June 3, 2025, 10:09 am | Read time: 5 minutes
Delicate, silky, and spirited—the Biewer Terrier immediately captures attention with its striking appearance and charming personality. Despite its small size, this dog is energetic, alert, and extremely affectionate. Discover what makes this young breed so special and why it is suitable for both families and individuals in this profile.
The Biewer Terrier emerged in 1984 due to a genetic mutation in Yorkshire Terriers in Germany and has since developed into a distinct breed with a characteristic tricolor coat. Although it closely resembles the Yorkshire Terrier, it has evolved significantly both in appearance and genetically. This breed is known for its child-friendly nature, intelligence, and loving temperament.
The Biewer Terrier is particularly affectionate in familiar surroundings but is wary of strangers and alerts to visitors with clear barking. Its enthusiasm for movement and willingness to learn make it an active family dog—under one condition: appropriate physical and mental engagement.
Origin
The origins of the Biewer Terrier date back to 1984. In a litter of purebred Yorkshire Terriers from breeders Gertrud and Werner Biewer, a tricolor puppy unexpectedly appeared—the result of a spontaneous genetic mutation. The color distribution of black, gold, and white was considered a disqualifying fault in Yorkshire Terriers, but the Biewers recognized the potential of this unusual trait and began breeding selectively.
Despite initial challenges associated with the recessive inheritance of the color mutation, the popularity of the new variety quickly grew—even beyond Germany’s borders. Over time, the Biewer Terrier established itself not only phenotypically but also genetically as a distinct breed. The first national breeding records were kept, although FCI recognition is still pending. The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the breed in 2021. The Biewer Terrier is thus one of the few dog breeds whose distinctiveness has been genetically proven.
Appearance & Coat
The Biewer Terrier is an elegant, small dog with long, silky hair and a characteristic tricolor pattern. Its harmonious body structure conveys a square appearance at first glance, with the body length slightly exceeding the height at the withers. It reaches a shoulder height of 21 to 26 cm and weighs between 2.2 and 3.8 kg. The smooth hair falls parted in the middle on both sides and has no undercoat—a benefit for allergy sufferers, but it requires intensive care.
Typical is the high-tied topknot. The coat color is symmetrically composed of blue/black, gold/tan, and white. The white markings on the chest, legs, belly, and tail tip are particularly breed-specific. The head appears especially expressive due to the small, v-shaped, upright ears. The tail is set high, abundantly haired, and elegantly carried over the back. The compact yet lively physique gives the Biewer Terrier its typical blend of grace and energy.
Character & Temperament
The Biewer Terrier is a friendly, outgoing, and intelligent dog with a lively temperament. It is loyal and strongly attached to its owner, making it an ideal companion and family dog. Within the family, it is cuddly, playful, and fond of children. It usually behaves amicably and curiously with other dogs and animals. However, it initially meets strangers with suspicion, expressed through barking—a behavior rooted in its original terrier genes.
Despite its childlike nature, the Biewer Terrier is mentally very active and needs cognitive challenges. Trick training, search games, and mental tasks not only enhance its intelligence but also strengthen its bond with humans. Its balanced nature is especially evident when it is physically and mentally engaged.
Training
Thanks to its intelligence and close bond with humans, the Biewer Terrier is easy to train—provided one remains consistent. Especially during the puppy phase, early socialization is crucial to channel its sometimes bark-prone and suspicious behavior toward strangers appropriately. Playful learning and positive reinforcement are particularly effective with the Biewer. Despite its small size, it needs clear rules and structures, as it often sees itself as a brave watchdog. Obedience training, engagement, and bonding work promote harmonious coexistence and make it a pleasant family member.
Proper Care & Maintenance
The Biewer Terrier is suitable for both city and country living, as long as it is sufficiently engaged. It requires several daily walks and mental stimulation. Ideal are mini-format dog sports, search games, or learning tricks. The long, fine hair of the Biewer Terrier requires daily care: brushing is essential to prevent knots and tangles. Regular checks of ears, eyes, teeth, and claws should be routine.
In cooler weather, a protective coat is recommended due to the lack of undercoat. Regular trimming of the facial area is also necessary to prevent the hair from obstructing vision. With proper care, the Biewer proves to be a low-maintenance, robust, and cheerful companion dog.
Nutrition
In terms of nutrition, the Biewer Terrier is usually uncomplicated. A balanced, protein-rich diet of meat, vegetables, and possibly some fruit meets its needs well. Grain components should only be fed if tolerated. Raw feeding (Biologically Appropriate Raw Feeding) can also be an option but requires good knowledge of nutrient requirements. Therefore, an expert should always be consulted.
Monitoring eating behavior is important to respond early to intolerances or dietary changes. Supplemented with healthy snacks and rewards during training, the small terrier remains active and healthy. Daily calorie intake should always be adjusted to age, activity, and weight.
Susceptibility to Certain Diseases
The Biewer Terrier has a genetic predisposition to some breed-specific diseases. Eye conditions such as distichiasis (misalignment of eyelashes) or lens dislocation are particularly common and can lead to blindness if untreated. Knee joint problems like patellar luxation are—like in many small dogs—common and often appear at a young age.
To avoid genetically related ailments, choosing a reputable breeder with healthy parent animals is crucial. Regular veterinary check-ups help detect and treat health issues early. With proper care, good maintenance, and balanced nutrition, the Biewer Terrier can have a life expectancy of up to 15 years.
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The Biewer Terrier at a Glance
- Temperament: friendly, playful, intelligent, alert
- Size: 21–26 cm shoulder height
- Weight: 2.2–3.8 kg
- Coat: long, silky, smooth—no undercoat
- Maintenance: high—daily brushing required
- Special Features: genetically distinct breed with striking color pattern