Basic Information To Know About The Norfolk Terrier

The Norfolk Terrier is a small but sturdy terrier breed that is closely related to the Norwich Terrier - having been considered the same breed at one stage - and features short ears that hang closely by the head with a wiry red, wheaten, black and tan or grizzle coat that sheds almost no hair. The breed has origins dating back to the early 1900s, and they were first bred for the main purpose of hunting rats.

A few of their most recognizable features include bold and feisty manner, occasional stubbornness, love for children and their hypoallergenic coat - which help make the Norfolk Terrier a suitable choice for more patient owners or families as well as people suffering from allergies.

During their early history the Norfolk Terrier was considered to be a drop-eared variety of the Norwich Terrier and both were considered the same breed before being separated by breeders in the 1930s. Both breeds were created in England and the Norfolk Terrier was mainly chosen for the purpose of hunting rats. They are
believed to be a result of crossing local and Irish terrier breeds.

Norfolk Terriers are classed as a small-sized dog. The recommended standard size for the Norfolk Terrier male is 9-10 inches high from paw to shoulder and a weight of 11-12 pounds.

The Norfolk Terrier is well-known for their bold, loyal, feisty and often stubborn temperament. They are generally friendlier than most terriers with strangers, which can make them unsuitable as a guard dog.

The Norfolk Terrier is also known to be fairly intelligent - ranking equal 56th compared to other dogs based on their ability to learn obedience commands. They are also known to be good with children when raised with them - making them quite suitable as a family pet. The Norfolk Terrier is usually compatible with other dogs and cats that they're raised with though may not get along with smaller animals like hamsters, mice or birds due to their natural prey instinct.

The Norfolk Terrier doesn't always need a yard to run around in, so they can be quite suitable for apartment living if they are exercised enough.

The Norfolk Terrier enjoys activities such as chasing after a ball or simply running around the yard. They have a high level of energy and need to be given daily exercise in the form of moderate walks or short jogs to prevent behavioral habits like excessive barking or digging that they may be more inclined to start when left alone or with a lot of energy.

The Norfolk Terrier can make the perfect dog for an active owner or family and their non-shedding coat makes them one of the most popular breeds for allergy sufferers. They are suitable for anyone who is willing to commit to a small amount of grooming and take time to give them patient housebreaking and positive obedience training as well as take them for moderate daily walks while being kept on the lead and give a very high amount of companionship and attention. Though they might be somewhat unsuitable around smaller animals and as a consequence for being safely let off the lead while out in public, if you are able to meet their demand for regular loving care and patience while training them then the Norfolk Terrier could make the ideal dog breed for you.

HeartMyDog.com is an online magazine written by dog lovers for dog lovers that covers a wide variety of topics such as dog training, dog health and advice on dog breeds such as information on Norfolk Terrier information.