Keeshond vs Norfolk Terrier

Non-Sporting · Medium vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Keeshond is the larger breed at 35–45 lbs (males) vs 11–12 lbs for the Norfolk Terrier.
  • The Norfolk Terrier typically lives longer (12–16 years).
  • The Norfolk Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitKeeshondNorfolk Terrier
Group
Non-SportingTerrier
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
NetherlandsEngland
Height (male)
18"9–10"
Height (female)
17"9–10"
Weight (male)
35–45 lbs11–12 lbs
Weight (female)
35–45 lbs11–12 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–16 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)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.
Very High (5/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)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.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
longwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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About the Keeshond

The Keeshond is a friendly, lively, outgoing Dutch barge dog — Holland's national dog with a fluffy 'spectacles' face. Originally from Netherlands, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 35–45 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, lively, outgoing.

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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Keeshond health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart issues
  • Epilepsy

Norfolk Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye problems