Norfolk Terrier 101: The Adorable Dog Breed
The Norfolk Terrier is one of the smallest terrier breeds in the world. He isclosely related to the Norwich Terrier, but differs from it in a number of respects - including ear posture. For this reason the breeds were officially separated in the 1960s and the Norfolk Terrier got its name. The original purpose of these little Englishmen was to help fight rodents on farms. In some cases, they even proved to be companions for fox hunts. The FCI leads the Norfolk Terrier in group three, section two under standard number 272. He is no longer used as a hunter today, but has become a popular family companion.
The Appearance of the Norfolk Terrier
Weight
Because of their small size, Norfolk Terriers are real lightweights. Adult males and females weigh about five to 5.4 kilograms.
Size
There are no significant differences in size between female and male Norfolk Terriers. A shoulder height of about 25 centimeters corresponds to the standard specifications.
Colour
The rough fur of the Norfolk Terrier can be black, red or wheat. The colors gray and a combination of tan and black fur are also permitted.
Anatomy
The Norfolk Terrier is very small and has short legs. His physique can be described as compact. The most important distinguishing feature of the Norwich Terrier are the tilt ears. His close relative's ears stand up straight.
Special properties
Beings
The Norfolk Terrier very much appreciates children and conspecifics. Opposing them always presents itself from its best side, is always ready to play and knows how to exercise understanding and flexibility. Strangers and unknowns are initially somewhat suspect to the Norfolk Terrier. This is where most dogs of this breed also show their barking joy.
Norfolk Terriers are very intelligent and learn quickly. The education of these small dogs should not be neglected in order to avoid long-term difficulties. If you treat these dogs with too much negligence, you will sooner or later be faced with undesirable behavior. Consequence therefore plays a crucial role in education. At best, it is associated with understanding and gentleness, because harsh words are not needed to get the Norfolk Terrier used to commands and desired behavior
Possible areas of application
The hunting purpose no longer plays a role in the Norfolk Terrier. These dogs are simply too small to be able to move around freely on farms. In everyday life, however, the breed proves to be a pleasant companion dog that is also suitable for dog sports. Playful disciplines, in which the Norfolk Terrier can demonstrate his joy of movement and intelligence, come in handy for him. In agility, dog dancing or clicker training , owners have a lot of fun with this small dog.
Care and maintenance of the Norfolk Terrier
When it comes to keeping, the Norfolk Terrier proves to be unproblematic. Small city apartments are just as suitable for him as large houses with a garden, as long as keepers do justice to the terrier's need to move and play. When walking, a Norfolk Terrier - if at all - can only be leashed after thorough upbringing, since most of these dogs have a certain hunting instinct. Owing to its small size, keepers should not be blinded by the way: the Norfolk Terrier loves long walks and can easily keep up with his people even on hikes.
The rough fur of the Norfolk Terrier should be brushed about three times a week. Who brushes too often damages the undercoat. So that the fur always looks healthy and strong, a visit to the hairdressing salon should be scheduled twice a year. Dead hair is gently plucked here as Norfolk Terriers should not be trimmed. A bath needs this breed only in extreme emergencies. Soiling of the fur can usually be easily removed with a brush and a damp sponge.
Of course, regular checks at the veterinarian are also part of the species-appropriate care of the Norfolk Terrier. Here you should not only pay attention to the necessary vaccinations, because the removal of tartar and possibly also the claw cutting are pending from time to time in these small dogs.