Norfolk TerrierClose relative
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Norwich Terrier
Health grade C- Shoulder height23–27 cm
- Weight5–6 kg
- Life expectancy12–15 yrs
- Puppy price1,800–3,500 €
- Energy3/5
The essentials at a glance
The Norwich Terrier is a compact, fearless, and cheerful little Erdhund (earth dog) — bred to keep English farms free of rats. Despite his short legs, he possesses the intrepid heart of a true worker who wants to do more than just sit on the sofa.
- Health grade C: In the Norwich Terrier, the health profile is primarily defined by orthopedic vulnerabilities as well as eye and respiratory problems: patellar luxation (PL), primary lens luxation (PLL), cataracts, and upper airway syndrome (OLS, ADAMTS3-associated) are among the relevant risks, complemented by the risk of a portosystemic shunt (hepatic encephalopathy).
- You appreciate the typical Terrier stubbornness and can lead with loving consistency instead of expecting unconditional obedience.
- You enjoy activities like scent games or digging, where he can put his sharp senses and work ethic to good use.
- You expect him to ignore small animals or the neighbor's cat in the garden — as a true Erdhund, chasing anything that scurries is deeply rooted in his genetics.
How the health grade is calculated
Sources for required breeding screenings. Klub für Terrier von 1894 e.V.
Self-check
Would the Norwich Terrier really fit your life?
Answer 6 quick questions about your everyday life and see how well the Norwich Terrier fits you — including an honest cost estimate per month, per year, and across the dog's lifetime.
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Similar Breeds
Cairn TerrierSame FCI section
Border TerrierSame size & energy
Australian TerrierSame FCI section
West Highland White TerrierSame FCI section
Jack Russell TerrierSame FCI section
Is the Norwich Terrier right for you?
At a glance
Norwich Terrier overview
The essentials — key facts, traits, and health priorities — before you dive deeper.
Lifespan
12–15 yrs
Shoulder height
23–27 cm
Weight
5–6 kg
Practical
- Puppy price: 1,800 – 3,500 €
- Coat: Double layer, wiry, medium length
- Origin: England
Temperament
Energy
Trainability
Family fit
With kids
Daily life
Care effort
Shedding
Barking
City-friendly
Guard instinct
What matters most
Especially with a Norwich Terrier, choosing the right breeder is the single most important decision you'll make. Serious breeders consistently test the parents for inherited conditions, prioritize healthy early socialization, and stay accountable long after handover. A cheap puppy without health screening tends to become the most expensive dog later on.
See HonestDog breeder standards →Colors & coat
What colors does the Norwich Terrier come in?
The coat colors that occur in the Norwich Terrier — including which ones fall outside the breed standard and which carry genetic risk.
Eye colors
Brown
Coat type
Double coat
Wire
Perfect for you if:
- You are looking for a portable companion who is happy in an apartment, provided he gets plenty of time outdoors every day.
- You want a robust, adaptable dog who will accompany you everywhere as an active partner, from the café to forest hikes.
Less ideal if:
- You are looking for a dog with a strong 'will-to-please' who follows every command blindly and immediately.
- You live in an environment with thin walls and cannot tolerate barking, because as a vigilant former farm dog, he likes to announce when something is happening.
The real vibes check
A Norwich Terrier is not a lap dog in plush toy format — he is a tough guy on very short legs. When something rustles in the undergrowth, the cute companion turns into a highly focused hunter in a split second. If you celebrate his courageous character and stubborn charm, you will have an unwavering buddy for all situations.
Breed Profile
The Norwich Terrier is a small, compact dog with a lot of charm and character. Although he is one of the smallest terriers, he should not be underestimated. It is robust and durable, with a striking, wiry, medium-length coat that comes in colors such as red, wheat, black and tan or gray. The powerful, well-angled hind legs give it the ability to both run and dig quickly. The Norwich Terrier's ears are medium sized, erect and pointed, giving him an intelligent and attentive expression. It belongs to FCI Group 3, Section 2, and carries standard number 72. There is no distinct separation between performance and show lines in Norwich Terriers. Every Norwich Terrier, whether he wins shows or not, is capable of carrying out his original work tasks.
