Norfolk Terrier vs Hovawart
Breed Compatibility
87% Compatible
Energy Level
Norfolk Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Hovawart: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Norfolk Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Hovawart: May be Stubborn0.2
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Norfolk Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Hovawart: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Norfolk Terrier5/5
Hovawart4/5
Good with Other Dogs
Norfolk Terrier3/5
Hovawart4/5
Good with Strangers
Norfolk Terrier5/5
Hovawart4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Norfolk Terrier
Mitral Valve Disease: Heart condition
Patellar Luxation: Knee joint issue
Dental Problems: Tooth decay risk
Eye Issues: Various conditions
Hip Problems: Joint concerns
Allergies: Skin sensitivities
Hovawart
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Eye Problems: Various ocular conditions
Heart Disease: Cardiac health concerns
Bloat: Digestive emergency risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Pros & Cons Comparison
Norfolk Terrier
Pros
Good with families
Compact size
Adaptable
Low grooming needs
Cons
Can be stubborn
May bark frequently
Prey drive
Occasional health issues
Hovawart
Pros
Loyal and protective
Intelligent
Good with family
Weather-resistant coat
Cons
Strong-willed
Needs extensive training
High exercise needs
Reserved with strangers
Norfolk Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Norfolk Terriers were bred to be fearless ratters and could work alongside foxhounds.
Hovawart Fun Fact
Hovawarts were mentioned in German law books from the 13th century as valuable property worth defending.
Heritage & Purpose
Norfolk Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Eastern England during the 1800s, these small terriers served as ratters in farms and stables, proving especially valuable in controlling vermin populations.
Hovawart
Origin:
Developed in medieval Germany as estate guardians and working farm dogs. Black Forest farmers valued these dogs for their protective instincts and versatile working abilities.
Special Considerations
Norfolk Terrier
Weekly brushing required, regular dental care important. Need secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Watch for signs of joint issues and heart problems.
Hovawart
Needs consistent training from an early age. Regular grooming during shedding seasons. Exercise requirements must be met daily to prevent behavioral issues.
Related Comparisons
Same Group
Norfolk Terrier vs Wire Fox Terrier →Same Group
Norfolk Terrier vs Welsh Terrier →Similar Size
Norfolk Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier →Similar Size
Norfolk Terrier vs Wire Fox Terrier →