GROUP 2 - TERRIERS

Brief History
About the middle of the 19th century a man known as "Doggy" Lawrence was breeding small red terriers (about 10 pounds in weight) which he sold mainly to Cambridge undergraduates. It is believed these dogs were the foundation of what are now known as Norwich and Norfolk Terriers. Norwich Terriers drop and prick-eared were officially recognised by the English Kennel Club in 1932. However, it was later decided to form two separate breeds, with the prick-ears to be Norwich Terriers, whilst the drop-ears would form the new breed to be known as Norfolk Terriers.

Average Life Span
When considering a dog, please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime. The average life span is 12 to 15 years.

Temperament
The Norfolk Terrier has a loveable disposition, is not quarrelsome and has a strong constitution. They are appealing, easily portable and cheap to feed. Active, with its origin as a working terrier, this breed does require exercise. A ratter par excellence and willing to go to ground, they can sublimate these primordial drives into bright, eager companionship that is never dull or boring. As a watchdog, the Norfolk Terrier will always let you know if someone arrives. However, they are not a guard dog, as friendliness is a dominant characteristic. The Norfolk must familiarise with small household pets early if he is to live harmoniously alongside them. Norfolks are a pack dog and will live happily with other animals.

General Breed description
The Norfolk is one of the smallest of the terriers and can be a 'demon' for its size. His rough coat can be red, wheaten, black and tan tor grizzle and tan. Although small and low, he is compact and strong with a short back, good substance and bone. The Norfolks ears fold forward and give it a softer expression than its cousin the Norwich. When Norfolk’s talk, they tend to ‘’roll their R’s’’!.

Coat and Care Requirements
The coat is hard, wiry and straight, lying close to the body with ruff on the neck. Head, ears and muzzle should be trimmed short and smooth, with slight eyebrows and whiskers. These weather resistant coats should be clipped or stripped twice a year to stop the coat shedding and can be maintained by tidying with fingers, brush and comb. Teeth and ears should be checked, and nails should be trimmed regularly. Norfolk are busy, inquisitive little dogs, they adore walks and thrive on exercise. Special care should be taken with the dog living in town, ensuring that the dog is on a lead when leaving the garden, which must be secure.

Size
Height: 25cms (10ins).

Health
All breeds have individual health issues. When speaking to breeders it is recommended you enquire about breed health and what health testing the breeder does.

Suitability
The Norfolk’s bright personality and handy size make it eminently suitable for families, for young and old alike, for small or large yards. The Norfolk Terrier is a fine family dog, a real presence in the house, and long lived.

In Conclusion
Now you know a little more about this breed. If you have decided this is the dog for you and wish to investigate further, please contact the Breed Club or Dogs Victoria. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog events where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs. With any breed of dog, it is important to research and determine suitability for your lifestyle before committing to a puppy which will be a part of your family for many years to come.

Whilst many breeds are recommended for families, it is imperative that when children are with dogs they are supervised at all times. Basic obedience training is a vital part of dog ownership.

Dogs Victoria is about the responsible ownership of all dogs and in particular the preservation of pure breeds.

Link to Dogs Australia Breed Standard: 

https://dogsaustralia.org.au/members/breeds/breed-standards/Norfolk-Terrier