The Biewer Terrier: A Colorful Companion with a Royal History

The Biewer Terrier, pronounced “Bee-ver,” is more than just a pretty face. This charming little dog, often sporting a distinctive black, white, and tan coat, boasts a fascinating history and a personality sure to win you over. While relatively new to the dog world, the Biewer Terrier is quickly gaining popularity as a loyal, intelligent, and affectionate companion.

A Serendipitous Start:

Unlike many breeds with centuries of development, the Biewer Terrier’s origin story is refreshingly modern. It all began in 1984 in Germany when Gertrud and Werner Biewer, long-time Yorkshire Terrier breeders, produced a puppy with striking blue, white, and gold markings. This spontaneous genetic mutation sparked a new breed, initially called the “Biewer Yorkshire Terrier à la Pom Pon.”

The Biewers, intrigued and captivated by this unique coloration, selectively bred these dogs, solidifying the distinct Biewer Terrier characteristics. They recognized the breed’s potential and strived to create a dog with not only a beautiful appearance but also a gentle and even-tempered disposition.

Defining Characteristics:

The Biewer Terrier is a small, long-haired toy breed. Key features include:

• Coat: The hallmark of the Biewer Terrier is its long, flowing, silky coat. The acceptable color combination is black and white, blue and white, or tan and white. Symmetry in the color distribution is preferred.
• Size: Typically standing between 7 and 11 inches tall and weighing between 4 and 8 pounds, they are a truly lap-sized companion.
• Body: The Biewer Terrier has a well-proportioned body, slightly longer than it is tall.
• Head: The head is small and slightly rounded, with a short muzzle.
• Tail: The tail is typically undocked and carried over the back in a graceful plume.

A Personality That Shines:

Beyond their stunning appearance, Biewer Terriers are known for their delightful personalities. They are generally described as:

• Affectionate and Loyal: They form strong bonds with their families and thrive on human interaction. They are known to be devoted companions and are happiest when by their owner’s side.
• Intelligent and Trainable: Biewer Terriers are quick learners and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Positive reinforcement methods work best with this sensitive breed.
• Playful and Energetic: Despite their small size, they have a playful spirit and enjoy engaging in games and activities. Daily walks and playtime are essential to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.
• Social and Friendly: They typically get along well with children and other dogs, especially when properly socialized from a young age.

Caring for Your Biewer Terrier:

Owning a Biewer Terrier requires commitment and understanding of their specific needs:

• Grooming: Their long, silky coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles. Daily brushing is recommended, and professional grooming every few weeks is essential.
• Exercise: While they don’t require excessive exercise, daily walks and playtime are necessary to keep them healthy and happy.
• Diet: A high-quality dog food formulated for small breeds is essential. Be mindful of portion control to prevent obesity.
• Health: While generally healthy, Biewer Terriers can be prone to certain health conditions, such as patellar luxation, Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, and tracheal collapse. Regular veterinary checkups are crucial for early detection and prevention.
• Socialization: Early socialization is vital to ensure they develop into well-adjusted and confident companions. Expose them to various sights, sounds, people, and other animals from a young age.

A Breed on the Rise:

The Biewer Terrier is officially recognized by various kennel clubs, including the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2021. This recognition has further fueled the breed’s popularity, leading to increased awareness and demand.

Is a Biewer Terrier Right for You?

If you are looking for a small, affectionate, and intelligent companion to fill your life with joy, the Biewer Terrier might be the perfect breed for you. However, it’s crucial to be prepared for the commitment required, including grooming, training, and socialization.

Before bringing a Biewer Terrier into your home, do thorough research, find a reputable breeder, and be prepared to provide a loving and supportive environment for this beautiful and charming breed. The rewards are well worth the effort – a lifetime of companionship with a dog that’s as beautiful on the inside as they are on the outside.