NORWICH TERRIER Breed Standards
The Norwich Terrier originated around the 1880s in East Anglia, England, when ratting terriers became fashionable among Cambridge University students. Around the turn of the century, one of these Trumpington Terriers (as they were then known), “Rags,” was moved to a stable near Norwich, England, where for two generations he and his progeny were bred to other terriers. The Norwich Terrier developed from this breeding. In 1914, a Norwich Terrier named “Willum” was introduced to America. The breed was officially recognized by the English Kennel Club in 1932, and by the American Kennel Club in 1936.
In 1964, the English Kennel Club separated the dropped ear variety of Norwich into a separate breed, the Norfolk Terrier, and the American Kennel Club did the same in 1979. Since then the two have become visually distinct. Today, the Norwich Terrier is a serious competitor in the show ring and a modestly popular house pet.
SKILLS: The Norwich Terrier, spirited and stocky with sensitive prick ears and a slightly foxy expression, is one of the smallest working terriers. This sturdy descendent of ratting companions, eager to dispatch small vermin alone or in a pack, has good bone and substance and an almost weatherproof coat. A hardy hunt terrier-honorable scars from fair wear and tear are acceptable.
SIZE: One of the smallest of the terriers, the ideal height should not exceed 10 inches at the withers. Distance from the top of the withers to the ground and from the withers to base of tail are approximately equal. Good bone and substance. Weight approximately 12 pounds. It should be in proportion to the individual dog's structure and balance. Fit working condition is a prime consideration.
COAT: Hard, wiry and straight, lying close to the body with a definite undercoat. The coat on neck and shoulders forms a protective mane. The hair on head, ears and muzzle, except for slight eyebrows and whiskers, is short and smooth. This breed should be shown with as natural a coat as possible. A minimum of tidying is permissible but shaping should be heavily penalized.
Color - all shades of red, wheaten, black and tan or grizzle. White marks are not desirable.
CARE REQUIRED: The shaggy, medium-length, waterproof coat is relatively easy to care for, but daily combing and brushing is important. Little clipping is required. Take extra care when the dog is shedding. Bathe and dry shampoo only when necessary. This breed is a light shedder.
CHARACTER: Gay, fearless, loyal and affectionate. Adaptable and sporting, they make ideal companions.
EXERCISE: These little dogs were bred to work. They are energetic and thrive on an active life, but they won't sulk if you miss a day now and then.
SOCIAL BEHAVIOR: The Norwich Terrier will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard.
TRAINING: They love toys and balls and are generally good with other pets, but can be difficult to housebreak. Norwich Terriers should not be let off of their lead unless secure.
