Norwich Terrier
5-5.5 kg
25-26 cm at the shoulder
12-15 years
United Kingdom (East Anglia)
About the Norwich Terrier
The Norwich Terrier is one of the smallest working terriers, characterized by its prick ears and stocky, 'cobby' build. Despite its diminutive stature, it possesses immense substance and bone, reflecting its history as a rugged vermin hunter in the English countryside. It is distinguished from its close relative, the Norfolk Terrier, primarily by its upright ears and slightly more independent yet social disposition. In the home, the Norwich is a spirited companion that thrives on human interaction. They are remarkably sturdy for their size and maintain a puppy-like curiosity well into their senior years. While they are true terriers with a keen prey drive, they are known for being more agreeable and less prone to dog-on-dog aggression than many of their cousins, making them excellent candidates for multi-pet households when properly socialised.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
The Norwich Terrier in the ring must exhibit a 'demon' expression—keen, sharp, and full of spirit. Their movement is characterized by a true, low-to-the-ground drive with great power coming from the hindquarters. The coat is a critical hallmark; it must be hard and wiry, forming a slight ruff around the neck.
In Australia
The first Norwich Terrier arrived in Australia in 1963, imported by Mrs. L. Richardson as documented by the Norwich Terrier Club of Victoria. Included in the early history of the breed is a female named Ch. Ragus Sequin.
Bred For
Small vermin hunting (ratting) and bolting foxes from dens during hunts.
Temperament
Affectionate, plucky, hardy, and energetic; notably less quarrelsome than other terrier breeds.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
Norwich Upper Airway Syndrome (NUAS), , , , and primary .
Grooming Needs
Moderate; requires regular brushing and professional hand-stripping twice a year to maintain coat texture.
Living Suitability
Highly adaptable; well-suited to apartment living if exercised daily, but thrives with access to a secure yard.
Good with Kids
Generally good with children, though better suited to older children who respect their small size.
Good with Other Pets
Good with other dogs; high prey drive means caution is needed with small pocket pets or cats.
Trainability
Highly intelligent and eager to please, though they possess a typical terrier streak of independence.
Coat & Colours
Hard, wiry, and straight double coat with a thick undercoat.. All shades of red, wheaten, black and tan, or grizzle.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Norwich Terriers are predisposed to Norwich Upper Airway Syndrome (NUAS), a complex respiratory condition that can cause snoring, wheezing, or heat intolerance; owners should monitor breathing and avoid over-exertion in hot weather. Their small mouths make them more likely to develop dental disease or overcrowded teeth—regular teeth cleaning or raw bone chewing is essential. Like many terriers, they can be prone to skin allergies (atopy) which may cause itching or redness; many thrive when moved from grain-heavy kibble to a fresh, limited-ingredient diet. They possess a high prey drive, so the 'zoomies' in an unfenced area can be risky as they may chase small animals. While they don't shed much, their coat requires hand-stripping to remain weather-resistant; clipping can soften the coat and dull the colour. They are 'food motivated' and predisposed to weight gain, so strict portion control is a must to protect their joints. They can be vocal if bored, but a well-exercised Norwich is typically a quiet, contented housemate.
Feeding Guide for Your Norwich Terrier
Healthy Weight
5-5.5 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
100-165 grams
A fresh or raw diet should be calculated at approximately 2-3% of the dog's ideal adult weight. For a typical 5.25kg Norwich, this equates to roughly 105g to 157g of food per day, divided into two meals. Adjust portions based on activity levels to prevent obesity, which is a common concern for this breed.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
High-quality protein-rich diet; highly responsive to fresh, raw diets that support dental health and weight management.
A balanced raw diet featuring Majestik's lean proteins such as Kangaroo or Beef to maintain a healthy weight. Include finely ground bone for calcium and small amounts of organ meats (liver/kidney) for essential vitamins. Appropriately selected raw meaty bones may provide chewing enrichment, but they do not replace veterinary dental care and can present choking, tooth-fracture or gastrointestinal risks. Supplement with small amounts of leafy greens and omega-3 fatty acids for skin health.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Norwich Terrier Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Norwich Terrier? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
1-3 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.