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Biewer Terrier

The Biewer Terrier is a cheerful and lively companion that quickly wins the hearts of its people with its charming nature.

Weight
1.8–3.6kg
Height
18–28cm
Life Expectancy
14–16years
Size: SmallCoat Length: Medium LengthCompare
Biewer Terrier
High energySheds very little

A tricolor accident with a story: in 1984 a Yorkshire litter in the German Hunsrück produced the first puppies with white markings. Werner and Gertrud Biewer recognised the potential and built a breed of their own from them. At just 1.8 to 3.6 kg, with barely any shedding and a life expectancy of 14 to 16 years, the Biewer Terrier is a long-lived dwarf. The flip side: no FCI recognition, and an energy level few people expect in a lap dog. Are you ready for a mini with full terrier temperament?

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Temperament & Traits: Biewer Terrier

The Biewer Terrier stands out for its temperament and adaptability. Here are the key points at a glance.

For Beginners
For BeginnersConditional
Exercise
ExerciseHigh
Child Friendly
Child FriendlyConditional
Apartment
ApartmentConditional
Grooming
GroomingModerate
Shedding
SheddingLow
Watchfulness
WatchfulnessMedium

Fact Sheet: Biewer Terrier

Height
Height18-28 cm
18-28 18-28
Weight
Weight1.8-3.6 kg
1.8-3.6 1.8-3.6
Life Expectancy
Life Expectancy14-16 years
Fact Sheet: Biewer Terrier
BreedBiewer Terrier
FCI GroupNot Recognized
ColorsBlack-Golden Brown-White
CharacterThe Biewer Terrier is a cheerful and lively companion that quickly wins the hearts of its people with its charming nature.

Pros & Cons: Biewer Terrier

Best suited for:

For owners who are patient with grooming and exercise, and ready for a long-term commitment.

Active lifestyle with plenty of exercise
Suitable for apartment living

Pros

  • Sheds very little to none
  • Great companion for active people and athletes
  • Compact size, ideal for apartments

Cons

  • Needs lots of exercise and mental stimulation

Did you know? Biewer Terrier

The Biewer Terrier is one of the longer-lived breeds at 14-16 years

At just 3 kg, the Biewer Terrier is a real lightweight

The Biewer Terrier barely sheds and is a good choice for allergy sufferers

The Biewer Terrier adapts well to apartment living and doesn't need a large garden

Characteristics

The Biewer Terrier is a small, elegant dog breed with a harmonious body structure and fine, silky coat. Its long, straight hair falls smoothly down and features a characteristic color distribution, combining white with darker and golden markings. The compact build is complemented by an alert expression, enhanced by the dark, bright eyes and small, erect ears. Its overall noble appearance gives it a graceful yet playful charisma.

Information

The Biewer Terrier is a cheerful and lively companion that quickly wins the hearts of its people with its charming nature. It is playful, intelligent, and curious, making it an attentive and eager-to-learn dog. Its friendly and balanced nature makes it particularly well-suited for families, as it loves spending time with its people and enjoys being involved in everything. Despite its small size, it possesses a confident aura and can sometimes show a surprisingly courageous side. It generally gets along well with other pets and enjoys being the center of attention. Throughout, it remains gentle and affectionate, developing a close bond with its caregivers.

Nutrition

A balanced diet is key to the health and well-being of the Biewer Terrier. Due to its sensitive digestion and rather small gastrointestinal tract, it is particularly important to choose high-quality food that is easily digestible and provides all necessary nutrients. High-quality wet food is a good choice, as it has a high meat content, is free from unnecessary fillers and contributes to fluid intake. Unlike dry food, which often contains many carbohydrates, wet food comes closer to a dog's natural diet and can help reduce the risk of digestive problems or tartar buildup. Supplemented with fresh vegetables and healthy oils, the Biewer Terrier receives a species-appropriate and tasty diet that provides energy and keeps its coat shiny.

