Quick Links: Table of Contents
- Norfolk Terrier Versus Sussex Spaniel: Introduction
- Norfolk Terrier versus Sussex Spaniel: Overview
- Norfolk Terrier versus Sussex Spaniel: Comparison Table
- The Most Remarkable Differences Between the Norfolk Terrier and the Sussex Spaniel
- The Similarities Between the Norfolk Terrier and the Sussex Spaniel
- Size (Weight and Height) of Norfolk Terrier versus Sussex Spaniel
- Lifespan of Norfolk Terrier versus Sussex Spaniel
- Temperament of the Norfolk Terrier Versus the Sussex Spaniel
- The Popularity of Norfolk Terrier versus Popularity of Sussex Spaniel
- Tolerates Being Alone: Norfolk Terrier versus Sussex Spaniel
- Do Norfolk Terriers shed more than Sussex Spaniels?
- Which one drools more, the Norfolk Terrier or the Sussex Spaniel
- Which is Easier to Groom, the Norfolk Terrier or the Sussex Spaniel?
- Does the Norfolk Terrier Have a Higher Prey Drive than the Sussex Spaniel?
- Do Norfolk Terriers Bark and Howl? What about Sussex Spaniels?
- Can Norfolk Terriers Tolerate Cold Weather? And can Sussex Spaniels Tolerate Cold Weather?
- Wanderlust Potential: Norfolk Terrier vs. Sussex Spaniel
- Can Norfolk Terriers Tolerate Hot Weather? Can Sussex Spaniels Tolerate Hot Weather?
- Which Dog Breed is more Dog-Friendly, the Norfolk Terrier or the Sussex Spaniel?
- Are Norfolk Terriers good family dogs? What about Sussex Spaniels?
- How Kid-friendly are Norfolk Terriers and Sussex Spaniels?
- Is the Norfolk Terrier Easier to Train than the Sussex Spaniel?
- Other Dog Breeds That are Similar to the Norfolk Terrier
- Other Dog Breeds That are Similar to the Sussex Spaniel
- Other Breed Comparisons that Might Interest You
- Conclusion: Norfolk Terrier versus Sussex Spaniel. Which One is a Better Pet?
Norfolk Terrier Versus Sussex Spaniel: Introduction
Are you thinking of getting a new pet dog, and you have narrowed down your choices to the Norfolk Terrier and the Sussex Spaniel? Well, you have come to the right place. Because in this article, we will provide you with a detailed comparison of these two dog breeds to help you decide which of the Norfolk Terrier and the Sussex Spaniel better suits you.
We will provide you a detailed discussion and comparison of dog attributes such as intelligence, price, general health, friendliness, etc, for both the Norfolk Terrier and the Sussex Spaniel.
Furthermore, we will let you know which one of the Norfolk Terrier and the Sussex Spaniel is better suited for new dog owners, for owners with kids, for owners that live in apartments, for owners with dog allergies, etc.
Importantly, we did some analysis and calculation and we obtained a number that we call the Better-Pet Score™ for both the Norfolk Terrier and for the Sussex Spaniel. The dog breed with the higher Better-Pet score is the `better` pet. We hope that these Better-Pet Scores will provide you with more insight into deciding which pet to get between the Norfolk Terrier and the Sussex Spaniel.
Our only goal here is to help you make a well-thought-out decision on your next long-term companion, be it the Norfolk Terrier or the Sussex Spaniel.
Norfolk Terrier versus Sussex Spaniel: Overview
A very important difference between the Norfolk Terrier and the Sussex Spaniel is the size difference between the two dog breeds. The Norfolk Terrier is a tiny-sized dog while the Sussex Spaniel is a small-sized dog.
Furthermore, the Norfolk Terrier belongs to the Terrier Dogs group. Terrier Dogs were originally bred to go underground to hunt rodents and other small wild animals (vermin). Terriers come in a wide range of sizes and shapes, but all terriers are energetic, highly intelligent, and territorial. Terries also have the tendency to escape. They require a securely fenced yard.
On the other hand, the Sussex Spaniel belongs to the Sporting Dogs group. Sporting Dogs were bred to help hunters catch and retrieve feathered game. Some sporting dog breeds such as Retrievers, which were built for swimming, were bred to hunt waterfowl in water. Whereas sporting dog breeds like setters, spaniels, and pointing breeds were bred to hunt quail, pheasant, and other game birds nest on grasslands. Many Sporting Group breeds have thick, water-repellent coats that protect them from harsh hunting conditions.
Norfolk Terrier versus Sussex Spaniel: Comparison Table
The table below compares the Norfolk Terrier to the Sussex Spaniel based on different important factors such as Price, Health, Kid-friendliness, etc.
