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What is a NORFOLK TERRIER?

General Appearance

A small, yet strong, robust dog with a compact body on short, stable running legs-a build with an altogether correct appearance. The head, with its short, square muzzle, dark eyes, and little overturned ears, presents a happy expression. The hair, course and wiry, which repels dirt and water, provides good all-weather protection. Also typical of the breed's look is the Norfolk ruff, a collar of longer, rougher hair that circles its neck. There is also a warming undercoat below the surface hair of the coat. Hair color is wheaten to reddish brown (technically designated as red), but Norfolks also come in black and tan with a blackish saddle on its back, and grizzle. An amusing characteristic of the dog is that it often stands boldly, like a ramrod, showing much emotion. Short and wiry, the Norfolk is often compared to a scrub brush without a handle-not a graceful racing dog-but still a successful product. Measurement at the shoulder should be 25 to 26 centimeters (9.8 to 10.2 inches) with a corresponding weight of 5 to 6 kg (11 to 13 pounds), but exceptions either way definitely occur.

History

The origin of Norfolk Terriers lies in England. In the 19th century, the dogs' ancestors were used on grain farms and in horse stables in East Anglia to hunt rats and mice. Students at Cambridge chose these dogs to create the regulation sport of rat hunting. After many years of breeding, a special type of terrier, known as the Drop Eared Norwich, was recognized by the British Kennel Club in 1932. In 1964, a separate set of standards was established for each of the two variations (the prick-eared Norwich being the other) with the drop-eared type being known ever since as the Norfolk Terrier.

Character

The charming and uncomplicated character of Norfolk Terriers not only lures the novice dog owner, but people who have had wonderful experiences with other breeds. Always alert, lighthearted and ready to play, they are, at the same time, comfortable to live with, easy to raise, and not confrontational with other dogs-a difference from many other terrier breeds. Norfolk Terriers are vigilant, but with no unnecessary yelping. They are gentle with children, but shouldn't, as with any living being, be treated like a child's plaything.

(picture: Elisabeth Matell)

Attitude

In contrast to larger dog breeds, Norfolk Terriers can be taken everywhere. They are small enough to be carried under an arm, in a knapsack, in a cabin airplane with you and hearty enough to be taken on long trips. They learn quickly. One can easily train them to become companion dogs for the home, working dogs for the field or show dogs. Also, they can be confined to small spaces for a short period of time as long as they have enough regular daily exercise to keep them fit. Two or more of these little imps can also be housed together as they are not quarrelsome. Whether a single constant companion or a family pet that brings joy to everyone in the home - men, women, children and the elderly fall in love with the Norfolk's charming disposition.

Coat Care

The rough coat needs no daily care other than an occasional grooming. Once or twice a year you should pluck out the dead hair using your thumb and forefinger. This trimming requires a learned feel, that with some interest can be self-taught. Exaggerated styling is not desired in this breed, as it would impair the natural appearance.

Game little terriers

The Norfolk Terrier will not be comfortable sitting for long periods of time on a parlor stool, nor is it a fashion dog to be strolled through city shopping areas, although Norfolks enjoy all kinds of activity. It is really a breed that truly enjoys tramping through forests and fields. If the inexperienced dog buyer knew what a robust yet sensitive dog these little firecrackers were, they might forgo more insensitive breeds.

How Does One Obtain a Norfolk Terrier?

This breed is still rare and somewhat unknown among some dog fanciers as few breeders choose to advertise in Norfolk specialty publications. If you would like to have a Norfolk Terrier, you should contact a breeder directly. But first, we suggest that you visit dog shows and NorfolkTerrier breeders in your area to ask about their dogs, what is needed for a Norfolk puppy's growing environment and whether, after you purchase a dog, the breeder will provide advice and consultation. If that breeder has had Norfolk Terriers for many years, her counsel should be invaluable to you.

Responsible breeders want to deliver puppies into loving and capable hands, so be prepared to answer questions about the type of home you will provide for your Norfolk Terrier.