Norwich Terrier
Also known as: Norwich
Norwich Terriers are small but perfectly formed — short, sturdy dogs with a wiry weatherproof coat, a little fox-like face and characteristic satellite-dish erect ears. Despite their tiny size they are confident, energetic and have a will of their own. Originally bred to flush foxes from their dens.
About
Norwich Terriers are small but perfectly formed — short, sturdy dogs with a wiry weatherproof coat, a little fox-like face and characteristic satellite-dish erect ears. Despite their tiny size they are confident, energetic and have a will of their own. Originally bred to flush foxes from their dens.
History
The Norwich Terrier has been around for over 100 years. Their ancestors may have included the Border Terrier and a red terrier from Ireland. During the late 1800s, Norwich Terriers were the mascot of Cambridge University students. Originally used as barnyard ratters and foxhunting dogs, their small stature made them perfect for scurrying into fox dens.
Care & Health
Common concerns include skin problems and genetic eye conditions — ask breeders for health certifications. Heart murmurs should be screened by a cardiologist before breeding. The Norwich is independent enough to develop bad habits if training is inconsistent — be firm but positive from day one.
Quick Facts
- Origin
- England
- Life Span
- 13–14 years
- Size
- small
- Hair Shed
- little
- Grooming
- Once a week
- Good with Kids
- medium
- Exercise Needs
- medium
- Feeding Cost
- $5–$10 p/w
- Colours
- Red, wheaten, tan, black and tan, or grizzle.
Exercise
Exercise needs: medium
Will adapt to city life but prefers country. Needs regular long walks and enjoys digging. Active indoors so gets some exercise naturally.
Health Considerations
Recommended Insurance for Norwich Terrier
Norwich Terriers are predisposed to several health conditions that can result in significant veterinary bills.
- ■Upper Airway Syndrome — typical treatment cost: $1,000–$5,000+
- ■Epilepsy — typical treatment cost: $500–$3,000/year ongoing
- ■Patellar Luxation — typical treatment cost: $1,500–$4,000 per knee
- ■Hip Dysplasia — typical treatment cost: $3,000–$8,000
A comprehensive pet insurance policy can help cover the cost of diagnostics, surgery and ongoing treatment for these conditions. Many Australian providers offer plans starting from around $30–$60 per month for smaller breeds, with annual benefit limits of $10,000–$25,000.
🛡️ Don’t wait until it’s too late
Pre-existing conditions are never covered. Insuring your Norwich Terrier while they’re young and healthy gives you the broadest coverage at the lowest premium.
See which pet insurance plans suit Norwich Terriers →Grooming
Hard adult coat needs hand-plucking twice a year. Regular brushing helps. Start early to avoid resistance.
