Norfolk Terrier vs West Highland White Terrier
Breed Compatibility
100% Compatible
Energy Level
Norfolk Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
West Highland White Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Norfolk Terrier: Agreeable0.6
West Highland White Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Norfolk Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
West Highland White Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Norfolk Terrier5/5
West Highland White Terrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Norfolk Terrier3/5
West Highland White Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Norfolk Terrier5/5
West Highland White Terrier4/5
Living Requirements
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
West Highland White Terrier
Craniomandibular Osteopathy: Jaw bone growth
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Addison's Disease: Hormone deficiency
White Shaker Syndrome: Tremor condition
Pulmonary Fibrosis: Lung tissue scarring
Skin Allergies: Dermatological issues
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
West Highland White Terrier
Pros
Adaptable to different living situations
Good with families
Low-shedding coat
Alert watchdog
Cons
Can be stubborn
Regular grooming required
May chase small animals
Can be vocal
Norfolk Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Norfolk Terriers were bred to be fearless ratters and could work alongside foxhounds.
West Highland White Terrier Fun Fact
Their white coat was specifically bred after a farmer accidentally shot his reddish-brown terrier, mistaking it for a fox!
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.
West Highland White Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Scotland during the 1800s, these terriers were bred to hunt rats, foxes, and other vermin in the Scottish Highlands, with their white coat making them easily distinguishable from prey.
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.
West Highland White Terrier
Regular grooming is essential for their double coat. They need consistent training to manage terrier stubbornness and require proper socialization to prevent small animal chasing.
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