Norwich Terrier

Size
Small (under 11kg)
Exercise
40 min/day
Training
Puppy school only
Size of home
Some outdoor space
Time at home
Alone with support
Grooming
Weekly
Barking preference
Moderate
Personality
Very affectionate

History

The Norfolk Terrier and the Norwich Terrier’s history originated in the flat agricultural counties of East Anglia. They were bred for ratting and to accompany the hunt. They were not expected to follow on foot but were carried by huntsmen in wicker baskets. That in part explains why both breeds have developed into such cobby little dogs, as opposed to some of their racier cousins. Also much of their work was in agricultural drains, which being larger and straighter than the average earth, presented less problem to terriers of their make and shape.

Appearance

The Norwich Terrier, spirited and stocky with sensitive prick ears and a slightly foxy expression, is one of the smallest working terriers. This sturdy descendent of ratting companions, eager to dispatch small vermin alone or in a pack, has good bone and substance and an almost weatherproof coat. In outline, though similar to the Norfolk, the Norwich is broader, usually short in neck and coupling and lower to the ground. In general, Norwich Terriers tend to be more round. They also appear to wear mascara.

Temperament

Curious, alert, affectionate, gregarious and loyal, Norwich Terriers adapt more easily to urban life, preferring the company of humans over other dogs. They are known for their ability to adapt to different situations, making the breed ideal for either the city or country lifestyle.

Health

There are no particular health problems for Norwich Terriers. They usually live to 12-14 years.

Suitability

Norwich are active by nature. To keep them in healthy condition a Norwich should be taken for daily walks on leash. Because a Norwich has strong hunting instincts and typical terrier curiosity, most breeders and owners recommend that the breed be exercised in a fenced area or on leash.

Norwich enjoy other dogs and free play in an enclosed and safe area. The Norwich’s wiry coat is weather proof and requires regular grooming, including brushing and stripping along with the occasional bath.

Norwich Terriers are smart willing companions and can excel in a variety of canine activities.

Words: Elizabeth Hindley

Image: Shutterstock.com

In Conclusion

Now you know a little about the Norwich Terrier, you may think that this is the dog for you. Before you make a decision, please make contact with the breed club or your State controlling body for purebred dogs. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog shows where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the Norwich Terrier and its needs, and whether this breed would suit your lifestyle.

Official breed standard as recognized by Dogs NSW (Last Updated: 22 May 2009)

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A breed standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics, temperament, and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function with soundness essential. Breeders and judges should at all times be mindful of features which could be detrimental in any way to the health, welfare or soundness of this breed.

General Appearance

Small, low, keen dog, compact and strong with good substance and bone. Honourable scars from fair wear and tear not to be unduly penalised.

Characteristics

One of the smallest of the terriers. Lovable disposition, not quarrelsome, tremendously active with hardy constitution.

Temperament

Gay and fearless.

Physical Standards

Head and Skull	Muzzle wedge-shaped and strong. In length two-thirds of measurement from occiput to bottom of well defined stop. Slightly rounded, wide skull, good width between ears.
Eyes	Relatively small, oval shaped, dark, full of expression, bright and keen.
Ears	Erect, set well apart on top of skull. Medium size with pointed tips. Perfectly erect when aroused, can be laid back when not at attention.
Mouth	Tight lipped, jaws clean and strong. Rather large, strong teeth with perfect, regular scissor bite, i.e. upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws.
Neck	Strong of good length, commensurate with correct overall balance, flowing into well laid shoulders.
Forequarters	Legs short, powerful and straight; elbows close to body. Pasterns firm and upright.
Body	Short back, compact with good depth. Rib cage long and well sprung with short loin. Level topline.
Hindquarters	Broad, strong and muscular, well turned stifle. Low set hock with great propulsion.
Feet	Rounded, well padded and cat-like. Pointing straight forward standing and moving.
Tail	Docked: Medium docked. Set high, completing perfectly level topline. Carried erect.Undocked: Tail of moderate length to give a general balance to dog, thick at root and tapering towards tip, as straight as possible, carried jauntily, not excessively gay, completing perfectly level topline.
Gait/Movement	Fore legs should move straight forward when travelling; hind legs follow in their track; hocks parallel and flexing to show pads.
Coat	Hard, wiry, straight, lying close to body, thick undercoat. Longer and rougher on neck forming a ruff to frame face. Hair on head and ears short and smooth, except for slight whiskers and eyebrows.
Colour	All shades of red, wheaten, black and tan or grizzle. White marks or patches are undesirable.
Size	Ideal height: 25 cms (10 ins) at withers.

Faults

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog.