The Norfolk Terrier shares an identical early history with the Norwich Terrier. During the development of these breeds, both prick and drop ears were seen, and neither could lay claim to being more authentic or original than the other. In the 1930s, soon after their entry into the show rings, breeders found that crossing the two types of ear carriage resulted in uncertain ear carriage in the offspring, so they began avoiding crossing the two ear types. The prick-eared Norfolk Terrier was more numerous; in fact, the drop-eared type almost vanished during World War II. The drop-eared strain owes its existence to the single-handed and determined efforts of Miss Macfie of the Colansays. In the 1940s, breeders came to her to renew breeding the drop-eared type of Norwich, and they soon caught up with the prick-eared Norfolk Terrier in popularity, although not in show awards.
Eventually, amid some controversy, the Norfolk Terrier was officially changed from one breed with two varieties to two separate breeds.

Appearance
The Norfolk Terriers are the smallest of the working Terriers. They are active and compact, free moving, with good substance and bone. Good substance means good spring of rib and bone that matches the body such that the Norfolk Terrier can be a very agile ratter, the function for which it was bred.

Norfolk Terriers are moderately proportioned dogs. A too heavy dog would not be agile. A too refined dog would make it a toy breed. Norfolk Terriers generally have more reach and drive and a stronger rear angulation, hence cover more ground than their Norwich cousins. Norfolk Terrier have good side gait owed to their balanced angulation front and rear, not their perceived slightly longer length of back as is often cited.

Character
Norfolk Terriers are described as fearless but should not be aggressive despite being capable of defending themselves if need be. They, along with Norwich Terriers and Border Terriers, have the softest temperaments of the Terrier Group. Norfolk Terriers work in packs and must get along with other dogs. As companions in the home they love people and children and do make good pets. Their activity level is generally reflective of the pace of their environment. This breed should not be kept or live outside since they thrive on human contact. Generally Norfolk Terrierss are not given to unnecessary barking or digging but, like any dog, will do either out of boredom when left alone for too long a period. They generally cohabitate well with other household pets when introduced as a puppy. Though, in the outdoors the Norfolk Terriers are natural hunters with a strong prey drive for small vermin.
 

Temperament
The Norfolk Terrier is a spunky energetic dog and is always in the mood to play, especially with children. The Norfolk Terrier loves being a part of the family. This breed will dig if not given something to occupy its quick mind. Norfolk Terriers are self confident and carry themselves with presence and importance, holding their heads and tails erect. A Norfolk that is shy, or carries its tail between its legs is untypical as is a dog that is hot tempered and aggressive with other dogs; these are not the standard. A Norfolk Terrier's typical breed temperament is happy, spirited and self confident. The greatest punishment to a Norfolk Terrier is his human companion ignoring him.

Exercise/Training
The Norfolk Terrier needs an exercise outing every day, either a short to moderate walk or a lively and boisterous play session. The Norfolk Terrier especially likes to hunt and investigate, but it must do so in a safe area. Playing and obedience are very good types of mental exercise. 15 minutes obedience and playing with your Norfolk Terrier will be more useful for the dogs exercise then an hour walk on the leash can provide.

Color
The Norfolk Terrier has a wire-haired coat which, according to the various national kennel club breed standards, can be "all shades of red, wheaten, black and tan, or grizzle."

Grooming
The wire coat of the Norfolk Terrier needs combing once or twice weekly, plus stripping of dead hairs three to four times yearly. A good nutrition and regular brushing keeps the proper coat shine and the skin healthy. Bathing doesn’t harm the coat of the Norfolk Terrier as long as you use a good quality shampoo that doesn't dry the skin and coat and is formulated for a canine coat. The ears of the Norfolk Terrier should be kept clean and regularly inspected as well.

Any breed described as "good with children", the dog must be accustomed to children. Any dog that is not well socialized with children will not behave predictably around them. As with all dogs, they should never be left alone with young children.