Norfolk Terrier

The Norfolk Terrier does well on a high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian's supervision and approval. Match the diet to your dog's age and size, and keep clean, fresh water available at all times.

Adults do well with two measured feedings per day. Puppies should eat three to four small meals daily on a regular schedule to help maintain stable blood sugar. How much a Norfolk should eat depends on size, metabolism, neuter status, health history, and activity level, so talk with your veterinarian, who can calculate specific caloric needs.

Watch how much your Norfolk eats and reduce portions if your pup gains weight. Too many treats on top of regular meals contribute to obesity.

Norfolks need a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Some may benefit from added omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, in some skin and joint supplements, and in some specially formulated dog foods. These fatty acids help support the skin, coat, kidneys, joints, and heart.

The Norfolk carries a double coat: a hard, wiry outer coat over a soft undercoat that insulates against heat and cold. It benefits from hand-stripping, which pulls dead hairs from the outer coat and excess hair from the undercoat so new hair can grow in. Wire coats cared for this way keep a shine and rich color. Hand-stripping happens a few times per year, especially during the twice-yearly coat blowing, so learning to do it, or finding a groomer who will, is worth considering before choosing this breed.

Norfolks do not shed excessively. Bathe about every four to six weeks with a gentle dog shampoo, and take care not to over-bathe, since bathing more often than every two weeks strips the coat's oils.

The folded-over ears make Norfolks prone to ear infections, as moisture and debris get trapped in the canal. Clean the ears every one or two weeks for maintenance, and if you notice redness, odor, or debris, consult your veterinarian. Wipe the eyes daily with a soft, moist cloth or veterinary-approved wipe, and carefully trim the hair around them so it does not cause irritation. Squinting or eye discharge warrants a vet visit.

Trim the nails and maintain regular dental care.

The Norfolk craves both physical and mental exercise. Long walks, mingling with other pets and people, and games of fetch all help expend that energy. True to terrier nature, this dog needs an outlet to stay out of trouble, and a bored Norfolk may bark excessively, dig in the yard, or turn destructive.

Norfolks also seem to enjoy dog sports, including agility, racing, lure coursing, tracking, musical freestyle, and water sports. These dogs love adventure, so they are less happy in a sedentary household. Expend that energy through playtime and long walks before leaving your Norfolk alone for extended periods.

Norfolks were bred to hunt in packs and are social. They are very smart and bond closely with their families, though they often have an independent streak and may test their owner's limits.

Obedience training is a must, started early and kept firm but gentle. Use motivational tools like tasty treats and favorite toys to soften sensitivity and stubbornness. Norfolks are eager to please and respond quickly, especially with positive reinforcement through games, praise, and food rewards.

Socialize Norfolk puppies with people, pets, and children before 12 weeks of age. Puppy classes with age-appropriate vaccination requirements can support that process.

Norfolks carry a strong prey drive and do not always live in harmony with cats, and that drive can pose a danger to small pets in the home such as ferrets and hamsters. For that reason, do not allow a Norfolk off leash in areas that are not securely fenced. Norfolks are known for their patience and love of children, which makes them fine family dogs, but as with any dog, supervise interactions around children and other animals.