When a dog breed scores higher for a factor than the other dog breed, the box of the breed that scores higher is shaded green and the box of the breed that scores lower is shaded red. When there is no difference between the breeds for a particular factor then the box is shaded gray for both pets. Also, when the factor is not important in picking a pet, or when the factor cannot be compared between two pets, the box for the factor is shaded gray for both pets
Most of the factors in the table for each dog breed are ranked on a scale of 1 to 5. “1” means “worst”, and “5” means “best”.
However, some factors such as “Price”, “Average Lifespan”, etc. cannot be on a scale of 1 to 5, so they are not on a scale of 1 to 5 in the comparison table.
Later in this article, we will further explain each factor as it applies to the Norfolk Terrier and the Sussex Spaniel
| Factor | Norfolk Terrier | Sussex Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Does NOT Shed | 5/5 | 3/5 |
| Does NOT Drool | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Low Prey Drive | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Weight | 11 to 12 pounds | 35 to 45 pounds |
| Life Span | 12 to 15 years | 11 to 14 years |
| Does NOT chew on things | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Tolerates Being Alone | 3/5 | 1/5 |
| Does NOT Bark or Howl | 3/5 | 2/5 |
| Adapts Well To Apartment Living | 4/5 | 5/5 |
| Easygoing | 2/5 | 1/5 |
| Tolerates Cold Weather | 4/5 | 5/5 |
| Tolerates Hot Weather | 4/5 | 5/5 |
| Kid-Friendly | 4/5 | 5/5 |
| Friendly Toward Strangers | 4/5 | 5/5 |
| Easy To Groom | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Intelligence | 4/5 | 5/5 |
| Tendency NOT to Wander | 2/5 | 5/5 |
| NOT Rambunctious | 2/5 | 4/5 |
| Calmness/ Low Vigor | 2/5 | 5/5 |
| Minimal Exercise Needs | 2/5 | 4/5 |
| Good For Novice Owners | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Affectionate With Family | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Dog Friendly | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| General Health | 5/5 | 4/5 |
| Potential NOT to Gain Weight | 1/5 | 1/5 |
| Easy To Train | 5/5 | 3/5 |
| Potential For Playfulness | 5/5 | 4/5 |
| Height | 9 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder | 1 foot, 1 inch to 1 foot, 3 inches tall at the sho |
| Average Lifespan | 13.5 years | 12.5 years |
| Average Price | $2500 | No Data |
| Price Range | $2500 – $2500 | No Data |
| Temperament Score | 92.9 percent | 100.0 percent |
| Common Health Problems and Recommended Health Tests |
|
No Data |
| Popularity out of 200 Dog Breeds | 130 | 171 |
Next, we added the scores of the factors that can be added together for the Norfolk Terrier in the table (that is, `Ease of Grooming` score + `General Health` score + `Calmness` score + …etc) and we compared it to the corresponding total score for the Sussex Spaniel. We call these total scores the Better-Pet Scores, as we mentioned earlier. We called this score the Better-Pet score because the better dog breed will have a higher score. This is because the pet will the higher score will have minimal needs and be easier to have as a pet.
The Better-Pet score for the Norfolk Terrier is 94 out of 125 while the Better-Pet score for the Sussex Spaniel is 100 out of 125.
Based on their Better-Pet scores, the Sussex Spaniel is a better pet than the Norfolk Terrier. So, you should get the Sussex Spaniel!
Although we have done our best to analyze these two dog breeds in a very unbiased way, however, we will like to let you know that there are some dog attributes that cannot be assigned a number for comparison. We cannot put a number on how cute a dog breed is, for example. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Also, the dog breed that best suits you will depend on your peculiar lifestyle, your taste, and your priorities, which we do not know. So, for you to decide on which breed is right for you, read through the rest of the article to further understand both the Norfolk Terrier and the Sussex Spaniel so that you can make your own well-informed decision on which pet to get.
The Most Remarkable Differences Between the Norfolk Terrier and the Sussex Spaniel
Below is a list of where the Norfolk Terrier and the Sussex Spaniel are most different:
The Similarities Between the Norfolk Terrier and the Sussex Spaniel
The Norfolk Terrier and the Sussex Spaniel are very similar in certain aspects. Below is the list of where the Norfolk Terrier and the Sussex Spaniel are most similar:
Size (Weight and Height) of Norfolk Terrier versus Sussex Spaniel
Now, let us discuss the difference in size between the Norfolk Terrier and the Sussex Spaniel.
Norfolk Terriers weigh 11 to 12 pounds when fully grown. Norfolk Terriers are 9 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder when fully grown.
On the other hand, Sussex Spaniels weigh 35 to 45 pounds when fully grown. Sussex Spaniels are 1 foot, 1 inch to 1 foot, 3 inches tall at the sho when fully grown.
