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Biewer Terrier, photo 1

Origin

Germany

Lifespan

16–18 years

Weight

2–3 kg

Height

18–28 cm

Personality

PlayfulFriendlyDevotedChildlike

Colors & Patterns

White Black and Tan · White Blue and Tan

Biewer Terrier

About This Breed

The Biewer Terrier is a rare toy breed that originated as a color variation of the Yorkshire Terrier in Germany. With their distinctive tri-colored silky coat and whimsical personality, they are charming companion dogs.

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Characteristics

Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.

Family Affection
5/5
Good with Children
4/5
Good with Other Dogs
3/5
Shedding Level
2/5
Grooming Needs
4/5
Drooling Level
1/5
Friendly to Strangers
4/5
Playfulness
5/5
Watchdog Drive
2/5
Adaptability
4/5
Easy to Train
3/5
Energy Level
3/5
Barking frequency
3/5
Need for mental activity
3/5

Life with a Biewer Terrier

Origin

OriginGermany
GroupToy

For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.

Size and coat

Weight2–3 kg
Lifespan16–18 years
Height18–28 cm
Colors & PatternsWhite Black and Tan · White Blue and Tan

These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.

Temperament

PersonalityPlayful · Friendly · Devoted · Childlike

Often enjoys a mix of activity and rest.

Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.

Coat care

Coat care can take more time. Check for tangles and choose a brushing routine that suits the coat.

Usually sheds relatively little. Low shedding does not mean an animal cannot cause allergies.

Living together

Often adjusts to changes fairly well, though a gradual introduction still helps.

Often gets along with children, but an adult should still supervise their time together.

Introduce other pets gradually and watch how each animal responds.

Training and activities

Practice in short sessions and reward the behavior you want.

Choose walks, sniffing games, and play to suit the dog’s age and health. Allow rest as well.

A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.

More from breed and care sources

Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.

Breed Overview

Biewer Terriers are a relatively recent addition to the world of dog breeds. The Biewer, pronounced beaver,  can be traced to 1984 Germany, where two tricolor puppies were born in the kennel of experienced Yorkshire Terrier breeders Werner and Gertrude Biewer, according to the Biewer Terrier Club of America (BTCA). The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the Biewer Terrier in 2021. This is a small breed: Full-grown Biewer Terriers typically weigh 4–8 pounds and stand about 7–11 inches tall at the shoulder.

Care Guide

The Biewer Terrier temperament is often described as lively, playful, and devoted to their pet parents. Despite their small size, Biewer Terriers are surprisingly energetic. They appreciate regular playtime and exercise, such as a daily walk or active indoor play, to stay happy and healthy. So while a Biewer’s small size makes them ideal apartment companions, they still need opportunities to burn off energy. One of the most notable features of the Biewer Terrier is their long, silky coat. All Biewers have a tricolor coat in one of three color combinations: This unique coloration sets them apart from the traditional Yorkshire Terrier, from which the dogs are descended. And, just like their Yorkie ancestors, Biewer Terriers require a lot of grooming care.