Norwich Terrier
Full of spirit and charm, this small terrier brings big personality to any home. Always eager to play, Norwich Terriers make lively and affectionate companions.
Breed Characteristics
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.
HEIGHT
25–26 cm (male)
24–25 cm (female)
WEIGHT
5–5.5 kg (male)
5–5.5 kg (female)
LIFE EXPECTANCY
12–15 years
Norwich Terrier: Breed snapshot
Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance
Key Breed Characteristics
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
Species
Canis lupus familiaris
Diet
Omnivore
"A Norwich Terrier isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."
Temperament & personality
Understanding Norwich Terrier's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.
Personality Overview
The Norwich Terrier is friendly, alert, and affectionate, often forming strong bonds with family and getting along well with children and other dogs. They are spirited but not aggressive.
Key Personality Traits
Enjoys people and other dogs, generally sociable
Quick learner, responds well to training
Very active, needs daily exercise
Loves games, enjoys interactive play
Adjusts well to new environments and situations
Strengths
- Alert and responsive watchdog instincts
- Friendly with people and other dogs
- Compact size suits small living spaces
- Playful and energetic companion
- Minimal grooming compared to many terriers
Challenges
- Prone to chasing small animals outdoors
- Can be stubborn during training sessions
- Needs regular mental and physical stimulation
- May bark frequently when bored or excited
- Sensitive to harsh corrections or loud noises
Protect your Norwich Terrier
Norwich Terrier can develop patellar luxation and upper airway issues. PetSecur covers unexpected vet costs with quick payouts and personal service.
Intelligence & exercise needs
Norwich Terriers are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.
🧠 Intelligence & training
Trainability
Learns with consistency
Overall rating
Norwich Terriers are intelligent and quick learners, though their independent nature may require consistent, patient training. They respond well to positive reinforcement but can be easily distracted by scents and movement.
Trainable Tasks:
🏃 Exercise & energy levels
Daily Exercise
45–60 minutes daily
recommended per day
This breed has high energy and requires daily exercise, such as walks and playtime, to stay healthy and content. Mental stimulation through games or training sessions is also important.
Recommended Activities:
Is this breed right for you?
Norwich Terriers are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a Norwich Terrier would fit well in your home.
First-time Owner
Eager to please and intelligent, but may challenge inexperienced owners with stubbornness
Apartment Living
Small size and moderate exercise needs make them adaptable to apartment life
Active Lifestyle
Energetic nature fits well with active owners who provide regular play and walks
Kids
Friendly and playful, but supervision is needed due to their small size and terrier instincts
Multiple Pets
Can get along with other pets if socialized early, but may chase smaller animals
Being Left Alone
Dislike being left alone for long periods and may develop separation anxiety or destructive habits
Breed comparisons
Wondering how Norwich Terriers compare to other popular breeds? Check out our detailed comparison pages.
Frequently Asked Questions about Norwich Terrier
Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about this breed
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