
Facts & Origin
The Norwich Terrier is a British small terrier and closely related to the Norfolk Terrier.
The origin of the Norwich Terrier
Norwich and Norfolk Terriers both originated in the eastern English county of Norfolk. The capital of the area is Norwich. Thus, at the same time and from the same founding animals, a city dog and a rural variety developed. In appearance both dogs are similar until today.
The original ancestors are not further named small terrier, which were popular rat and mouse catchers. During the 19th century, the small dogs were rediscovered and they became popular pets.
The actual breed is said to go back to two animals. The red-haired male "Rags" was a cross between Irish, Yorkshire and Aberdeen Terriers. Bitch "Ninety" was a white mongrel bitch that originated from the Dandie Dinmont and smooth-haired Fox Terrier.
As an independent breed the Norwich Terrier exists since 1964. Quickly the sugar-sweet dogs reached the USA and were bred there with own lines since 1979.
The breed characteristics of the Norwich Terrier
The Norwich Terrier is a very small and low-running terrier. In former times it was considered as an excellent housemate even in narrow cities. He didn't take up much space, kept the house free of rats and mice, and reliably reported intruders.
Today, this lovable breed is a happy companion for families, singles, or even seniors.
The FCI lists the Norwich Terrier under Standard 72, Group 3, Section 2: Lowland Terriers.
- very small terrier from the east of England
- closely related to the Norfolk Terrier
- great dog for families, individuals or seniors
| Alternate Name | - |
| Origin | UK |
| Life expectancy | 10 - 16 years |
| Care requirements | low-maintenance |
| Activity level | average |
| FCI group | Small sized Terriers |
| AKC group | Terrier Group |
| KC group | Terrier Group |
Attitude, character and temperament of the breed
Character traits and nature of the Norwich Terrier
Norwich Terriers are bold fellows and always ready for fun. They are neither pushy nor overexcited. They love to play and to be petted. They take their job as watchdogs very seriously. Nevertheless, this uncomplicated dog hardly tends to bark. This makes it the perfect companion even for smaller city apartments.
You still need to give the mini bundle of energy regular exercise. They are nimble and quickly learn a trick or two. They are usually calm and curious with other dogs of the same species.
- very sociable small terrier
- hardly barks
- also suitable as a city dog in the apartment
Character
Usage
Health and breeding information
Breeding, acquisition and keeping of the Norwich Terrier
The attitude of this dog is absolutely uncomplicated. It can certainly stay alone for a few hours, but not all day.
If you want to buy a Norwich Terrier puppy, you have to search a little bit. These animals are rare in our country. The prices for a healthy puppy with pedigree start at a minimum of 1000 Euro and can go up to 1600 Euro.
Appearance and coat of the Norwich Terrier
The clearest distinguishing feature between the Norfolk and Norwich Terriers are the ears. In the Norwich Terrier they stand erect and in the Norfolk variety they are tilted. The head appears large, broad and expressive due to the dense coat.
The rest of the body is compact and low-set. They are sturdy without being fat or overweight. With their short legs they can run like lightning. The coat is medium long rough and wiry. It comes in red, wheat, black with tan, and gray with white. This dog carries its tail pointed or slightly curled over the back.
- small, compact and well proportioned
- has erect ears
- medium length rough coat
Height, weight and life expectancy of the Norwich Terrier
The height at the withers of both sexes is about 25 cm. The weight reaches 5 to 7 kg.
A Norwich Terrier can live up to 16 years.
| Fur length | medium |
| Fur | rough-haired |
| Ear shape | Standing Ears |
| Tail | short |
| Anatomy | rugged |
| Size ♀ | 24 - 26 cm |
| Weight ♀ | 5 - 7 kg |
| Size ♂ | 23 - 24 cm |
| Weight ♂ | 5 - 7 kg |
| Suitable For | Seniors |
Colors
Other small dogs
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