Norwich Terrier
One of the smallest working terriers, with prick ears and a hardy wiry coat. Bold, affectionate and sociable, making a sturdy companion, but with terrier drive and a love of barking.
Overview
One of the smallest working terriers, with prick ears and a hardy wiry coat. Bold, affectionate and sociable, making a sturdy companion, but with terrier drive and a love of barking.
Good to know — a Norwich Terrier is best with a garden and good for first-time owners. Every dog is an individual, so meet a few and chat to a good breeder or rescue before deciding.
Temperament & family fit
In general, a Norwich Terrier is good with children and generally fine with other dogs. They tend to be a vocal / alert barker, and as a guide they are good for first-time owners. Early socialisation, reward-based training and supervision around young children make all the difference.
- Families with children of all ages
- Committed first-time owners
- Homes with a secure garden
Exercise needs
A healthy adult Norwich Terrier typically needs 90 minutes to 2 hours a day (roughly 90–120 minutes), split across walks, play and a little training. Higher-energy dogs also need their brains tired — sniffy walks, training games and puzzle feeding go a long way. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need adjusted amounts — check with your vet.
Grooming & coat
Coat upkeep is regular brushing and shedding is low. Brush regularly (a few times a week) to keep the coat healthy and remove loose hair.
- Brush several times a week
- Bathe every few weeks or as needed
- Check ears, nails and teeth weekly
Feeding considerations
Like any dog, a Norwich Terrier should get most of its nutrition from a complete, balanced dog food suited to its size and life stage. Portions scale with body weight and activity, so a small breed will eat relatively little compared with other breeds — follow the food’s feeding guide and your vet’s advice, and weigh portions to avoid creeping weight gain. Treats should make up no more than about 10% of daily calories.
Pros & cons
The good bits
- Affectionate, sociable and adaptable
- Low-shedding, robust little dog
Things to consider
- Strong prey drive and likes to dig
- Tends to bark and can be stubborn
Similar breeds
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
A gentle, affectionate lap dog that’s wonderful with children and adapts happily to flat or house living.
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Jack Russell Terrier
A small dog with a huge personality — bold, clever and bursting with energy and prey drive.
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Border Terrier
A hardy, good-natured working terrier that’s friendlier with people and dogs than many of its terrier cousins.
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Dachshund
A bold, characterful "sausage dog" that suits smaller homes but needs careful handling of its long back.
View breed guide →Frequently asked questions
Are Norwich Terriers good with children?
Good with children. As a general guide, Norwich Terriers tend to be patient and tolerant. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.
How much exercise does a Norwich Terrier need?
As a healthy adult, a typical Norwich Terrier needs 90 minutes to 2 hours of exercise a day (90–120 minutes), split across walks plus play. Higher-energy dogs also need mental stimulation — sniffing, training games and puzzle feeders — to stay settled. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.
Do Norwich Terriers shed a lot?
Low shedding. Coat upkeep is regular brushing — brush regularly to keep the coat in good condition.
Are Norwich Terriers easy to train and good for first-time owners?
Good for first-time owners. Norwich Terriers are generally a forgiving choice for first-time owners who put in early training and socialisation. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.
Do Norwich Terriers bark a lot?
Vocal / alert barker. They can be quite vocal, so early training and enough exercise and stimulation help keep barking in check.
Are Norwich Terriers good with other dogs?
Generally fine with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.
Do Norwich Terriers suit flats or smaller homes?
Best with a garden. A Norwich Terrier is happiest with access to a secure garden and regular outdoor exercise.
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Every dog is an individual — temperament and needs vary. Please research thoroughly, meet dogs in person, and consider adopting from a rescue. This is general guidance, not a substitute for advice from your vet or a qualified trainer.