All measurements in detail
- Height
- 23 - 27 cm (Female), 23 - 27 cm (Male)
- Weight
- 5 - 6 kg (Female), 5 - 6 kg (Male)
- Life Expectancy
- 12 - 15 yrs
- Character
- Friendly, brave, independent
- Coat
- Double layer, wiry, medium length
- Coat Color
- All shades of red, wheat, black with tan, gray
- Price
- 1800 - 3500 €
Character & Temperament
You'll find that the Norwich Terrier has a big personality despite its small size. He is known for his kindness, courage and independence. A Norwich Terrier loves being around his people and makes a wonderful family dog. He enjoys the company of children and generally gets along well with other dogs and pets. Although he has an independent side, the Norwich Terrier is very people-oriented and enjoys being a part of the action. He is playful and loves chasing and retrieving toys, but he is also content just being around his family. It is important to note that the Norwich Terrier, like many terriers, tends to exhibit strong prey and hunting behavior. Therefore, he must always be kept in a safe area or kept on a leash when outside. The Norwich Terrier has high energy levels and needs a lot of exercise to stay happy and healthy. But he is not a hyperactive dog and can also enjoy quiet moments. Although he can adapt to living in an apartment, he still enjoys the opportunity to run around in the garden and dig. An important aspect of the Norwich Terrier's character is his alertness. He is always on guard and ready to protect his family, making him an excellent watchdog. But he doesn't tend to bark for no reason. His barking is usually a sign that something has caught his attention. When it comes to being alone, the Norwich Terrier shows a good ability to be alone as long as it is well exercised and is not left alone for long periods of time. He is happy when he has a comfortable place to rest, but he should not be isolated for long periods as he needs the company of his humans. With the right home and care, the Norwich Terrier will become a loyal and loving member of the family. He is a brave little dog with a lot of heart and character, and he will certainly bring a lot of joy and entertainment into your life. His hardy nature and friendly personality make him an excellent choice for active families, the elderly, and anyone looking for a cheerful and engaging companion.
| Watchfulness Reports unusual activity but stays controlled. | Moderate |
| Openness to Strangers Warms up quickly and is generally welcoming. | Friendly |
| Hunting or Herding Drive Powerful instinct that can override recall when triggered. | Strong |
Fun Fact!
Did you know that the Norwich Terrier was originally bred to hunt rats? Today he is more of a happy family dog, but his lively and courageous personality still reminds of his brave hunting days.
What Awaits You
Norwich Terriers are small, active dogs that like to be kept busy. They are versatile and adapt well. They are also motivated to hunt.
Housing & Care
The Norwich Terrier is definitely suitable as a city dog. He adapts well to different living conditions as long as he gets enough exercise and mental stimulation. He generally gets along well with children and can also get along with other pets, including cats, as long as he is properly socialized.
- Family Friendly
Loves family life and thrives in a group.
Family-oriented - Child Friendly
Takes boisterous and affectionate children in its stride.
Patient with children - Dog Friendly
Usually gets on fine with other dogs.
Generally tolerant - City Friendly
Small space, noise, lots of people — no problem at all.
Ideal city dog
Owning a dog is a privilege, but it's also a real responsibility. Before you bring one into your life, be honest with yourself about the commitment it takes.
Training & Education
Raising a Norwich Terrier is a fulfilling but also challenging task. They are intelligent and capable of learning, but can also be stubborn and independent. Early socialization and positive, reward-based training are key here. Note that Norwich Terriers have strong prey instincts, so impulse control and recall training are particularly important. They definitely need meaningful activities, but be careful not to overwhelm them - balance is the key here. Agility, obedience and trick training can be great ways to exercise your Norwich Terrier physically and mentally.
Nutrition & Care
The Norwich Terrier is an active dog that requires a balanced, nutritious diet. Be careful not to overfeed him, as being overweight can put a strain on his health. The Norwich Terrier has a dual coat texture - a soft undercoat and a wiry top coat. This makes it relatively well protected against cold and wet, which means that it also tolerates the German climate well. He doesn't shed excessively, but regular grooming (about once a week) will help remove loose hair and keep the coat in good condition.
| Care Level Regular brushing and occasional professional grooming. | Moderate |
| Exercise Needs Needs 1–2 hours of real exercise daily. | Active |
| Shedding Hair everywhere, always — no white clothing survives. | Very heavy |
| Trainability Bred to work closely alongside humans. | Highly trainable |
Our experts are still reviewing this information. Spotted something wrong? Email us at info@honestdog.de.
