History of occurrence
The Norfolk Terrier shares an identical early history with the Norwich Terrier. During the development of these breeds, both prick and drop ears were seen, and neither could lay claim to being more authentic or original than the other. In the 1930s, soon after their entry into the show rings, breeders found that crossing the two types of ear carriage resulted in uncertain ear carriage in the offspring, so they began avoiding crossing the two ear types. The prick-eared type was more numerous; in fact, the drop-eared type almost vanished during World War II. The drop-eared strain owes its existence to the single-handed and determined efforts of Miss Macfie of the Colansays. In the 1940s, breeders came to her to renew breeding the drop-eared type of Norwich, and they soon caught up with the prick-eared type in popularity, although not in show awards.
Eventually, amid some controversy, the breed was officially changed from one breed with two varieties to two separate breeds.
General form
A small, low, keen dog, compact and strong with short back, good substance and bone. Honourable scars from fair wear and tear should not be penalised unduly.
Отличительная особенность породы Norfolk Terrier
Head and skull: skull wide and slightly rounded with good width between the ears. Muzzle wedge-shaped and strong; length of muzzle slightly less than half the length of skull. Stop should be well defined.
Eyes: oval shaped and deep set, in colour dark brown or black. Expression alert, keen and intelligent.
Ears: size medium, V-shaped but slightly rounded at tip, dropping forward close to the cheek.
Mouth: tight lipped, jaw strong; teeth strong and rather large; scissor bite.
Neck: medium length and strong.
Body: compact with short back, level topline, well-sprung ribs.
Forequarters: clean and powerful shoulders with short powerful and straight legs.
Hindquarters: well muscled, good turn of stifle, hocks well let down and straight when viewed from rear; with great powers of propulsion.
Feet: round with thick pads.
Customarily docked to a medium length, not excessively gay.
Coat: hard, wiry and straight, lying close to the body. It is longer and rougher on the neck and shoulders. Hair on head and ears short and smooth, except for slight whiskers and eyebrows.
Colour: all shades of red, red wheaten, black and tan or grizzle. White marks or patches are undesirable but shall not disqualify.
True, low and driving. Moving straight forward from shoulder. Good rear angulation showing great powers of propulsion. Hindlegs follow track of forelegs, moving smoothly from hips. Flexing well at stifle and hock. Topline remaining level.
Character
The Norfolk Terrier is a spunky energetic dog and is always in the mood to play, especially with children. The Norfolk Terrier loves being a part of the family. This breed will dig if not given something to occupy its quick mind.
Maintenance care
The Norfolk Terrier needs an exercise outing every day, either a short to moderate walk or a lively and boisterous play session. It especially likes to hunt and investigate, but it must do so in a safe area. Even though it could live outside in temperate to warm climates, it is such a family-oriented dog that it is emotionally unsuited for outdoor living. It does best as a house dog with access to a yard. Its wire coat needs combing once or twice weekly, plus stripping of dead hairs three to four times yearly.
Lifespan — 13-15 years.
Dignity
Small, yet sturdy and tough -- not a delicate lapdog.
Has a natural appearance.
Needs only moderate exercise.
Makes a keen watchdog.
Doesn't shed too much.
Co-exists with other pets more willingly than some other terriers.
Difficulty keeping
The dynamic terrier temperament.
Timidity when not socialized enough.
Aggression toward other animals — chasing instincts.
Stubbornness.
Digging holes.
Barking.
Regular brushing and clipping of the wiry coat.
A considerable number of potential health problems.
Diseases
The Norfolk Terrier is susceptible to minor health issues like allergies, and serious conditions like canine hip dysplasia (CHD). It also may occasionally suffer from patellar luxation. To identify some of these issues early, a veterinarian may recommend hip and knee tests for dogs of this breed.
