Norfolk Terrier

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Useful Information

Norfolk Terrier

SPECIAL SKILLS: The Norfolk Terrier, or Norfolk, game and hardy, with expressive dropped ears, is one of the smallest of the working terriers. It is active and compact, free-moving, with good substance and bone. With its natural, weather-resistant coat and short legs, it is a "perfect demon" in the field. This versatile, agreeable breed can go to ground, bolt a fox and tackle or dispatch other small vermin, working alone or with a pack. Honorable scars from wear and tear are acceptable in the ring. Terrier Group dog.

SIZE: Height at the withers 9 to 10 inches at maturity. Bitches tend to be smaller than dogs. Length of back from point of withers to base of tail should be slightly longer than the height at the withers. Good substance and bone. Weight 11 to 12 pounds or that which is suitable for each individual dog's structure and balance. Fit working condition is a prime consideration.

COAT: The protective coat is hard, wiry and straight, about 1½ to 2 inches long, lying close to the body, with a definite undercoat. The mane on neck and shoulders is longer and also forms a ruff at the base of the ears and the throat. Moderate furnishings of harsh texture on legs. Hair on the head and ears is short and smooth, except for slight eyebrows and whiskers. Some tidying is necessary to keep the dog neat, but shaping should be heavily penalized.

Color - All shades of red, wheaten, black and tan, or grizzle. Dark points permissible. White marks are not desirable.

CARE REQUIRED: The shaggy, medium-length, waterproof coat is relatively easy, but daily combing and brushing is important. Little clipping is required. Take extra care when the dog is shedding. Bathe and dry shampoo only when necessary. This breed is a light shedder.

CHARACTER: Alert, gregarious, fearless and loyal. Never aggressive.

TRAINING: These little dogs were bred to work. They are energetic and thrive on an active life, but they won't sulk if you miss a day now and then.

SOCIAL BEHAVIOR: Norfolks will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard.

EXERCISE: They are easy to train but need consistent rules to follow. These little dogs love everyone and are good with children. He will dig and bark if left outside for long periods of time with nothing to occupy his quick mind.