'Stubborn little bearers of total joy'

Norfolk terriers may be small and feisty, but their immense courage, intelligence and sheer joy of life have won over everyone from members of the Royal Family to Formula 1 champions

- Katy Birchall

MY Norfolk terriers are a hardy little pack,’ reveals Sarah, Duchess of York, whose dogs welcomed the two corgis belonging to the late Queen to their ranks last year. ‘All five have unique personalities that bond together with such loyalty and love. They are feisty and confident, with incredible sporting instincts, always game for an adventure.’

Noting that the sweet eyes and ever-wagging tail of this plucky terrier can be utterly disarming—‘don’t let them fool you, no rodent is safe in the garden’—the Duchess adds that the devotion of Norfolks means her pack is never far from her side.

‘Norfolk terriers have a sense of wanting to make sure you are in harmony,’ she says. ‘They will follow you around and sit on your lap and not move until you feel happy. I call them stubborn little bearers of total joy.’

With its cheery disposition, compact stature, attractive wiry coat and handsome expression—not to mention those famously endear- ing drop ears—it’s hard to believe that the Norfolk terrier has been added to the Kennel Club’s ‘at watch’ list of native breeds, having seen only 423 registrations last year. Suitable for both rural and urban life, the small, but mighty Norfolk is a fun and spirited companion, boasting all the most appealing characteristics of a terrier: it’s courageous, energetic, loyal and affectionate.