Norfolk Terrier

Brushing Routine

Brush 2-3 times weekly with a slicker brush followed by a metal comb to work through the wiry, close-lying coat. Hand-strip every 8-12 weeks to maintain the hard topcoat texture. Use a stripping knife to pull dead coat from the neck, shoulders, and back where it grows thickest.

Bathing Tips

Bathe every 6-8 weeks with a texturizing shampoo designed for wire coats. The Norfolk's coat has natural dirt-resistant properties, so over-bathing strips beneficial oils. Towel dry and let the coat air-dry to maintain its natural rough texture.

Common Issues

• Matting in the longer furnishings on legs and belly
• Soft, cottony coat development if clipped instead of stripped
• Ear hair buildup blocking airflow in drop ears
• Tear staining on lighter-colored faces
• Skin irritation from environmental allergens

Extend Your Grooming Results

Comb through leg furnishings daily to prevent mats from forming. Pluck excess ear hair monthly to maintain airflow. Between professional strips, roll the coat weekly with your fingers or a stripping stone to pull loose dead hair before it mats into the undercoat.

Seasonal Care

Norfolk Terriers shed minimally but blow their undercoat in spring and fall, requiring more frequent stripping during transitions. In Houston's humid summers, keep the belly trimmed shorter and check ears weekly for moisture-related infections. Their wiry coat actually insulates against heat.

Maintenance Schedule

Brush 2-3 times weekly, daily leg furnishing combing, ear hair plucking monthly, ear cleaning weekly, nail trims every 3 weeks, hand-strip every 8-12 weeks, professional grooming every 6-8 weeks.