Norfolk Terrier vs Smooth Fox 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
Smooth Fox TerrierSmall
A friendly, independent, amusing English fox-bolter — sleek smooth-coated cousin of Wire Fox.
Weight: 17–19 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Smooth Fox Terrier is the larger breed at 17–19 lbs (males) vs 11–12 lbs for the Norfolk Terrier.
- • The Norfolk Terrier typically lives longer (12–16 years).
- • The Smooth Fox Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Norfolk Terrier sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Norfolk Terrier | Smooth Fox Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Terrier |
Size | Small | Small |
Origin | England | England |
Height (male) | 9–10" | 15" |
Height (female) | 9–10" | 15" |
Weight (male) | 11–12 lbs | 17–19 lbs |
Weight (female) | 11–12 lbs | 15–17 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–16 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
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) | Moderate (3/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
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) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
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) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | wirehaired | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
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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 Smooth Fox Terrier
The Smooth Fox Terrier is a friendly, independent, amusing English fox-bolter — sleek smooth-coated cousin of Wire Fox. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 17–19 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, independent, amusing.
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Norfolk Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye problems
Smooth Fox Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders
- • Deafness