Norfolk Terrier vs Papillon: full comparison
| Trait | Norfolk Terrier | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small | Small |
| Energy level | High | High |
| Trainability | Medium | Very High |
| Friendliness | High | High |
| Good with children | High | Medium |
| Grooming needs | Medium | Medium |
| Shedding | Medium | Medium |
| Barking | Medium | Medium |
| Protectiveness | Medium | Medium |
| Adaptability | High | Very High |
| Typical lifespan | 14 years | 15 years |
| Hypoallergenic | No | No |
Key differences at a glance
- The Papillon has noticeably higher trainability than the Norfolk Terrier.
Which should you choose?
Choose the Norfolk Terrier if you want the more child-friendly companion.
Choose the Papillon if you want an easier dog to train, you want a more adaptable dog, or you want a longer-lived breed.
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Find your perfect match Try the free quizFrequently asked questions
- Is the Norfolk Terrier or the Papillon better for families with children?
- The Norfolk Terrier tends to be the more naturally child-friendly of the two, though both can do well in family homes with early socialisation.
- Which sheds more, the Norfolk Terrier or the Papillon?
- The Norfolk Terrier and Papillon shed a similar amount (medium).
- Which is easier to train, the Norfolk Terrier or the Papillon?
- The Papillon is generally the easier of the two to train, making it a better pick for less experienced owners.