Great Dane vs Norfolk Terrier
Working · Giant vs Terrier · Small
Great DaneGiant
A friendly, patient, dependable giant — the 'Apollo of dogs' is sweet-natured despite imposing size.
Weight: 140–175 lbsLifespan: 7–10 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
- • Great Dane is the larger breed at 140–175 lbs (males) vs 11–12 lbs for the Norfolk Terrier.
- • The Norfolk Terrier typically lives longer (12–16 years).
- • The Norfolk Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Norfolk Terrier sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Great Dane | Norfolk Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Working | Terrier |
Size | Giant | Small |
Origin | Germany | England |
Height (male) | 30–32" | 9–10" |
Height (female) | 28–30" | 9–10" |
Weight (male) | 140–175 lbs | 11–12 lbs |
Weight (female) | 110–140 lbs | 11–12 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 7–10 years | 12–16 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Moderate (3/5) | 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 High (5/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Low (2/5) | 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. | High (4/5) | 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 Great Dane
The Great Dane is a friendly, patient, dependable giant — the 'Apollo of dogs' is sweet-natured despite imposing size. Originally from Germany, this giant working breed typically weighs 140–175 lbs and lives 7–10 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, patient, dependable.
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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Great Dane health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Bloat
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart disease
- • Cancer
Norfolk Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye problems