Care

The Biewer Terrier is a lively and playful companion that requires a lot of attention and affection. Its long, silky coat needs regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain its characteristic shine. Daily brushing is essential, especially to prevent tangles and remove dirt. A mild dog shampoo helps keep the coat clean and supple. Since the Biewer Terrier is a very affectionate dog, it feels most comfortable in a home where it can spend plenty of time with its family. It is particularly well-suited for apartment living, as long as it gets enough exercise and mental stimulation. Walks, small play sessions, and mental challenges are important to keep it balanced and content. Even though it looks small and delicate, it should not be underestimated - consistent but loving training is crucial to give it security and orientation.

Accessories

The Biewer Terrier is an elegant and playful companion that requires special care for its fine, silky coat. A high-quality dog bed with soft padding provides the necessary comfort, while a well-fitting harness and leash combination is ideal for relaxed walks. Due to its long coat, regular grooming is essential, which is why special brushes and combs should be part of the basic equipment. Additionally, small, easily digestible food bowls and size-appropriate toys are perfect for keeping it both physically and mentally engaged.

History

The Biewer Terrier has its roots in Germany and originated from a special breeding line of the Yorkshire Terrier. In the 1980s, a breeder couple discovered puppies with a striking tricolor coat pattern in one of their litters. Excited by this extraordinary appearance, they began selectively breeding dogs with this color variant. Thus, a distinct line developed that was eventually recognized as an independent breed. Despite its relatively young history, the Biewer Terrier quickly won over many dog enthusiasts and is today particularly valued as a charming companion dog.

Health

The Biewer Terrier is considered a robust and long-lived breed, though like many small dog breeds, it can be susceptible to certain health problems. The sensitive teeth in particular require regular care to prevent tartar and resulting diseases. Patellar luxation, a displacement of the kneecap, can also occasionally occur, which is why a balanced diet and sufficient exercise should be ensured. Additionally, some representatives of the breed tend toward sensitive skin or allergies, making high-quality grooming products and a well-balanced diet important. Responsible breeding practices and regular veterinary check-ups help minimize the risk of hereditary diseases and maintain the Biewer Terrier's long-term health.

Trainability

The Biewer Terrier is a lively and playful companion that enjoys actively participating in its owners' daily life. Its energy shows in exuberant play phases, yet it equally enjoys relaxed cuddling sessions. Despite its spirited nature, it is easily trainable due to its attentive and intelligent character. Consistent but loving training helps it quickly learn new commands and integrate well into daily life. With its friendly and open nature, it is suitable for both beginners and experienced dog owners who enjoy working with it and providing mental and physical stimulation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the temperament of a Biewer Terrier?

The Biewer Terrier is a cheerful and lively companion that quickly wins the hearts of its people with its charming nature.

How much does a Biewer Terrier weigh?

An adult Biewer Terrier weighs around 1.8-3.6 kg.

How long does a Biewer Terrier live?

The life expectancy is 14-16 years.

Is the Biewer Terrier suitable for beginners?

The Biewer Terrier needs an experienced owner. Consistent training and prior dog experience matter with this breed.

How much exercise does a Biewer Terrier need?

The Biewer Terrier needs plenty of exercise. Daily walks of at least 1.5 hours and active play keep it balanced.

Can a Biewer Terrier live in an apartment?

Yes, the Biewer Terrier can live in an apartment with sufficient outdoor exercise. Regular walks are essential though.

Does the Biewer Terrier shed a lot?

The Biewer Terrier sheds very little to not at all and is considered relatively allergy-friendly.

Claudia Weise

Written by

Claudia Weise

Editor-in-Chief, Certified Nutrition Consultant & Animal Welfare Practice

Editor-in-Chief at HundeoCertified Dog Nutrition ConsultantActive in animal welfare and with dogs every day

Claudia has worked closely alongside Enrico on Hundeo since the early days. She is a certified dog nutrition consultant, is active with animal welfare topics and dogs every day, and brings that practical experience into health, care, breed, and accessory content as Editor-in-Chief.

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