Lifespan of Norfolk Terrier versus Sussex Spaniel
The lifespan of Norfolk Terriers is between 12 to 15 years. The average lifespan of Norfolk Terriers is 13.5 years.
The lifespan of Sussex Spaniels is between 11 to 14 years. The average lifespan of Sussex Spaniels is 12.5 years.
Norfolk Terriers live longer than Sussex Spaniels.
Temperament of the Norfolk Terrier Versus the Sussex Spaniel
The Sussex Spaniel has a better temperament than the Norfolk Terrier.
This is because the temperament score for the Sussex Spaniel is 100.0 percent while the temperament score for the Norfolk Terrier is 92.9 percent, according to the American Temperament Test Society (ATTS).
The American Temperament Test Society (ATTS) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide fair and objective evaluations of the temperaments of dog breeds.
Dog breeds with low temperament scores tend to show unprovoked aggression, they easily panic without quickly recovering from the panic, and they tend to avoid people. However, dog breeds with high temperament scores are not aggressive and are not shy. Also, these dogs are generally friendly and are protective of their owners.
The average temperament score across all dog breeds (over 250 breeds) is 83.7 percent.
With its temperament score of 92.9 percent, the Norfolk Terrier has an above-average temperament compared to other dog breeds.
With its temperament score of 100.0 percent, the Sussex Spaniel has an above-average temperament compared to other dog breeds.
The ATTS obtained the temperament scores of the Norfolk Terrier and the Sussex Spaniel by measuring the temperaments of 14 Norfolk Terriers and 4 Sussex Spaniels.
The Popularity of Norfolk Terrier versus Popularity of Sussex Spaniel
Every year, the American Kennel Club (AKC) publishes information on how popular a dog breed is in that particular year. The AKC gets the popularity information of a breed from how many dogs of that breed the owners register with the AKC every year. The AKC collects this data for about 200 dog breeds. The AKC collects this data for purebred dogs only(no mixed or hybrid dogs).
The graphs and the table below show the popularity of the Norfolk Terrier and the Sussex Spaniel over the years.
Based on the AKC popularity data over the years, the Norfolk Terrier is more popular with dog owners than the Sussex Spaniel. This is because, over the years, the average popularity of the Norfolk Terrier is 130 out of about 200 dog breeds while the average popularity of the Sussex Spaniel is 171 out of about 200 dog breeds.
Popularity of Norfolk Terrier
Popularity of Sussex Spaniel
| Year | Norfolk Terrier Popularity Rank | Sussex Spaniel Popularity Rank |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | 129 | 162 |
| 2014 | 131 | 175 |
| 2015 | 131 | 173 |
| 2016 | 134 | 172 |
| 2017 | 128 | 161 |
| 2018 | 126 | 180 |
| 2019 | 131 | 176 |
| 2020 | 130 | 172 |
Tolerates Being Alone: Norfolk Terrier versus Sussex Spaniel
Norfolk Terriers can be left alone only for a short time.
Sussex Spaniels do not like to be left alone.
Do Norfolk Terriers shed more than Sussex Spaniels?
Norfolk Terriers do not shed a lot. They are good for people with dog allergies.
Sussex Spaniels shed moderately.
Which one drools more, the Norfolk Terrier or the Sussex Spaniel
Norfolk Terriers do have a very low tendency to drool.
Sussex Spaniels do have a very low tendency to drool.
Which is Easier to Groom, the Norfolk Terrier or the Sussex Spaniel?
Norfolk Terriers are very easy to groom.
Sussex Spaniels are very easy to groom.
Does the Norfolk Terrier Have a Higher Prey Drive than the Sussex Spaniel?
Norfolk Terriers have a very low prey drive. This means they get won`t chase after smaller pets. They tend to get along well with other pets.
Sussex Spaniels have a very low prey drive. This means they get won`t chase after smaller pets. They tend to get along well with other pets.
Do Norfolk Terriers Bark and Howl? What about Sussex Spaniels?
Norfolk Terriers bark and howl, but not very much.
Sussex Spaniels are highly vocal. They have the tendency to bark and howl.
Can Norfolk Terriers Tolerate Cold Weather? And can Sussex Spaniels Tolerate Cold Weather?
Norfolk Terriers can very well tolerate cold weather.
Sussex Spaniels can very well tolerate cold weather.
Wanderlust Potential: Norfolk Terrier vs. Sussex Spaniel
Norfolk Terriers have a high tendency to wander. They are easily distracted by other animals or objects.
Sussex Spaniels do not have the potential to wander after things that capture their attention. They tend to stay around where you leave them.
Can Norfolk Terriers Tolerate Hot Weather? Can Sussex Spaniels Tolerate Hot Weather?
