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Norwich Terrier vs Poodle

Discover the differences between Norwich Terrier and Poodle to make the best choice for your situation.

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Norwich Terrier
England

Norwich Terrier

Terrier Group
Small

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.

Poodle
Germany/France

Poodle

Non-Sporting Group
Medium

Elegant, intelligent, and highly trainable, this breed stands out for its lively spirit and loyal companionship. Their hypoallergenic coat and playful personality make them ideal family pets.

Quick comparison

Size:

Small

Male:

5–5.5 kg

Coat:

Wiry, weather-resistant

Lifespan:

12–15 years

Female:

5–5.5 kg

Energy:

Moderately active

Size:

Medium

Male:

20–32 kg

Coat:

Curly, dense

Lifespan:

12–15 years

Female:

18–27 kg

Energy:

High energy

Personality & behavior

Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.

Norwich Terrier

Friendliness
4/5

Enjoys people and other dogs, generally sociable

Intelligence
4/5

Quick learner, responds well to training

Energy Level
5/5

Very active, needs daily exercise

Playfulness
5/5

Loves games, enjoys interactive play

Adaptability
4/5

Adjusts well to new environments and situations

Poodle

Friendliness
5/5

Warm and sociable with family and guests

Intelligence
5/5

Highly intelligent and quick to learn commands

Energy Level
4/5

Needs regular activity and enjoys exercise

Playfulness
5/5

Loves games and interactive playtime

Adaptability
5/5

Easily adjusts to new environments and routines

Care needs

Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements

Norwich Terrier

Grooming:
Average grooming needed (1–2 times weekly)
Exercise:
45–60 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates
Health concerns:

Patellar luxation, upper airway issues

Poodle

Grooming:
High grooming needs (at least weekly)
Exercise:
60–90 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Highly trainable
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease

Suitability

How well each breed fits different living situations and families

Norwich Terrier

First-time Owner
4/5

Good option

Eager to please and intelligent, but may challenge inexperienced owners with stubbornness

Apartment Living
5/5

Very suitable

Small size and moderate exercise needs make them adaptable to apartment life

Active Lifestyle
4/5

Good match

Energetic nature fits well with active owners who provide regular play and walks

Kids
4/5

Generally suitable

Friendly and playful, but supervision is needed due to their small size and terrier instincts

Multiple Pets
3/5

Cautiously compatible

Can get along with other pets if socialized early, but may chase smaller animals

Being Left Alone
2/5

Not ideal

Dislike being left alone for long periods and may develop separation anxiety or destructive habits

Poodle

First-time Owner
5/5

Great choice

Intelligent and eager to please, Poodles are easy for beginners to train and manage.

Apartment Living
4/5

Highly suitable

Poodles adapt well to apartment life if given daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Perfect fit

Their energy and love for activity make them great companions for active households.

Kids
5/5

Very friendly

Poodles are gentle and patient with children when socialized from a young age.

Multiple Pets
4/5

Gets along well

Poodles usually coexist peacefully with other pets, especially if socialized early.

Being Left Alone
2/5

Prone to anxiety

Poodles can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods regularly.

Breed strengths

What each breed excels at and their best qualities

Norwich Terrier

  • 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

Poodle

  • Highly intelligent and easy to train
  • Hypoallergenic coat reduces shedding
  • Strong bond with family members
  • Adaptable to various living environments
  • Excellent performance in canine sports

Challenges & considerations

Potential challenges and considerations for each breed

Norwich Terrier

  • 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

Poodle

  • Requires regular professional grooming
  • Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
  • Needs daily mental and physical stimulation
  • Can be reserved with unfamiliar people
  • Susceptible to certain genetic health issues

Ready to choose your perfect breed?

Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.

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