Health & hereditary diseases
Health
C
Solid, watch carefully
Health grade
In the Norwich Terrier, the health profile is primarily defined by orthopedic vulnerabilities as well as eye and respiratory problems: patellar luxation (PL), primary lens luxation (PLL), cataracts, and upper airway syndrome (OLS, ADAMTS3-associated) are among the relevant risks, complemented by the risk of a portosystemic shunt (hepatic encephalopathy). The Klub für Terrier von 1894 e.V. strictly mandates screening for patellar luxation (PL) for breeding, where only values of PL 0–1 are permitted. Health-conscious breeders additionally test their breeding stock for cataracts, evaluate the risk of upper airway syndrome (OLS, ADAMTS3-associated) as well as a portosystemic shunt (hepatic encephalopathy), and verify the status for primary lens luxation (PLL). Have the proof shown to you before purchasing: the PL results of both parents, eye examination results clear of cataracts, an unremarkable finding regarding a portosystemic shunt, and the status for primary lens luxation (PLL) – a carrier should only be mated with a clear partner.
Grade is relative to other breeds — AI-assisted and editorially reviewed.
Methodology and data: HonestDog Dog Breed Health Report 2026
What matters most for this breed
Tap any item to see details.
In daily life this can mean
With joint-friendly exercise during puppyhood, caution during heat and physical exertion, and regular eye check-ups, most dogs stay fit for a long time.
The breeder's role
Responsible breeders have breeding animals examined for patellar luxation (PL) and additionally test them for primary lens luxation (PLL), cataracts, upper airway syndrome (OLS), and portosystemic shunt.
Note: This health overview is AI-assisted and editorially reviewed. It is for orientation only and does not replace veterinary advice.
Health risks for this breed
What matters most for this breed — what's common, how much it affects the dog's life, and how to protect yourself as a buyer.
5
Risks tracked
1
Club standard
3
High severity
Eyes
Most affected area
Where this breed is vulnerable
Tap a body region to see the inherited conditions linked to it.
The three most important risks
Pick a region on the map to explore other areas.
severemoderatemild
How thoroughly does the breeder test?
Tier 1 reflects the tests Klub für Terrier von 1894 e.V. actually mandates. Tiers 2 and 3 show how responsible breeders go beyond.
Club standard. Klub für Terrier von 1894 e.V. requires these tests for breeding approval. Ask any reputable breeder for the results.
Other breeding-approval requirements
Not health tests, but required for breeding: the club asks for these results too. They don't count toward the risks or the rating.
DNA-Identitätsnachweis
Required by Klub für Terrier von 1894 e.V.
Acceptable result: DNA-Typisierung durchgeführt und in Genotypen-Datenbank hinterlegt
No entries in this tier.
Note: This health overview is AI-assisted and editorially reviewed. It is for orientation only and does not replace veterinary advice.
Costs & where to find one
How much does a Norwich Terrier cost?
A Norwich Terrier costs around ~€170 per month (€90 – €310, depending on your setup). The first year adds up to roughly ~€5,510 including purchase, equipment and puppy school; across the dog's life (13.5 years) it comes to about ~€30,840.
With surgery cover, running costs come to about ~€160 per month — in return, your share of a major operation drops from several thousand euros to around 20 percent.
Per month
~€170
In the first year
~€5,510
Across the dog's life
~€30,840
Estimated purchase price from a breeder: €1,800 – €3,500
Estimate at a mid-range setup (suburban, dry food, 1–2 hours of daily exercise), average German prices, as of July 2026.
Calculate your personal costs1-minute self-check with your own answers
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Appearance, variants & origin
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Illustrative imageHistory
The full history
The story of the Norwich Terrier begins in East Anglia, England, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was a time when the popularity of fox hunting was growing, and there was a need for small, brave dogs capable of chasing foxes and other vermin from their hiding places. Different species of terriers, including the Irish Terrier and the Little Red Terrier, were crossed to create these new working dogs. The breed was originally known as the Trumpington Terrier and was named after the Trumpington Street student residence in Cambridge, where these dogs were very popular. The name later changed to Norwich Terrier, after the county where the breed originated. Originally there were two variants of the Norwich Terrier - those with erect ears and those with drooping ears. However, these were declared two separate breeds in the 1960s, and the drooping variant is now known as the Norfolk Terrier. The Norwich Terrier as we know it today, with erect ears, was recognized as a separate breed by the English Kennel Club in 1964 and by the American Kennel Club in 1979.
