In the early days, there was a diversity in type, size, color, coat and ear carriage. When the Norwich breed standard was drawn up the drop ear and the prick ear terriers remained one breed. The English Kennel Club recognized them as two breeds in 1964. The Norfolk was the drop ear variety, the Norwich was the prick ear.

In the United States, some still refer to the Norwich as a "Jones Terrier" after Frank Jones, who traveled abroad and brought the first terrier back to the United States.

The Norwich Terriers coat is hard, wiry and straight. It should be one and a half to two inches long, lying close to the body with a definite undercoat. The color should be all shades of red, wheaten, black and tan, or grizzle.

Daily combing and brushing of the shaggy coat of Norwich Terriers is suggested. Take extra care when they are shedding. You may want to have the Norwich Terrier professionally stripped a couple of times a year. Minimal clipping is needed but the hair between the pads of their feet should be trimmed. Bathe or dry shampoo only when necessary. Norwich Terriers should have daily exercise such as a walk on a leash, but an boisterous play session will also suffice.

The Norwich was just the right size to ride in a basket alongside his foxhunting master on horseback. After the Foxhounds had forced the fox underground, the terriers would be lifted out of the baskets by their docked tails and sent after the fox. The terriers had to be courageous and feisty against the fox.

These dogs are hardy, happy-go-lucky, weatherproof, and excellent with children, adults, as well as domestic animals. They are very loyal and make ideal companions.