Biewer Terrier

ATTRIBUTES: Intelligent, Devoted, Amusing

GROUP: Toy Group

ACIVITY LEVEL: Calm

BARKING LEVEL: Medium

COAT TYPE: Silky

COAT LENGTH: Long

SHADDING: Infrequent

SIZE: XSmall

TRAINABILITY: Eager To Please

CHARACTERISTIC: Smallest Dog Breeds, Best Family Dogs

Breed Overview

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Ancestry

Yorkshire Terrier

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Origin

Germany

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Registration

2021

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Size

7 - 11 Inches

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Weight

4 - 8 Pounds

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Expected Life

16 Years

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY +
Independent
Lovey-Dovey
LOVE WITH CHILDREN +
Unwise
Good With Children
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS +
Unwise
Good With Other Dogs
SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT
No Shedding
Hair Everywhere
+
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS
Monthly
Daily
+
DROOLING INTENSITY
Less Likely to Drool
Always Have a Towel
+
COAT TYPE
+
COAT LENGTH
+
FRIENDLINESS
Reserved
Everyone Is My Best Friend
+
LIVELINESS
Only When You Want To Play
Non-Stop
+
VIGILANCE INTENSITY
What's Mine Is Yours
Vigilant
+
ADAPTATION CAPACITY
Lives For Routine
Highly Adaptable
+
OBEDIENCE LEVEL
Self-Willed
Eager to Please
+
STAMINA LEVEL
Couch Potato
High Energy
+
VOCALIZATION
Only To Alert
Very Vocal
+
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL
Loaf
Needs an Activity
+
COLORS
+
PATTERNS
+
CARING WITH FAMILY
Independent
Lovey-Dovey
The level of fondness a particular breed is inclined to show towards family members and familiar individuals. Certain breeds may come across as distant and uninterested towards everyone except their owner, whereas other breeds consider everyone they know as their closest ally.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN
Unwise
Good With Children
The disposition of a breed towards other dogs in terms of general friendliness. It is important to supervise dogs during interactions and introductions with other dogs regardless of the breed. However, some breeds have a natural inclination to establish better compatibility with other dogs, whether it's in a home environment or in public settings.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS
Unwise
Good With Other Dogs
The degree to which a breed exhibits tolerance and patience towards children's behavior, along with their overall family-friendly nature. It is crucial to supervise dogs when they are around young children or any children who have limited experience with dogs regardless of the breed. However, certain breeds tend to display a higher level of tolerance and an affinity for a family-oriented environment making them more suitable for households with children.
SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT
No Shedding
Hair Everywhere
The amount of fur and hair that can be expected to be shed by a particular breed. Breeds that have high shedding tendencies will typically require more frequent brushing to manage the loose hair. Additionally, they may be more likely to trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. Owning a high-shedding breed also often requires more consistent efforts in terms of vacuuming and using lint rollers to keep the environment clean and free of shed hair.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS
Monthly
Daily
The grooming needs of a breed including the frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming, and other coat maintenance tasks. It's essential to consider your available time, patience and budget for grooming when choosing a breed. Some breeds require more extensive and frequent grooming, including regular bathing, brushing, and coat trimming, which can be time-consuming and may require professional grooming services. However, all breeds will need regular nail trimming as a part of their basic grooming routine.
DROOLING INTENSITY
Less Likely to Drool
Always Have a Towel
The predisposition of a breed to drool. If you have a preference for a clean and tidy environment breeds that tend to drool excessively may not be the most suitable choice for you. Some dogs have a tendency to produce ropes of slobber or leave big wet spots on clothes or furniture. It's important to consider your personal preference for cleanliness when selecting a breed, as some breeds generally have a higher likelihood of drooling.
COAT STYLES GUIDE
Silky
COAT SPECTRUM
Long
FRIENDLINESS
Reserved
Everyone Is My Best Friend
The predisposition of a breed to drool. If you have a preference for a clean and tidy environment breeds that tend to drool excessively may not be the most suitable choice for you. Some dogs have a tendency to produce ropes of slobber or leave big wet spots on clothes or furniture. It's important to consider your personal preference for cleanliness when selecting a breed, as some breeds generally have a higher likelihood of drooling.
LIVELINESS
Only When You Want To Play
Non-Stop
The level of enthusiasm a breed is likely to have towards play even as they grow beyond puppyhood. Certain breeds maintain a strong desire for play and engagement even into their adult years. They may continue to enjoy activities like tug-of-war, fetch, or interactive games. These breeds often have high energy levels and a playful demeanor. On the other hand, some breeds tend to have a more relaxed temperament and may prefer spending most of their time relaxing on the couch or indulging in calmer activities. It's important to consider this aspect when choosing a breed that aligns with your own activity level and play preferences.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY
What's Mine Is Yours
Vigilant
The propensity of a breed to alert their owners when strangers are in the vicinity. Some breeds have a natural inclination to be vigilant and react to potential threats notifying their owners of any perceived danger. Whether it's the arrival of the mailman or a squirrel outside the window, these breeds are more likely to exhibit a heightened alertness and may bark or display other signs of awareness. However, it's important to note that with proper socialization and acceptance by the family, these breeds can also become more welcoming and accepting of strangers who enter their home.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY
Lives For Routine
Highly Adaptable
The adaptability of a breed to handle changes in various aspects of life, such as living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, daily schedules, and other variations in day-to-day life. Some breeds are naturally more flexible and adaptable, smoothly adjusting to new environments, routines, and different stimuli. These breeds tend to be less affected by changes and are more resilient. However, other breeds may be more sensitive and less capable of handling significant changes, requiring more time and support to adapt. When considering a breed, it's important to assess their ability to handle and adjust to different circumstances based on your lifestyle and potential changes in the future.
OBEDIENCE LEVEL
Self-Willed
Eager to Please
Discover how effortlessly your furry friend can be trained and how enthusiastically they embrace new skills. Certain breeds are inherently inclined to delight their owners by eagerly taking on challenges, while others prioritize their independence and have a penchant for exercising their free will at any given time and location.
STAMINA LEVEL
Couch Potato
High Energy
Determine the level of physical activity and cognitive engagement required by different breeds. High-energy breeds exhibit a strong readiness for action constantly seeking new ventures. They devote their time to exhilarating activities, such as running, leaping, and engaging in playful pursuits. On the other hand, low-energy breeds resemble couch potatoes content with leisurely lounging and indulging in peaceful slumber.
VOCALIZATION
Only To Alert
Very Vocal
Medium
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL
Happy to Lounge
Needs a Job or Activity
Evaluate the level of mental stimulation necessary to maintain the happiness and well-being of a particular breed. Purpose-bred dogs often possess qualities like decision-making abilities, problem-solving skills, and concentration, which require regular mental exercise. Without sufficient mental stimulation, they may take matters into their own paws and engage in activities that may not align with your preferred projects. Providing adequate mental challenges and enrichment activities can help ensure they channel their cognitive energy in positive and desirable ways.
COLORS

