Medium
Norfolk Terrier
The Norfolk Terrier is a small, wiry British terrier breed distinguished from the Norwich Terrier by its folded (drop) ears. The coat is hard, wiry, and close-lying — a double coat designed to withstand rough terrain and vermin hunting. Hand stripping is the traditional technique that preserves the harsh outer coat texture and correct terrier color.
Coat Type
Hard, Wiry, Close-Lying, Double Coat
Groom Every
Every 6-8 weeks
Styles Available
4 cuts
Cuts & Styles
Grooming Styles
1
Hand Strip Show Coat
Dead outer coat removed by hand to maintain the correct harsh, close-lying texture. The breed's natural outline is tidied with scissors. Required for the show ring.
2
Clippered Pet Trim
Body clipped short with legs and face tidied with scissors. Coat loses its wiry texture over time but is far more practical for non-show dogs.
3
Natural Terrier
Coat allowed to develop with minimal intervention — hand-rolled occasionally to remove dead coat. Preserves natural texture without full strip work.
4
Puppy Tidy
Light scissoring to neaten the outline and tidy around the face and ears. Appropriate for puppies before introducing full hand stripping.
Expert Advice
Care Tips
- Hand stripping maintains the harsh terrier coat texture — clipping softens it permanently, which affects both aesthetics and weather resistance.
- The Norfolk's drop ears trap moisture and debris — check and clean the ear canal weekly to prevent infections.
- Strip the coat 2-3 times per year to keep the harsh outer coat cycling correctly and maintain correct coat color.
- Brush weekly with a slicker brush between strip sessions to remove dead undercoat and keep the coat lying flat.
- The terrier coat is designed to be dirt-resistant — avoid over-bathing, which strips natural oils and softens the harsh texture.
- A stripping stone or terrier palm pad works well for rolling the coat between full strip sessions.
Recommended Tools
What you'll need
Miller's Forge Quality Nail Clipper
Nail CareUsed by professional groomers worldwide. Made of high-quality Italian stainless steel with a heavy-duty spring for clean, sharp cuts.
$10 - $15
Andis UltraEdge Super 2-Speed Detachable Blade Clipper
ToolProfessional grade clippers that stay cool. Perfect for full body grooms and thick coats.
$180 - $220
Mars Coat King Undercoat Rake
BrushThe ultimate tool for double-coated breeds. Strips dead undercoat without damaging the guard hairs.
$40 - $60
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Deep Dives
Norfolk Terrier Grooming Guides
Summer Grooming
Heat management, coat care, and seasonal tips.
Read guide
Winter Coat Care
Cold-weather protection and moisture balance.
Read guide
Shedding Season
Survive the seasonal blowout without losing your mind.
Read guide
Prevent Matting
Detangle, prevent, and protect their coat year-round.
Read guide
Best Brushes
The right tools for this specific coat type.
Read guide
Nail Trimming
Safe nail care frequency and technique.
Read guide
Ear Cleaning
Prevent infections with proper ear care.
Read guide
Bathing Guide
How often to bathe and which products to use.
Read guide
Grooming Cost
What professional grooming should cost for this breed.
Read guide
Hypoallergenic
Shedding, dander, and allergy-friendly coat care.
Read guide
First-Time Owner
Grooming basics for new owners of this breed.
Read guide
Skin & Allergies
Itchy skin, hot spots, and coat-sensitive care.
Read guide
Dental Care
Oral hygiene tied to coat and skin health.
Read guide
Flea & Tick
Parasite prevention without damaging the coat.
Read guide
Pro vs DIY
When to groom at home and when to hire a pro.
Read guide
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