Original Use
The Norwich Terrier was used to hunt foxes and fight rats.
Origin
England
Date
1800
Owner experiences
Owners consistently describe the Norwich Terrier as an affectionate, cheerful and very people-oriented companion in family life.Summarized from publicly shared owner experiences
Owners consistently describe the Norwich Terrier as an affectionate, cheerful and very people-oriented companion in family life. Despite its cute looks and compact build, owners keep stressing that it's by no means just a lap or couch dog. It loves cuddles and being close to its people, but it just as much demands shared activities and wants to be right in the middle of things as a full member of the family. With children it's generally considered playful and good-natured, as long as they've learned to treat a small dog with respect.
At the same time, owners point out that you shouldn't underestimate its nature as a former working terrier. Many owners report a strong urge to dig in the yard and constant alertness. Noises or people walking past the fence are often announced quickly and boldly, which can tip into a barking habit if you don't step in early. Still, compared with some other terrier breeds, its temperament is often seen as more sociable and much less quarrelsome with other dogs.
Sources:fressnapf.dekiezdogs.comhundeforum.commit-tier.deamba-versicherungen.de
On training and handling, owners paint a picture of a dog that's very quick to learn but typically willful.Summarized from publicly shared owner experiences
On training and handling, owners paint a picture of a dog that's very quick to learn but typically willful. Norwich Terriers usually pick up rules and tricks fast, but they like to question commands when they don't see the point or lack motivation. Experienced owners therefore agree on loving but fully consistent leadership; with harshness or pressure, the little terrier quickly turns stubborn.
Outdoors, many dogs react readily to stimuli and show a noticeable prey drive. Squirrels, birds, mice or the neighbor's cats in particular switch on the hunting instinct in a flash, so the dog can suddenly bolt at full force on the leash. Most owners find that a reliable off-leash recall takes intensive training. Many owners also share the experience that the breed likes to be challenged mentally on walks with sniffing or search games rather than just trotting along beside them.
Sources:kiezdogs.comamba-versicherungen.dedogforum.depaw-champ.com
Owner accounts on health and grooming paint a very specific picture.Summarized from publicly shared owner experiences
Owner accounts on health and grooming paint a very specific picture. At first glance the Norwich Terrier comes across as a weatherproof, rugged outdoor type. However, owners and breed experts keep stressing the occurrence of upper airway syndrome (UAS), which is a serious issue even in breeding dogs and can show up as noisy breathing or exercise intolerance. For this reason, many owners consistently use a harness instead of a collar in daily life to avoid putting pressure on the sensitive windpipe.
Many owners also point to the breed's hearty appetite: Norwich Terriers tend to be real "vacuum cleaners," so their weight has to be kept under strict control to avoid extra strain on the joints or kneecap problems. Grooming is also described as more work than many beginners expect. The wiry coat needs regular plucking, that is, hand-stripping; if the coat is clipped, it loses its resistance to dirt and weather and becomes permanently soft and high-maintenance.
Paraphrased from real owner reports · translated from German
FAQ & more
Is a Norwich Terrier the right dog for me?
The Norwich Terrier is an adaptable dog that adjusts well to various lifestyles. Research the temperament, grooming needs, and space requirements before deciding.
How long does a Norwich Terrier live?
The average life expectancy of a Norwich Terrier is 12-15 years. With proper care and regular vet visits, your dog can live a long, healthy life.
How much grooming does a Norwich Terrier need?
Norwich Terrier grooming requirements include regular brushing, nail trimming, and dental care. HonestDog provides detailed grooming tips for every breed.
Is a Norwich Terrier good for families with children?
The Norwich Terrier can be a great family dog. Proper training and socialization are key. HonestDog provides family suitability information for every breed.
What colors does the Norwich Terrier come in?
The Norwich Terrier comes in these colors: Red, Wheaten, Black and tan, Grizzle.
Are you a Norwich Terrier breeder?
Showcase your kennel on HonestDog and reach families searching for a responsibly bred Norwich Terrier.