Side-by-side comparison of two popular breeds — temperament, exercise, grooming, lifespan and common health issues. Use it to decide which breed fits your home.
The Norfolk Terrier (5–6 kg, 12–15 years) and the Yorkshire Terrier (2–3 kg, 13–16 years) sit in different — or sometimes overlapping — corners of dog ownership. Here's how they really compare for an everyday Irish or UK family.
Both breeds have similar energy demands — Norfolk Terrier tips slightly higher but neither is a couch dog.
Grooming is where these breeds really diverge: the Yorkshire Terrier needs significantly more brushing, washing and coat care. Factor in €30–€80 every 6–8 weeks for a professional groomer if you don't do it yourself.
If you have young children, the Norfolk Terrier is the clearly more child-friendly choice.
For allergy sufferers, the Yorkshire Terrier is the lower-shed, more hypoallergenic option.
Insurance premiums for breeds with brachycephalic, joint or cancer predispositions run 20–40% above average — check before you commit. We have a free quote calculator here.
 Norfolk Terrier |
 Yorkshire Terrier |
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Terrier | Toy |
| Origin | England | Yorkshire, England |
| Weight | 5–6 kg | 2–3 kg |
| Height | 23–25 cm | 20–23 cm |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years | 13–16 years |
| Energy level | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Good with kids | ||
| Good with other pets | ||
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Watchdog instinct | ||
| Novice-owner OK |
Norfolk TerrierAffectionate, fearless, friendly. Pack-orientated and good with other dogs.
45–60 minutes daily.
Wire double coat. Hand-strip every 8–10 weeks. Weekly brush.
Generally healthy. Watch for: mitral valve disease, hip dysplasia, atopy.
Full Norfolk Terrier profile →
Yorkshire TerrierConfident, brave, affectionate, sometimes feisty. Yorkies often think they're the size of a German Shepherd and will challenge larger dogs. Bond very closely with one person. Can be yappy without training.
30–45 minutes a day plus indoor play. Two short walks plus mental work is enough. Yorkies are easy to over-exercise — their joints are tiny.
Daily brushing if kept in a long coat. Most owners opt for a "puppy cut" every 6–8 weeks. Hair grows continuously and doesn't shed (good for allergies). Tear staining around eyes is common — wipe daily.
Tracheal collapse (use a harness, never a collar). Patellar luxation. Liver shunts (puppy screen test). Dental disease (small mouths, crowded teeth — daily brushing essential). Hypoglycaemia in young puppies.
Full Yorkshire Terrier profile →Families, multi-pet homes, urban / suburban.
Apartment-dwellers, allergy-sensitive owners, retirees, anyone wanting a long-lived pocket-sized companion.
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