Norfolk Terrier
The Norfolk Terrier is described by the AKC as alert, fearless, fun-loving, a member of the Terrier Group, originally from England.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 9-10 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 11-12 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–16+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Alert / Fearless / Fun-Loving [1] |
| AKC group | Terrier Group [1] |
| Origin | England [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 126 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Long walks, socializing, and games of fetch with his owner will expend some of the Norfolk's boundless energy. With his active nature and extremely high prey drive, the Norfolk should be on leash while on outings, and his yard should be fenced. [1]
Grooming
A Norfolk Terrier should have a double coat consisting of a hard outer coat and a soft undercoat that insulates the body from heat and cold. Hand-stripping removes old outer hairs and excess undercoat so that new hair can grow in. Wire coats that are cared for properly by hand-stripping have a beautiful shine and rich color. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Norfolk Terriers are generally healthy dogs, and responsible breeders test their stock for health conditions such as heart and eye issues and patellar luxation. A Norfolk's teeth should be brushed often using a toothpaste formulated for dogs. Regular visits to the vet for checkups and parasite control help to ensure your dog will have a long, healthy life. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Patella Evaluation, Cardiac Exam, Ophthalmologist Exam. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a small dog (median $508) | $273 – $1,110 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, small dog | $352 – $1,258 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, small dog | $435 – $1,484 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Norfolk Terrier in 1979. [1]
- It ranked No. 126 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 131 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Norfolk.” [1]
- The AKC lists England as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 3 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Patella Evaluation, Cardiac Exam. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 5/5)
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Close neighbors or thin walls: AKC rates barking 4/5
Common questions
How long do Norfolk Terriers live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-16 years.
How big does a Norfolk Terrier get?
AKC breed information lists height 9-10 inches and weight 11-12 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Norfolk Terrier?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For small dogs like the Norfolk Terrier, a typical vet bill runs $273 – $1,110 (median $508). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.