Biewer Terrier
Also known as Biewer Yorkshire Terrier · Biewer
Germany, Companion and toy dogs
- Size
- Toy
- Height
- 18–28 cm
- Weight
- 2–4 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Cheerful
- Playful
- Gentle
- Elegant
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Biewer Terrier
The Biewer Terrier is a toy breed with a long, silky coat in blue, white and gold or black, white and tan. It looks similar to a Yorkshire Terrier but has bold white markings. It is a lively companion dog.
Temperament
Biewers are usually cheerful, playful and affectionate, with a gentle temperament. They enjoy attention and are generally sociable with people and other pets.
Exercise
Short walks and indoor play are enough. They enjoy games and trick training.
Grooming
The long coat needs daily brushing if kept long, or many owners choose a shorter trim. Regular dental care is essential.
Care & wellbeing
Use a harness to protect the throat. Feed small meals regularly to puppies. Watch for limping or slow growth and consult a vet if seen.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 3 kg adult- Water
- 120 ml–180 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 260 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 60–90 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing most days
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Biewer Terrier
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
The breed began in Germany in 1984, when a piebald puppy appeared in a litter of Yorkshire Terriers belonging to Werner and Gertrud Biewer. They bred for the white pattern and the dogs became known by their name. DNA studies later found that American Biewers differed genetically from Yorkshire Terriers, which supported recognition as a separate breed. The AKC recognised the Biewer Terrier in 2021.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Patellar luxation
- Dental disease
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease
- Portosystemic (liver) shunt
- Hypoglycaemia in puppies
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Patella check
- Eye examination
- Liver function test
Not every Biewer Terrier is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Regular professional grooming adds up
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Biewer Terrier right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Think twice if
- You don't have time for frequent brushing or the cost of professional grooming
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Biewer Terrier get?
Adult Biewer Terriers typically stand about 18–28 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 2–4 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Biewer Terriers live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Biewer Terrier need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Biewer Terrier need?
Brushing most days. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Biewer Terriers easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Biewer Terriers shed?
Very little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Biewer Terriers good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Biewer Terrier live in a flat?
Usually, yes — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Biewer Terriers have?
The breed can be prone to patellar luxation, dental disease, legg-calvé-perthes disease. Not every Biewer Terrier is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Germany
- Type
- Companion and toy dogs
- Recognition
- Recognised by the AKC; not recognised by the FCI or The Kennel Club