Norfolk Terrier vs Polish Lowland Sheepdog

Terrier · Small vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • Polish Lowland Sheepdog is the larger breed at 30–50 lbs (males) vs 11–12 lbs for the Norfolk Terrier.
  • The Norfolk Terrier typically lives longer (12–16 years).

Side-by-side traits

TraitNorfolk TerrierPolish Lowland Sheepdog
Group
TerrierHerding
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
EnglandPoland
Height (male)
9–10"18–20"
Height (female)
9–10"17–19"
Weight (male)
11–12 lbs30–50 lbs
Weight (female)
11–12 lbs30–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–16 years12–14 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)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
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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.

About the Polish Lowland Sheepdog

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog is a clever, lively, perceptive Polish shaggy herder — shaggy-coated dog known for memory and adaptability. Originally from Poland, this medium herding breed typically weighs 30–50 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as clever, lively, perceptive.

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Norfolk Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye problems

Polish Lowland Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders