Biewer Terrier
Updated November 30, 2025
The Biewer Terrier is an elegant and charming toy terrier, distinguished by its unique tri-colored, long and silky coat. They are affectionate, playful, and devoted companions that adapt well to various living situations, including apartments.
Playful, Affectionate, Intelligent, Loyal, Devoted
4-8 pounds
7-11 inches
12-15 years
Blue/Black, White, and Gold/Tan, Black, White, and Gold/Tan
At a Glance
Good with Kids
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About Biewer Terrier
The Biewer Terrier is an elegant and charming toy terrier, distinguished by its unique tri-colored, long and silky coat. They are affectionate, playful, and devoted companions that adapt well to various living situations, including apartments.
What Makes Biewer Terriers Special
The Biewer Terrier is a delightful and devoted companion, capturing hearts with its elegant appearance and charming personality.
They are a relatively new breed, recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2021.
Biewer Terrier History & Origin
The Biewer Terrier originated in Germany in 1984, developed by Werner and Gertrude Biewer, who were breeders of Yorkshire Terriers.
The breed was established from a Yorkshire Terrier litter that produced a puppy with a recessive piebald gene.
The Biewer Terrier was first introduced to America in 2003.
The American Kennel Club officially recognized the Biewer Terrier in the Toy Group in 2021.
Biewer Terrier Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Biewer Terrier Appearance
The Biewer Terrier is a small, elegant toy terrier with a long, flowing, tri-colored coat.
Their hair is parted down the middle of their back, giving them a distinct and well-groomed appearance.
Physical Features
Ears
Their small, V-shaped ears are carried erect and are covered in hair.
Eyes
They have dark brown, medium-sized eyes that are either round or almond-shaped, conveying an intelligent and alert expression.
Nose
A Biewer Terrier's nose should be solid black.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
The coat is long, silky, and straight, without an undercoat.
Coat Color
The breed standard colors are a combination of blue or black, white, and gold or tan in a specific pattern.
Tail
The tail is set high, carried in a graceful arch over the body, and features a long plume of hair.
Biewer Terrier Temperament
Biewer Terriers are known for their whimsical and loving nature, forming strong bonds with their families.
They possess a fun-loving, childlike attitude and are generally friendly towards strangers and other pets, especially with early socialization.
Intelligent and eager to please, they are a joy to train, although they can sometimes exhibit a stubborn terrier streak.
Despite their small size, they have a moderate amount of energy and enjoy playtime and daily walks.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Biewer Terriers are generally healthy with a life expectancy of 12-15 years. Responsible breeding practices can help minimize the risk of hereditary conditions.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular veterinary check-ups, proper dental care, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight.
How to Care for a Biewer Terrier
The Biewer Terrier, while small, requires regular grooming for its long coat, daily exercise, and consistent training to be a well-behaved companion.
Grooming
The Biewer Terrier's long, silky coat requires daily brushing to prevent tangles and mats.
Regular bathing, typically every 2-3 weeks, is necessary to keep their coat clean.
The hair on the top of their head is often tied up in a topknot to keep it out of their eyes.
Nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care are also important aspects of their grooming routine.
Training
Biewer Terriers are intelligent and generally easy to train, responding well to positive reinforcement techniques.
Early socialization and puppy training classes are recommended.
House training can sometimes be a challenge, requiring patience and consistency.
Diet
A high-quality commercial dog food formulated for toy breeds is recommended.
Due to their small size, they are prone to dental issues, so dry kibble can be beneficial.
It's important to monitor their food intake to prevent obesity.
Exercise
They have a moderate energy level and require daily walks and playtime.
Indoor play can satisfy much of their exercise needs, but they also enjoy short, leashed walks.
Mental stimulation through puzzle toys and training is important to keep them engaged.
Environment
Biewer Terriers are well-suited for apartment living due to their small size.
They thrive in a home where they can be a part of the family and receive plenty of attention.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
Adapts well to apartment living but enjoys having some room to play.
Climate Adaptability
Best in temperate climates; sensitive to extreme heat and cold.
Apartment Living
An excellent choice for apartment dwellers.
Best Suited For
Well-suited for a variety of households, including families with children and first-time dog owners.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Biewer Terriers good with children?
Yes, Biewer Terriers are generally good with children, especially when raised with them. Due to their small size, interactions should always be supervised.
Do Biewer Terriers shed a lot?
No, Biewer Terriers have a single coat and shed very little, making them a good option for people with allergies.
How much exercise do Biewer Terriers need?
They need about 30-45 minutes of exercise per day, which can include walks and playtime.
Are Biewer Terriers easy to train?
Yes, their intelligence and eagerness to please make them relatively easy to train, though house-training can sometimes be a challenge.
Are Biewer Terriers good apartment dogs?
Yes, their small size and moderate energy levels make them excellent apartment dogs.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Early socialization, consistent training, and proper nutrition are key for a well-adjusted Biewer Terrier puppy.
Senior Care
Adjusted exercise routines, regular health monitoring, and a diet tailored to senior needs are important.
First-Time Owner Tips
A good choice for first-time owners due to their manageable size and trainable nature, provided they can commit to the grooming needs.
Looking for a Biewer Terrier?
Connect with responsible breeders, rescue organizations, and pet adoption services in your area.