History of the Norfolk Terrier Sheepdog Breed
The Norfolk terrier and Norwich terriers are closely related. In fact, they were considered one breed until 1964 in England and 1979 in America. The breed was developed from gypsy’s dogs and weaver’s pets to produce a terrier that had both dropped and prick ears and could hunt vermin. In the 1930s, around the time the breed entered the show ring, breeders stopped interbreeding the prick and dropped ear dogs to stabilized the offspring’s ear carriage. The dogs with prick ears were more populous, causing the dropped-ear variety’s numbers to decrease dramatically. By World War II, the dogs with dropped ears were almost extinct. Miss Macfie of the Colansays, however, kept the breed alive. Soon breeders were coming to her to reestablish the drop-eared dogs of Norwich. Today, the differences in the two breeds are evident. Norfolks are more jealous and excel at hunting and racing more so than their counterparts. They are angular in shape, while the Norwich is rounded. Both breeds are more sociable than other terriers and are the smallest of the working dogs. Today they retain their love of work, but also enjoy the companionship of their family as a popular pet.
Size and Appearance of the Norfolk Terrier Breed
The Norfolk terrier is a small, compact breed that is very similar to its counterpart, the Norwich terrier. The main difference between the two is that the Norfolk is a little longer than it is tall and has dropped, close-hanging ears. It has short legs and a tail that is docked. Its muzzle resembles that of a fox, and it has well-defined whiskers and eyebrows. Its expression, especially its eyes, reveals its intelligence. The Norfolk’s coat is hard and wiry with straight hair about 2 inches long – with a slightly longer ruff. Its hair is close lying, and it has an undercoat. The Norfolk comes in red, wheaten, black and tan or grizzle. Some members of the breed have white markings, however it is undesirable in the ring.
Norfolk Terrier Temperament
The Norfolk terrier exhibits the characteristics that are typical of a terrier: fearless, curious, independent, and willful. It is friendly with children and other pets. The Norfolk is never aggressive or nervous, however it may show signs of jealousy. It is extremely clever and may dig, bark, or misbehave if not entertained with toys. It can be difficult to housebreak.
Norfolk Terrier Recommended Maintenance
This light shedder requires regular brushing of its waterproof coat. Minimal clipping is needed, and it should be bathed as needed. Daily exercise is advised, but occasionally foregoing a workout won’t upset it. The Norfolk terrier was bred to work and is happiest when active. It will do okay in an apartment if it is taken out for daily walks. It does better with access to a yard, however it may dig in the flower gardens. This terrier can survive outside in temperate climates, but it enjoys its family too much to stay separated from them for long. It will remain active indoors and loves to track and hunt when outdoors. Do not use choke collars with this breed, as it has a sensitive trachea that can easily be injured. Training should be consistent for this quick learner.
Norfolk Terrier Health
• Life span: 13-15 years
• Major concerns: none
• Minor concerns: none
• Occasionally seen: cardiomyopathy, patellar luxation
• Suggested tests: (cardiac), (knee)
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