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Norwich Terrier
Terrier breed from East Anglia, England
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Norwich Terrier
The Norwich Terrier is a small, sturdy terrier with a wiry double coat and distinctive prick ears. It is alert, energetic, affectionate, courageous, and outgoing. Individual temperaments vary, but these traits are commonly reported. The breed's size is estimated: males and females weigh about 5–5.5 kg and stand 23–25 cm tall. Lifespan is estimated at 12–15 years. Energy level is high (4/5), trainability moderate (3/5), grooming needs moderate (3/5), and shedding low (2/5). Suitability for children, other dogs, and apartment living is rated moderate (3/5 each). Recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Norwich Terrier at a glance
Sizesmall
Breed groupTerrier
OriginEast Anglia, England
Lifespan12–15 years
Male weight5–5.5 kilogram
Female weight5–5.5 kilogram
Male height23–25 centimetre
Female height23–25 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Norwich Terrier was developed in East Anglia, England, in the 1880s as a rugged earth-dog for ratting and fox bolting. It was originally grouped with the Norfolk Terrier; the two were officially separated in 1964 based on ear carriage—the Norwich has prick ears, while the Norfolk has drop ears. The breed's history is tied to its working roots in the English countryside, but specific details about its early development are not fully documented. Recognition by kennel clubs varies by registry; for example, the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1979, but other registries may have different dates or statuses. The breed's origins in East Anglia and its terrier group classification are well-established, but the exact timeline of its spread and recognition is not uniformly recorded.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
5–5.5 kilogramAdult weight23–25 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesWiry, DoubleCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Alertenergeticaffectionatecourageousoutgoing
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Lower shedding tendency
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Norwich Terrier-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Norwich Terrier puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight5–5.5 kilogramAdult female weight5–5.5 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Norwich Terrier?
Estimated adult weight is 5–5.5 kg for both males and females. Estimated adult height is 23–25 cm. Estimated lifespan is 12–15 years. These are modelled estimates, not exact measurements.
What is the Norwich Terrier's temperament like?
Commonly described as alert, energetic, affectionate, courageous, and outgoing. However, individual dogs may vary; not every Norwich Terrier will display all these traits.
How much exercise does a Norwich Terrier need?
Energy level is rated 4 out of 5, indicating high energy. Regular daily exercise is recommended, but specific needs depend on the individual dog.
What are the grooming requirements?
Grooming needs are rated 3 out of 5 (moderate). The coat is wiry and double, requiring regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping. Shedding is low (2/5).
Is the Norwich Terrier good for families with children or other dogs?
Child suitability is rated 3 out of 5 (moderate). Dog compatibility is also 3 out of 5. Individual temperament and socialization play a large role.
Can a Norwich Terrier live in an apartment?
Apartment suitability is rated 3 out of 5 (moderate). They can adapt to apartment living if given enough exercise, but their energy level should be considered.
Where does the Norwich Terrier originate from?
The breed originated in East Anglia, England, developed in the 1880s as a working earth-dog for ratting and fox bolting. It was originally grouped with the Norfolk Terrier until official separation in 1964 based on ear carriage.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.