Brittany vs Norfolk Terrier

Sporting · Medium vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Brittany is the larger breed at 30–40 lbs (males) vs 11–12 lbs for the Norfolk Terrier.
  • The Norfolk Terrier typically lives longer (12–16 years).
  • The Brittany has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Norfolk Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBrittanyNorfolk Terrier
Group
SportingTerrier
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
FranceEngland
Height (male)
17.5–20.5"9–10"
Height (female)
17.5–20.5"9–10"
Weight (male)
30–40 lbs11–12 lbs
Weight (female)
30–40 lbs11–12 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years12–16 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)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.
Low (2/5)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
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
mediumwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
Ad slot · compare-mid

About the Brittany

The Brittany is a bright, fun-loving, upbeat pointer-spaniel hybrid — energetic, athletic gundog and lively companion. Originally from France, this medium sporting breed typically weighs 30–40 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as bright, fun-loving, upbeat.

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

Brittany health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Epilepsy
  • Hypothyroidism

Norfolk Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye problems