Australian Kelpie vs Norfolk Terrier
Herding · Medium vs Terrier · Small
Australian KelpieMedium
A clever, devoted, energetic Australian sheep musterer — outback workaholic with an off-switch problem.
Weight: 35–50 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Norfolk TerrierSmall
A fearless, alert, gregarious drop-eared terrier — one of the smallest working terriers, fox-bolter.
Weight: 11–12 lbsLifespan: 12–16 years
Quick take
- • Australian Kelpie is the larger breed at 35–50 lbs (males) vs 11–12 lbs for the Norfolk Terrier.
- • The Norfolk Terrier typically lives longer (12–16 years).
- • The Australian Kelpie has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Norfolk Terrier sheds less.
- • The Australian Kelpie is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Australian Kelpie | Norfolk Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Herding | Terrier |
Size | Medium | Small |
Origin | Australia | England |
Height (male) | 17–20" | 9–10" |
Height (female) | 15–18" | 9–10" |
Weight (male) | 35–50 lbs | 11–12 lbs |
Weight (female) | 30–45 lbs | 11–12 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 years | 12–16 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Moderate (3/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very Low (1/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Low (2/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | short | wirehaired |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
Ad slot · compare-mid
About the Australian Kelpie
The Australian Kelpie is a clever, devoted, energetic Australian sheep musterer — outback workaholic with an off-switch problem. Originally from Australia, this medium herding breed typically weighs 35–50 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as clever, devoted, energetic.
About the Norfolk Terrier
The Norfolk Terrier is a fearless, alert, gregarious drop-eared terrier — one of the smallest working terriers, fox-bolter. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 11–12 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as fearless, alert, gregarious.
Ad slot · compare-bottom
Australian Kelpie health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Cerebellar abiotrophy
- • Cryptorchidism
Norfolk Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye problems