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.
Norwich Terrier scorecard
Overview
The Norwich Terrier is one of the smallest of the working terriers, a sturdy, low-set little dog with prick ears, a hardy wiry coat and a famously bold, affectionate character. Standing around 24 to 26 cm and weighing roughly 5 to 5.5 kg, it packs a great deal of personality and game spirit into a compact, robust frame. It is closely related to the drop-eared Norfolk Terrier, with which it shares much of its history.
Despite its small size the Norwich is every inch a terrier, with a strong prey drive, a love of digging and a fondness for barking, balanced by a sociable, people-loving nature that makes it an engaging companion. For an owner who enjoys a plucky, characterful small dog and can provide sensible exercise and training, it is a delightful breed.
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.
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History & origins
The Norwich Terrier developed in East Anglia in eastern England in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, where small red terriers were popular as ratters and companions, including among Cambridge University students. The breed and the drop-eared Norfolk Terrier were originally registered together and were later recognised as two separate breeds, with the prick-eared variety becoming the Norwich.
It is recognised by The Kennel Club in the Terrier group and by the Federation Cynologique Internationale under British patronage. It remains a comparatively uncommon but well-loved breed in its native UK.
Temperament & family fit
The Norwich Terrier is typically affectionate, sociable and outgoing, generally enjoying the company of people and other dogs more readily than some terriers, and it is usually good with children. It is bold, curious and lively, with the alert watchfulness typical of the terrier family, and it tends to bark to announce events.
Underneath its friendly nature it retains genuine terrier drive: it loves to dig, will readily chase small animals and can be determined or stubborn when its instincts are engaged. Early socialisation and sensible management of its prey drive help it be a well-rounded companion.
- Families with children of all ages
- Committed first-time owners
- Homes with a secure garden
Training & intelligence
Intelligent and eager to please, the Norwich is fairly trainable and responds well to positive, reward-based methods, though it shares the terrier tendency towards independence and can be wilful if bored. Short, fun and varied sessions keep it engaged, and consistency helps curb habits such as excessive barking or digging.
Early socialisation and recall training are valuable given its prey drive. Its biddable, people-oriented nature makes it a reasonable choice for attentive novice owners who appreciate terrier character and are prepared to provide structure.
- Start socialisation & handling early
- Reward-based methods only — no harsh corrections
- Channel energy into training games & enrichment
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
The harsh, wiry double coat is low-shedding but needs regular brushing and periodic hand-stripping to maintain its texture and keep it in good condition; clipping softens the coat over time and is generally discouraged for show dogs, though many pet owners accept it. Brushing a couple of times a week prevents matting and removes dead hair, and routine nail, ear and dental care round out the grooming regime.
- Brush several times a week
- Bathe every few weeks or as needed
- Check ears, nails and teeth weekly
Feeding considerations
Feed a complete, balanced diet appropriate to a small, active dog, with portions measured to maintain a lean condition, as small breeds can gain weight easily and the extra load tells on their joints. Adjust amounts to age and activity level, go easy on treats, and avoid feeding from the table. Fresh water should always be available.
Norwich Terrier health & costs
Before bringing a Norwich Terrier home it pays to budget for the whole picture — food, insurance, grooming and routine vet care all add up. The figures below are typical UK estimates for a healthy adult; your real costs vary with where you live, your dog's health and the cover you choose.
Food
£250–400 / year
Complete food sized to weight & life stage
Insurance
£15–32 / month
Lifetime cover — varies by age, breed & area
Grooming
£120–300 / year
Occasional pro + home brushing
Routine vet care
£200–450 / year
Vaccines, flea/worm, annual check
The Norwich Terrier is generally a robust little dog with a good typical lifespan of around 12 to 15 years. As with all breeds, responsible breeders health-test their stock and prospective owners should ask to see relevant results.
The breed has some recognised concerns, including a breathing condition known as upper airway syndrome that affects some lines, as well as joint and dental issues common in small dogs. Buying from a health-focused breeder and maintaining good weight and dental care support a long, healthy life.
