Biewer Terrier
Quick Summary
Elegant, devoted companion dogs ideal for apartment living. Best suited for owners who can provide regular grooming and attention. Perfect for those seeking a small, affectionate family pet.
Contents
Weight Range
4-8 lbs
♂ Male: 4-8 lbs
♀ Female: 4-8 lbs
Height Range
18-28 inches
♂ Male: 7-11"
♀ Female: 7-11"
Life Expectancy
16-16 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #85
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Miscellaneous Class
Originally bred for Developed in Germany during the 1980s as a rare color variation of Yorkshire Terriers
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 7"-11" |
| Female Height | 7"-11" |
| Male Weight | 4-8 lbs |
| Female Weight | 4-8 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $2000-$5000 for purchase, plus setup expenses. Monthly costs average $100-200 for food, grooming, and supplies. Annual veterinary care ranges from $500-1000, excluding emergencies.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Biewer Terriers combine intelligence with a playful, devoted nature. Their moderate energy levels and outgoing personality make them excellent family companions. They show affection readily while maintaining an amusing, entertaining demeanor.
Social Needs
Highly social dogs requiring regular human interaction and companionship. Generally good with other pets and children. Can develop anxiety if left alone for extended periods, benefiting from 4-6 hours of daily interaction.
Breed Overview
Biewer Terriers captivate with their elegant tri-colored coats featuring black, white, and gold markings. These diminutive companions stand 7-11 inches tall, displaying a graceful silhouette and flowing hair that reaches the ground. Their bright, inquisitive eyes and dainty frame reflect their Yorkshire Terrier heritage, while their distinctive coloring sets them apart as a unique breed.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Excellent companion dog
- ✓ Minimal exercise needs
- ✓ Good for apartment living
- ✓ Hypoallergenic coat
Cons
- ✗ Regular grooming required
- ✗ Can be stubborn
- ✗ Delicate build
- ✗ Potential dental issues
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Intelligent, Devoted, Amusing |
| Energy Level | Calm |
| Trainability | Eager to Please |
| Grooming Needs | 2-3 Times a Week Brushing |
| Shedding |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Biewer Terriers require 30-45 minutes of daily exercise through short walks and indoor play sessions. Their moderate energy level makes them adaptable to various activity types, preferring interactive games and gentle exercise routines.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 1/4 to 1/2 cup of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Special attention needed for dental health and potential food sensitivities. Small kibble size recommended for their tiny mouths.
Feed 1/4 to 1/2 cup high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Choose small-breed formulas rich in protein. Monitor calorie intake to prevent weight gain. Fresh water should always be available.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Well-suited for apartment living due to their small size. These adaptable dogs thrive in both urban and suburban settings, requiring minimal space but appreciating a secure area for play.
Minimal space requirements make them ideal for any living situation. Adapt well to apartment living but appreciate a small yard. Need secure, indoor living space with protection from extreme temperatures.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
German breeders Werner and Gertrud Biewer created the breed in 1984 when a rare genetic recessive gene produced a tri-colored Yorkshire Terrier puppy. Careful breeding established the unique color pattern that defines the breed today.
Historical Purpose
Developed in Germany during the 1980s as a rare color variation of Yorkshire Terriers. Bred specifically for their distinctive tri-colored coat pattern as companion animals.
Fun Fact
Their unique tri-colored coat pattern resulted from a rare genetic occurrence in Yorkshire Terriers.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular grooming essential for coat maintenance. Dental care crucial due to predisposition to dental issues. Careful handling needed due to delicate build.