Description

Registration Code

Chocolate Tan & White

270

Black Tan & White

030

Blue Tan & White

291

PATTERNS

.

About The Breed

The Biewer Terrier, pronounced as "beaver," is a graceful and longhaired toy terrier with distinctive tri-colored markings. Its primary purpose in life is to shower love upon others and receive love in return. These charming canines maintain a whimsical and cheerful attitude even in their adulthood often seen carrying around a toy or two.

As dedicated and loyal family members, Biewer Terriers form strong bonds with their human companions and exhibit friendliness towards strangers. A significant number of them possess a happy-go-lucky disposition, often seen smiling when prompted. Despite their small size, Biewer Terriers are surprisingly robust and athletic excelling as vermin hunters. They possess a lighthearted and childlike demeanor, often carrying toys in their mouths. While they are alert and quick to notify you of visitors, they are not incessant barkers.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A BIEWER TERRIER

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Biewer Terrier: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

Health

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While the Biewer Terrier is generally a healthy breed like all dogs, they may encounter certain health issues. However, the majority of Biewer Terriers lead healthy lives. One common concern seen in this breed is a sensitive gastrointestinal system, which can sometimes lead to occasional soft or discolored stools. Although not typically life-threatening, it is important to seek veterinary attention if your dog experiences persistent diarrhea or consistently discolored stools.

