Norfolk Terrier

The Norfolk Terrier, along with the Norwich Terrier, is the smallest of the terriers. It stands only 9"� to 10"� tall. Like many small terriers, it was originally bred to keep barns clear of rodents and other small vermin. The Norfolk makes an exceptional family pet. It can be difficult to acquire a Norfolk because demand greatly exceeds supply; prospective owners must beware of scams in which another breed is passed off as a Norfolk! The Norfolk Terrier is a sturdy, compact dog with drop ears. Its tail may be docked, particularly if it is shown in the U.S. The coat is double, having a top layer that is harsh, wiry and weather-resistant, and a soft, woolly undercoat that works to insulate. The Norfolk has a protective "mane"� on its neck and shoulders. The coat may be red, tan, wheaten, grizzle, or black and tan. The Norfolk Terrier is differentiated from the Norwich Terrier by virtue of its drop ears, with the Norwich's being prick ears. For many years they were considered the same breed. However, owners of both breeds often discuss differences in temperament and the future breeding trend will certainly be to further emphasize those differences. Both varieties were registered with the United Kingdom Kennel Club in 1932 as the Norwich Terrier, and with the American Kennel Club in 1936. But from the early 1930's there was already a movement underway to separate the breeds. The UKKC declared the Norfolk Terrier a separate breed only in 1964, and the Canadian Kennel Club and the AKC followed suit in 1979. Today, some historians believe that the two breeds were distinct to begin with, and only became more similar through crossbreeding. The Norwich or Norfolk type of terrier was developed in the East Anglia region of England; the first documentation as a distinct breed in the late 19th century but there is little doubt the breed existed long before then. It is derived from small red terriers that were used in the region by Gypsies from Norfolk to hunt vermin. Over time it was crossed with the Irish Terrier preferred ratter of the time, and probably also the Cairn Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier. Early in its history, The Norwich/Norfolk was known by various names. Very early it was called the "Trumpington Terrier"� after a street in the region where it was bred. (Some sources suggest that the Trumpington is a now-extinct breed, but more historians agree that it is actually the early Norwich.) When it became popular for students at Cambridge University to keep these dogs in their rooms as pets, the breed was called the "Cantab"�. In the early 20th century, prior to the first world war, a huntsman named Frank Jones sold the dogs en masse to the United States, where they were known as the "Jones Terrier"�. The Norfolk was long a working dog, used on farms to clear vermin. It is believed that English landowners frequently carried the little workers with them as they rode horseback. The Norfolk Terrier was also used occasionally during the hunt to flush fox and other small prey from the hole so that the chase could begin. Even now it is used in continental Europe to "bolt"� foxes. Still, this happy, scrappy little dog has always been a family companion as well as performing its work. It is one of the most even-tempered and least aggressive of terriers. The coat of the Norfolk needs faithful attention, not only to keep it looking good, but to ensure that the dog does not develop skin problems. It should be brushed or combed with a wide-tooth ("greyhound"�) comb or curry brush at least weekly. Grooming for the Norfolk Terrier is unique: it involves "stripping"� the coat at least twice a year. This is a process by which the dead hair of the top coat is plucked away. It is important that the owner find a groomer experienced in this process; many groomers are not, and will instead clip or cut the coat, which will ruin its appearance and texture. The coat should be stripped at a minimum once in the spring and once in the fall. It should never be cut or clipped, except perhaps in the elderly dog whose skin has become too sensitive to tolerate the stripping process. The Norfolk may be bathed occasionally to keep its coat free of parasites and debris.The Norfolk Terrier is a very healthy breed in general. The more common problems are often genetic and can be avoided with responsible breeding. These include patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, mitral valve disease, cataracts and skin allergies. It is not yet understood why upper respiratory difficulties, known as "upper airway syndrome"� (UAS) is more common in the Norwich and Norfolk than in other breeds. Norfolk Terriers are active whirlwinds who need exercise daily. The owner should devote at least half an hour to vigorous exercise of the dog outside; this might include a brisk walk or fast game of fetch. Without adequate physical activity and mental stimulation, the Norfolk can become prone to behavioral problems such as excessive barking, digging, and destruction of household items.The Norfolk Terrier must be confined within a yard or leashed at all times; they possess a very strong prey drive, which renders them likely to give chase at any time, even into traffic.Attention and bonding from the human is essential to keep this breed happy and well-behaved. It was originally a pack dog the terriers worked in groups, taking turns to hunt the prey or flush it. As such, it is instinctively oriented toward companionship whether with people or other dogs. The Norfolk is generally very good with children. It is not by nature an excessive barker, but will be quite vocal in warning its owner of a visitor or intruder. It is important to give this dog proper mental stimulation so that it doesn't become yappy. Owners enjoy keeping their Norfolk busy with such activities as Agility and Earthdog competitions.

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