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Training a Norfolk Terrier: what works and what to expect

How the Norfolk Terrier learns, common training challenges and what motivates it.

For a terrier, the Norfolk is fairly cooperative, but it still has an independent streak and a strong sense of what is interesting. Short, upbeat sessions with food rewards work well, and many enjoy trick training. Keep things varied and stop before the dog gets bored.

Common challenges include recall, digging and house training, which can take longer in small breeds. Practice recall on a long line in open spaces, give the dog a legal digging spot such as a sandpit, and keep a consistent toileting routine with plenty of praise outdoors.

Norfolk Terrier training in numbers

Easy to train

Barking

5 means very vocal

Copes with alone time

Open with strangers

Good with other dogs

Good with children

Training guides for similar-sized breeds