Norfolk Terriers can tolerate hot weather.
Sussex Spaniels can tolerate hot weather.
Which Dog Breed is more Dog-Friendly, the Norfolk Terrier or the Sussex Spaniel?
Norfolk Terriers get along very well with other dogs.
Sussex Spaniels get along very well with other dogs.
Are Norfolk Terriers good family dogs? What about Sussex Spaniels?
Norfolk Terriers are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.
Sussex Spaniels are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.
How Kid-friendly are Norfolk Terriers and Sussex Spaniels?
Norfolk Terriers get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.
Sussex Spaniels get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.
Is the Norfolk Terrier Easier to Train than the Sussex Spaniel?
Norfolk Terriers are very easy to train.
Sussex Spaniels are fairly easy to train.
Is the Norfolk Terrier Better for Apartment Owners than the Sussex Spaniel?
Norfolk Terriers adapt very well to apartment living.
Sussex Spaniels adapt very well to apartment living.
Which is Better for New Dog Owners, the Norfolk Terrier or the Sussex Spaniel?
Norfolk Terriers are very good for new dog owners.
Sussex Spaniels are very good for new dog owners.
Other Dog Breeds That are Similar to the Norfolk Terrier
Furthermore, there are other dog breeds that are very similar to the Norfolk Terrier that you can consider on your quest to get the best pet.
We crunched the numbers and found that the following dog breeds have similar personality and temperament as the Norfolk Terrier:
Other Dog Breeds That are Similar to the Sussex Spaniel
Furthermore, there are other dog breeds that are very similar to the Sussex Spaniel that you can consider on your quest to get the best pet.
We crunched the numbers and found that the following dog breeds have similar personality and temperament as the Sussex Spaniel:
Other Breed Comparisons that Might Interest You
You may also be interested in how the Norfolk Terrier and how the Sussex Spaniel compares to other breeds. So, see below the comparison of the Norfolk Terrier and of the Sussex Spaniel to other breeds:
Norfolk Terrier Versus Other Dog Breeds
Norfolk Terrier versus Akbash Norfolk Terrier versus Saint Bernard Norfolk Terrier versus Pyrenean Shepherd Norfolk Terrier versus Clumber Spaniel Norfolk Terrier versus Bichon Frise Norfolk Terrier versus Neapolitan Mastiff Norfolk Terrier versus Miniature Poodle Norfolk Terrier versus Briard Norfolk Terrier versus Saluki Norfolk Terrier versus King Shepherd Norfolk Terrier versus Icelandic Sheepdog Norfolk Terrier versus Chi-Poo Norfolk Terrier versus Cockalier Norfolk Terrier versus Treeing Tennessee Brindle Norfolk Terrier versus Mudi Norfolk Terrier versus Toy Poodle Norfolk Terrier versus King Shepherd Norfolk Terrier versus American Pit Bull Terrier Norfolk Terrier versus Sussex Spaniel Norfolk Terrier versus Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Norfolk Terrier versus Spanish Mastiff Norfolk Terrier versus Azawakh Norfolk Terrier versus Standard Schnauzer Norfolk Terrier versus Cesky Terrier Norfolk Terrier versus Flat-Coated Retriever
Sussex Spaniel Versus Other Dog Breeds
Sussex Spaniel versus Rottweiler Sussex Spaniel versus Basenji Sussex Spaniel versus Brittany Sussex Spaniel versus Bergamasco Sheepdog Sussex Spaniel versus Alaskan Malamute Sussex Spaniel versus Mudi Sussex Spaniel versus English Setter Sussex Spaniel versus Cairn Terrier Sussex Spaniel versus Barbet Sussex Spaniel versus Komondor Sussex Spaniel versus Norfolk Terrier Sussex Spaniel versus Samoyed Sussex Spaniel versus Irish Setter Sussex Spaniel versus Swedish Vallhund Sussex Spaniel versus Keeshond Sussex Spaniel versus Boxerdoodle Sussex Spaniel versus Standard Schnauzer Sussex Spaniel versus Afador Sussex Spaniel versus Labrador Retriever Sussex Spaniel versus Catahoula Bulldog Sussex Spaniel versus Braque du Bourbonnais Sussex Spaniel versus Mountain Cur Sussex Spaniel versus Rottweiler Sussex Spaniel versus Airedale Terrier Sussex Spaniel versus Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Conclusion: Norfolk Terrier versus Sussex Spaniel. Which One is a Better Pet?
In summary, there is nothing like a better dog breed or a worse dog breed. The important question to ask is which dog breed better matches your interests and lifestyle. We hope our discussion above will help you in deciding which dog breed between the Norfolk Terrier and the Sussex Spaniel better suits you and your family.