What Is a Biewer Terrier?

The Biewer Terrier is a purebred toy dog recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2021. Originating in Germany, the breed is known for its tri-colored coat, friendly temperament, and companion-focused nature. Although it shares ancestry with the Yorkshire Terrier, the Biewer Terrier is a distinct breed with its own history, genetic identity, and breed standard.

About the Biewer Terrier

Biewer Terriers are the sweetest, loving toy breed dog with a happy-go-lucky personality. Biewers are known for their unique look, their beautiful, tri-colored coat and playful spirit, this German breed has been winning hearts since it gained full American Kennel Club (AKC) recognition in 2021. Whether you’re curious about their origins, how they differ from Yorkshire Terriers, or what makes them special, this guide covers everything you need to know about the Biewer Terrier, straight from our passion for the breed at Edelweiss Biewer Terriers.

Origins of the Biewer Terrier

The Biewer Terrier began in Germany in the 1980s, born from Yorkshire Terriers with a unique genetic twist. The Biewer was first bred by Werner and Gertrud Biewer, Yorkshire Terrier breeders. They noticed a puppy with distinctive white, black, and tan markings in one of their Yorkshire Terrier litters, thanks to a recessive piebald gene. The Biewers set out to selectively breed for this trait, integrating other breeds with the Yorkshire Terrier and creating a new breed named after them. By 1989, the Biewer Terrier was established in Germany, and it slowly spread to the U.S., where it joined the AKC Toy Group in 2021 after years of growing popularity.

Biewer Terrier vs. Yorkshire Terrier: What’s the Difference?

At a glance, Biewer Terriers and Yorkshire Terriers look like cousins, but a few key differences set them apart:

Coat Color: Yorkshire Terriers typically have a blue-and-tan coat, while Biewers are tri-colored, with combinations of blue/black, gold, and white. The color blocking doesn’t require more of any one color and is up to individual preference but they must have white and black/blue on their body, white legs, and a white tip on their tail. Their heads must always contain Gold.
Origins: Yorkshire Terriers trace back to 19th-century England, bred to be a ratters in kitchens, thus their personalities are a bit different than Biewers. Biewers were first established in 1983 in Germany and were developed specifically for their tri-colored coat and companion qualities.
Recognition: Yorkies have been AKC-recognized since 1885, while Biewer Terriers are newer to the scene, officially recognized by the AKC in 2021.
Tail: Biewers have a lovely long tail that should arch over the back in a teacup handle fashion. While Yorkies in the USA have docked tails. Biewer Terriers carry a signature ponytail, with hair tied up to keep it out of their eyes, while Yorkies have top knots.
Temperament: Both are lively and loyal, however Yorkies can be picky about their people and not always friendly toward all, they also often have a high ratting drive. Biewers are often described as having a slightly more playful, childlike demeanor, friendly with most people and dogs and often seen carrying toys around like treasures.

Despite similarities in size and both breeds having a beautiful drop coat, the Biewer Terrier’s unique coloring and genetic background make it a distinct breed, not a Yorkie variant.

Biewer Terrier Basics: Size, Color, Lifespan, and More

Here’s a quick rundown of what defines the Biewer Terrier:

Size: These toy dogs stand 7-11 inches tall and weigh 4-8 pounds, making them perfect lap dogs and travel companions.
Coat and Color: Their long, drop coat is a standout feature, flowing in patterns of blue or black, and white with the signature Gold/black/white on the head (or Gold black head or gold white head) . Regular grooming is a must to prevent mats.
Temperament: Biewers are playful, intelligent, and loving. They adore being around people, get along with other pets, and often act like puppies well into adulthood, happily toting toys or chasing after fun.
Lifespan: With good nutrition and care, Biewers live 12-16 years, typical for small breeds.
Hypoallergenic: Their coat is actual hair not fur, making them a great choice for allergy sufferers, though no dog is 100% hypoallergenic. Daily brushing (if kept in coat, weekly if cut down) and occasional baths keep their coat healthy.
Activity Level: Biewers are energetic but don’t need marathon walks. Short play sessions, indoor games, or a quick stroll keep them happy.
Health: Generally hardy, they can be prone to dental issues or luxating patellas (slipping kneecaps), like many toy breeds. Regular vet checkups and health testing (like we do at Edelweiss) ensure a long, happy life.

Why Choose a Biewer Terrier?

Biewer Terriers are more than just a bougie looking puppy with an adorable face. Their small size makes them an excellent choice as travel companions, and their friendly nature allows them to blend in seamlessly with families, singles, or seniors. They’re smart enough to learn tricks but cuddly enough to be your Netflix buddy. Additionally, they have the coveted hypoallergenic coat for those who can’t own dogs that have fur.

At Von Edelweiss Biewer Terriers, we’ve seen firsthand how these dogs bring joy to our forever puppy families. Biewer Terriers are gaining a lot of fans across the U.S. If you’re thinking about getting one, expect a loyal friend who brings joy every day.