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
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
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
Small
5–5.5 kg
Wiry, weather-resistant
12–15 years
5–5.5 kg
Moderately active
Medium
20–32 kg
Curly, dense
12–15 years
18–27 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Norwich Terrier
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
Poodle
Warm and sociable with family and guests
Highly intelligent and quick to learn commands
Needs regular activity and enjoys exercise
Loves games and interactive playtime
Easily adjusts to new environments and routines
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Norwich Terrier
Patellar luxation, upper airway issues
Poodle
Hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Norwich Terrier
Good option
Eager to please and intelligent, but may challenge inexperienced owners with stubbornness
Very suitable
Small size and moderate exercise needs make them adaptable to apartment life
Good match
Energetic nature fits well with active owners who provide regular play and walks
Generally suitable
Friendly and playful, but supervision is needed due to their small size and terrier instincts
Cautiously compatible
Can get along with other pets if socialized early, but may chase smaller animals
Not ideal
Dislike being left alone for long periods and may develop separation anxiety or destructive habits
Poodle
Great choice
Intelligent and eager to please, Poodles are easy for beginners to train and manage.
Highly suitable
Poodles adapt well to apartment life if given daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Perfect fit
Their energy and love for activity make them great companions for active households.
Very friendly
Poodles are gentle and patient with children when socialized from a young age.
Gets along well
Poodles usually coexist peacefully with other pets, especially if socialized early.
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
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