The Biewer Terrier is a loyal family member and a fast friend to all they meet. These little dogs seem to greet everyone with a smile. They have a wonderful personality and a childlike attitude that will keep the family laughing.
Although they are small, they are perfectly able to keep up on long walks or hikes. They could be called the perfect family pet.
According to the AKC, a Biewer terrier is pronounced beaver (like the animal).
Interestingly, the Biewer terrier was finally accepted into the AKC in January 2021.
History
Formally introduced to the American Kennel Club in 2021, the Biewer Terrier is the club’s newest member. The history of these dogs is almost as curious as the dogs themselves.
They began in the town of Hunstruck, Germany, in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Biewer, who raised and showed Yorkshire Terriers. After a long and successful breeding program, the Biewer’s devotion to showing Yorkies came to an end.
In January of 1984 and over the next several months afterward, many of the Biewer’s puppies were born with the recessive piebald gene, one not usually found in Yorkies. The gene produced spotted or multicolored coats that interrupt the white part of the fur.
After deciding to name their new breed Biewer Yorkshire Terriers, the Biewer dogs began to make a public appearance in 1986.
Characteristics of the Biewer Terrier
These adorable little dogs are dignified, with their long hair and signature ponytail. The coat parts down the middle, hanging evenly on both sides. The dog’s body length is a bit longer than the overall height, and her tail stands proud and high, covered with a lovely plume.
These dogs stay on the smaller size, only growing between 7 to 11 inches high and their weight staying between 4 and 8 pounds. With their wonderful personality, they can only be described as perfect little dogs.
However, because of their size, they can easily get underfoot. Families with small children and other dogs need to be especially careful not to step on these tiny pups accidentally.
What is the Difference between a Biewer and Parti Terrier?
Though they look very similar, there are definite differences. Though the bloodline is related to the Yorkie, the Biewer is considered a separate breed.
Born in Germany, the bloodline of all Biewers traces back to their ancestors. They also have a special color pattern, and tails are usually not docked.
The Parti Yorkie was created in the United States by a breeder in California, who bred more and more of the white gene to achieve an entirely white dog with a parti-color. She is still considered a Yorkie by AKC standards, and most breeders dock the tails.
What is a Biro Yorkie?
A Biro yorkie is a variation of a Biewer terrier with shades of dark chocolate on the mostly white body and shades of gold on the head.
What Kind of Temperament Does the Biewer Terrier Have?
This peculiar little dog is very sought after throughout the world as they remain one of the hidden gems of the dog world. With her charming personality and attitude, the Biewer Terrier is the ideal housedog.
They are very intelligent, and they know it, as they love to be the center of attention. When the Biewer Terrier is not taking her daily nap, she is happy to be playing with her owners.
They love to learn new things and are generally easy to train with consistency. They are wonderful with children and families but will not be afraid to give a good warning bark or two.
They can have typical small dog syndrome, but with early socialization, they can learn to get along with everyone.
Because of their loud bark, they can make decent watchdogs but would probably not be overly effective in the event of an intruder due to their small stature.
How to Care for the Biewer Terrier
Diet
The Biewer Terrier can have sensitivity in the GI tract and should be fed a well-balanced diet low in protein diet. A lamb or fish base is usually tolerated well. A mix of dry and wet foods made for small dogs is best. Also, be very careful not to overfeed these little dogs. Weight gain in a small dog can do a lot of damage and have a negative impact on their health.
Grooming
The Biewer Terrier’s coat requires daily brushing to ensure minimal matting. If you chose to keep her hair short, then a trip to the groomer won’t have to be as frequent.
Luckily, these little dogs love to be brushed, which can be a great bonding experience for both of you. Occasional baths are ideal, as is keeping their nails trimmed regularly. Ears should be checked for wax buildup and debris, which can result in infection.
Exercise
These dogs are mellow and easy-going with playful attitudes. Their playfulness is a means of self-exercise, but they also benefit from time spent playing with family.
The Biewer Terrier loves long walks and can easily keep up but will also do fine with short walks or a game of indoor fetch. This would be beneficial in poor weather as they are not fond of the snow and ice. Their delicate little bodies can get cold quickly.
Appearance
As mentioned before, these are petite dogs, and the males and females don’t differ much in size. Most do not get over 8 pounds. They do have a variation in color, as they can be black or white, with a hint of brown and even a blueish hue. Their medium-length silky hair does not shed, making them ideal for allergy sufferers.
Are They Hypoallergenic?
Yes! Along with silky hair that won’t make a mess in your home, these dogs are great for folks who suffer from allergies, as they are hypoallergenic.
Health Problems
Like all purebred dogs, the Biewer Terrier, unfortunately, comes with his own list of health problems. Making sure your dog eats well and gets exercise will help to ensure a healthy pet, but there are some things to be on the lookout for.
Patellar Luxation
The term luxating means out of place or dislocation. Therefore, Patellar Luxation is basically a dislocation of the kneecap.
Owners may notice that their dogs seem to skip a step or tries to run using only three legs at times. Patellar Luxation can be painful and may require surgery or other treatment.
Bladder Stones
Bladder stones are mineral deposits that develop in the bladder. They can be one large, single stone or several smaller ones ranging in size.
Common signs of bladder stones include blood in the urine and straining to urinate. The condition is painful, and it may require surgical intervention.
Tracheal Collapse
Tracheal Collapse is when the rings of cartilage in the trachea lose rigidity. The membranes can also become slack, and the rings can flatten when your dog draws in air. This makes it difficult for the dog to get air into her lungs.
Tracheal Collapse often presents as a dry, harsh cough that sounds like a goose honk. It may worsen with excitement or pressure on the throat from a collar or right after drinking or eating.
There are several treatment options, but surgery can be considered if the affliction worsens.
