German Shorthaired Pointer vs Norfolk Terrier
Sporting · Large vs Terrier · Small
German Shorthaired PointerLarge
A friendly, smart, willing-to-please all-around hunting and family dog with a liver-spotted coat.
Weight: 55–70 lbsLifespan: 10–12 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
- • German Shorthaired Pointer is the larger breed at 55–70 lbs (males) vs 11–12 lbs for the Norfolk Terrier.
- • The Norfolk Terrier typically lives longer (12–16 years).
- • The German Shorthaired Pointer has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Norfolk Terrier sheds less.
- • The German Shorthaired Pointer is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | German Shorthaired Pointer | Norfolk Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Terrier |
Size | Large | Small |
Origin | Germany | England |
Height (male) | 23–25" | 9–10" |
Height (female) | 21–23" | 9–10" |
Weight (male) | 55–70 lbs | 11–12 lbs |
Weight (female) | 45–60 lbs | 11–12 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–12 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. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | short | wirehaired |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
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About the German Shorthaired Pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer is a friendly, smart, willing-to-please all-around hunting and family dog with a liver-spotted coat. Originally from Germany, this large sporting breed typically weighs 55–70 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, smart, willing to please.
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.
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German Shorthaired Pointer health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Eye conditions
- • Lymphedema
Norfolk Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye problems