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Biewer Terrier breed guide

AKC calls the Biewer Terrier an elegant, longhaired, tricolored toy terrier whose only purpose in life is to love and be loved.

The name is pronounced like the animal, beaver and many Biewer Terriers carry a toy or two around in their mouths.

Height
7 to 11 inches
Weight
4 to 8 pounds
AKC group
Toy Group
Photo of a Biewer Terrier

Biewer Terrier temperament

A very dedicated, loyal family member, the Biewer Terrier is friendly with strangers and keeps a charming, whimsical, childlike attitude well into adulthood. AKC says a large share of them are happy-go-lucky dogs that smile when asked if they are happy.

It alerts you quickly to company but is not a constant barker. Despite small stature it is hearty, athletic and an excellent hunter of vermin.

Biewer Terrier lifespan

The Biewer Terrier lives 16 years by AKC's count. Sensitive stomachs are common, so an occasional soft or discolored stool is no surprise. AKC says persistent diarrhea or discolored stools call for a vet visit right away.

Biewer Terrier care

A long coat means daily brushing and the silkier coat mats minimally while softer coats may get some mats. Keeping the Biewer Terrier in a short coat cuts grooming to a minimum.

A rather mellow, easygoing dog, the Biewer Terrier gets natural exercise from play with its family. Indoor options include hide-and-seek, chasing a ball rolled along the floor and learning new tricks.

Biewer Terrier history

The breed began in Germany in 1984, when two tricolor dogs were born to Werner and Gertrude Biewer, experienced Yorkshire Terrier breeders. A veterinarian friend suggested Biewer Yorkshire Terriers and a famous German singer who took a liking to the dogs added a la Pom Pon to the name.

American fanciers began importing the breed from Germany in 2002.

AKC trait ratings

TraitAKC ratingScale
Energy Level3 of 5Couch Potato to High Energy
Trainability Level3 of 5Self-Willed to Eager to Please
Shedding Level1 of 5No Shedding to Hair Everywhere
Barking Level3 of 5Only To Alert to Very Vocal
Adaptability Level3 of 5Lives For Routine to Highly Adaptable
Good With Young Children3 of 5Not Recommended to Good With Children
Good With Other Dogs5 of 5Not Recommended to Good With Other Dogs
Watchdog/Protective Nature2 of 5What's Mine Is Yours to Vigilant

More Toy Group guides

Sources

Photos via Wikimedia Commons: Biewer Terrier by Sciencia58, CC0