The AKC Standard calls the Norfolk Terrier “game and hardy… a ‘perfect demon’ in the field…gregarious, fearless and loyal”. Additionally they are full of fire and assertiveness, but are also agreeable and make good companions; in short, they are what any terrier should be. Never aggressive, the Norfolk Terrier, along with the Border Terrier and their Norwich Terrier brothers are the gentlest and most sociable of the Terrier Group. They get along about as well as an average dog with all members of their family including children, although they do best with older, considerate youngsters with whom they will gladly play. His response to strangers varies from wary to accepting. They get along with other dogs better than many other terrier breeds, but can still be scrappy if pushed. But with a typical terrier prey drive, trusting them around hamsters or ferrets would be foolish. A very busy little dog whether inside or out, he is alert and watchful making him an outstanding watchdog. But his tendency to bark when anything that is amiss can become excessive in some individuals. Although they may try, they make below average guard dogs. His exercise needs can be reasonably met by responding to his interest in playing or a brisk walk. But when outside he must be leashed or confined to thwart his interest in adventure. Adaptable, they do well in an apartment if adequately exercised. But they can be possessive of their food and toys and is able to dig tirelessly for hours.

The Norfolk Terrier is a small dog, one of the smallest working terriers. He stands 9 to 10 inches tall and weighs 11 to 15 pounds. Their coats are about 2 inches long and come in the colors of red, wheaten, black and tan, or grizzle. They shed little if at all. Brush them once a week to keep their coat in good condition. The breed does well in any reasonable temperature. Many people can’t remember how to tell the Norfolk and Norwich Terriers apart, which is quite easy to do. The Norfolk has ears that fold over and the Norwich has triangular ears that stand up straight. To remember which is which, look at the first letter not common to both names, the “f” in the Norfolk and the “w” in Norwich. The top of an “f” shows the profile of a folded ear and the center of a “w” shows the front of an erect, triangular ear.

The Norfolk Terrier needs more socialization than most other terriers even though it is rare to find one that is nervous or shy. Smarter than most dogs but with a terriers obstinance, training a Norfolk is usually more of a challenge than most dogs. With a mind of its own, it is important to provide them with consistent rules to follow. But use only positive training methods (food rewards work well) as the Norfolk is a sensitive breed. Even being one of the mildest terriers, he is still not recommended for a first-time owner.