Norfolk Terrier vs Portuguese Water Dog
Terrier · Small vs Working · Medium
Norfolk TerrierSmall
A fearless, alert, gregarious drop-eared terrier — one of the smallest working terriers, fox-bolter.
Weight: 11–12 lbsLifespan: 12–16 years
Portuguese Water DogMedium
An affectionate, athletic, smart fisherman's dog — Bo Obama's breed, swims and herds fish into nets.
Weight: 42–60 lbsLifespan: 11–13 years
Quick take
- • Portuguese Water Dog is the larger breed at 42–60 lbs (males) vs 11–12 lbs for the Norfolk Terrier.
- • The Norfolk Terrier typically lives longer (12–16 years).
- • The Portuguese Water Dog is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Norfolk Terrier | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Working |
Size | Small | Medium |
Origin | England | Portugal |
Height (male) | 9–10" | 20–23" |
Height (female) | 9–10" | 17–21" |
Weight (male) | 11–12 lbs | 42–60 lbs |
Weight (female) | 11–12 lbs | 35–50 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–16 years | 11–13 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
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) | High (4/5) |
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) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | wirehaired | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | Yes |
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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 Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is an affectionate, athletic, smart fisherman's dog — Bo Obama's breed, swims and herds fish into nets. Originally from Portugal, this medium working breed typically weighs 42–60 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, athletic, smart.
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Norfolk Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye problems
Portuguese Water Dog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Storage diseases