Common health conditions to be aware of
- Upper airway syndrome — a breathing condition recognised in some Norwich Terrier lines
- Patellar luxation — slipping kneecap common in small breeds
- Hip dysplasia — joint malformation; screening of breeding stock is advisable
- Dental disease — common in small breeds, managed with regular tooth care
- Eye conditions — periodic eye examination is sensible
- Obesity — easy weight gain if overfed, straining joints
These reflect typical, size- and coat-related risks for dogs like the Norwich Terrier; individual breeds carry their own predispositions. Always buy from health-tested parents and speak to your vet — this isn't a diagnosis.
Protect against surprise bills
A single emergency can run into thousands. Lifetime insurance spreads the risk.
Estimate insurance →How pet insurance works →Puppy & senior care
Bringing home a Norwich Terrier puppy
Puppies need controlled exercise (a rough guide is five minutes per month of age, twice a day) to protect growing joints, little-and-often meals of a complete puppy food, early socialisation, and a calm routine for toilet training and sleep. Book first vaccinations, microchipping and a vet check early.
New puppy checklist →Caring for a senior Norwich Terrier
As they age, watch weight, joints and teeth, switch to a senior diet if your vet advises, keep exercise gentle but regular, and consider orthopaedic bedding and ramps. Twice-yearly vet checks help catch issues early.
Orthopaedic beds & mobility →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
Compare the Norwich Terrier
See how the Norwich Terrier measures up against similar breeds before you decide:
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a Norwich and a Norfolk Terrier?
The two are closely related and share much of their history, but the most obvious difference is the ears: the Norwich Terrier has prick (upright) ears, while the Norfolk Terrier has drop (folded) ears. Both are small, sturdy working terriers with hardy wiry coats and bold, affectionate characters. They were once considered a single breed before being separated.
How big is a Norwich Terrier?
The Norwich Terrier is one of the smallest of the working terriers, a sturdy, low-set little dog standing around 24 to 26 cm and weighing roughly 5 to 5.5 kg. Despite its compact, robust frame it packs in a great deal of personality and game spirit, with prick ears and a hardy wiry coat.
Are Norwich Terriers good with children and other dogs?
Yes. The Norwich Terrier is typically affectionate, sociable and outgoing, generally enjoying the company of people and other dogs more readily than some terriers, and it is usually good with children. Underneath its friendly nature it retains genuine terrier drive, so early socialisation and sensible management of its prey drive help it be a well-rounded companion.
Do Norwich Terriers bark and dig a lot?
They can. As every inch a terrier, the Norwich loves to dig, will readily chase small animals and tends to bark to announce events. Consistency and short, fun training sessions help curb these habits, and a securely fenced garden is useful. Early socialisation and recall training are valuable given its strong prey drive.
How much grooming does a Norwich Terrier need?
The harsh, wiry double coat is low-shedding but needs regular brushing and periodic hand-stripping to maintain its texture. Clipping softens the coat over time and is generally discouraged for show dogs, though many pet owners accept it. Brushing a couple of times a week prevents matting, with routine nail, ear and dental care completing the regime.
How long do Norwich Terriers live?
The Norwich Terrier is generally a robust little dog with a good typical lifespan of around 12 to 15 years. Recognised concerns include a breathing condition known as upper airway syndrome in some lines, as well as joint and dental issues common in small dogs. Buying from a health-focused breeder and maintaining good weight and dental care support a long life.
Are Norwich Terriers easy to train?
Intelligent and eager to please, the Norwich is fairly trainable and responds well to positive, reward-based methods, though it shares the terrier tendency towards independence and can be wilful if bored. Short, fun, varied sessions keep it engaged. Its biddable, people-oriented nature makes it a reasonable choice for attentive novice owners prepared to provide structure.
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.
Sources
- The Kennel Club — Norwich Terrier breed information: https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/breed-standards/terrier/norwich-terrier/
- Federation Cynologique Internationale — Norwich Terrier standard: https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/NORWICH-TERRIER-72.html
- PDSA — Small dog care and exercise advice: https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/puppies-dogs
- Blue Cross — Dog grooming and care: https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/dog
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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.