Overall, the Biewer Terrier does not have any known major health issues. Nevertheless, it is advisable to conduct certain tests before breeding to ensure the health of the offspring. 

Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association:

  • Eye Examination by a board Certified ACVO Ophthalmologist

  • Primary Lens Luxation (PLL) - DNA Test

  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy, PRCD (PRA-prcd, PRCD) - DNA Test

Health

Grooming

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The Biewer Terrier possesses a luxuriously long coat that necessitates daily brushing. While less matting occurs with the silkier coat, the softer coats may experience some mats. Opting for a short coat for your Biewer would require minimal grooming. To maintain the coat's soft and silky condition, it is advisable to use high-quality grooming products. Engaging in grooming activities not only keeps your dog clean but also fosters a delightful bond between you and your furry companion. Besides regular brushing, an occasional bath using superior grooming products ensures that they look their best. It is important to trim their nails regularly using clippers or grinders to prevent overgrowth, splitting, and cracking. Regularly checking their ears for any wax or debris buildup is crucial to avoid infections. Lastly, prioritize regular teeth brushing for optimal dental hygiene.
Health

Exercise

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The Biewer Terrier is known for its calm and relaxed nature. They have a playful disposition, which not only brings them enjoyment but also allows them to naturally engage in physical activity while spending time with their human family. When indoors, you can entertain them with games like hide-and-seek, rolling a ball along the floor, or even teaching them new tricks. Biewers are also great companions for walks. They are quite agile and genuinely enjoy going on outings with their loved ones. Even if you live in an apartment, a brief stroll in the hallways can provide your dog with exercise especially when the weather outside is unpleasant.
Health

Training

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The Biewer Terrier is renowned for its unmatched dedication and loyalty making it an ideal choice as a family pet. With their playful and youthful demeanor, they make wonderful companions for individuals of all age groups and have the ability to form friendships with animals from various backgrounds. Their high level of intelligence makes them quick learners and easily trainable, although they may require additional time for successful potty training.
Health

Nutrition

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Due to their sensitive gastrointestinal system, it is important to provide the Biewer Terrier with a well-balanced diet that is low in protein. Opting for kibble is recommended, as canned food can contribute to the development of plaque. If you observe excessive foot chewing and scratching, it is advised to switch to a lamb or fish-based food. Generally, free-feeding is acceptable for Biewers, but if weight gain becomes evident, it is advisable to regulate their meals into 2 to 3 times per day. Additionally, it is essential to ensure that clean and fresh water is always accessible to them.

Historiography

The Biewer Terrier has its origins in Germany, dating back to 1984 when two tricolor puppies were born in the kennel of experienced Yorkshire terrier breeders Werner and Gertrude Biewer. Upon the suggestion of a veterinarian friend, the dogs were named Biewer Yorkshire Terriers. The breed name was further modified when a famous German singer added the phrase "a la Pom Pon" to it. Over the years, the Biewers dedicated themselves to developing a consistent population of these charming dogs through selective breeding.

In 2002, American dog enthusiasts began importing Biewer Terriers from Germany leading to their rapid popularity in the United States. Soon after, clubs emerged to protect and promote the breed resulting in the establishment of the Biewer Terrier Club of America in 2006.

To confirm whether the Biewer Terrier was a distinct breed or a strain of the Yorkshire terrier, the BTCA reached out to Mars Veterinary in early 2007. By September of that year, the lab had developed a DNA testing program and BTCA members submitted blood samples for analysis. The initial results indicated that the Biewer Terrier samples formed a distinct cluster separate from the Yorkshire terrier breed. This groundbreaking discovery marked the first time that genetic material rather than pedigree records was used to confirm the purity of a breed.

During a visit to Germany in 2007, BTCA members met with Mrs. Biewer herself, who described the whimsical toy breed as "wonder bar." The founding members of the BTCA tirelessly worked to protect and refine the breed, ultimately leading to its official recognition as the Biewer Terrier.

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