Norfolk Terrier vs Scottish Terrier
Terrier · Small vs Terrier · Small
Norfolk TerrierSmall
A fearless, alert, gregarious drop-eared terrier — one of the smallest working terriers, fox-bolter.
Weight: 11–12 lbsLifespan: 12–16 years
Scottish TerrierSmall
An independent, confident, spirited terrier from the Scottish Highlands — the original 'Scottie'.
Weight: 19–22 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Scottish Terrier is the larger breed at 19–22 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 is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Norfolk Terrier | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Terrier |
Size | Small | Small |
Origin | England | Scotland |
Height (male) | 9–10" | 10" |
Height (female) | 9–10" | 10" |
Weight (male) | 11–12 lbs | 19–22 lbs |
Weight (female) | 11–12 lbs | 18–21 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–16 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
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 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) | High (4/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
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 | wirehaired | wirehaired |
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 Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier is an independent, confident, spirited terrier from the Scottish Highlands — the original 'Scottie'. Originally from Scotland, this small terrier breed typically weighs 19–22 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as confident, independent, spirited.
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Norfolk Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye problems
Scottish Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Scotty cramp
- • Von Willebrand's disease
- • Bladder cancer