Biewer Terrier Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Biewer Terrier, pronounced like beaver, is one of the newest toy breeds, with a striking tricolor coat of blue, white and gold. It looks like a dressed-up Yorkie, but it has its own history and personality.

Origins and appearance

The breed was developed in Germany in the 1980s by Werner and Gertrud Biewer from a Yorkshire Terrier litter that produced a puppy with an unusual piebald pattern. The line was refined, and the breed spread widely in the 2000s. Biewers are small and sturdy, with a long, silky, flowing coat parted down the back and a tail carried over the body. Colors are tricolor with white on the chest, legs and belly.

Temperament

Biewers are playful, friendly and outgoing. They enjoy being the center of attention and tend to get along with other pets. They may bark at noises and can be demanding of their owner's time. Like other toy terriers, they can have a brave streak that gets them into trouble with larger dogs. See puppy separation anxiety prevention.

Exercise

Daily walks and play sessions of thirty to forty-five minutes meet most needs. They enjoy games, tricks and exploring. Use a harness for walks and keep them away from extreme heat and cold.

Training

Biewers are intelligent and eager to please. Positive reinforcement and short sessions work best. House training may take time, as with many toy breeds. Teach calm greetings and quiet cues to temper barking.

Coat and grooming

The long hair needs brushing every day or two, with careful attention to mats behind the ears and under the legs. Bathe every few weeks. Many owners choose a shorter puppy cut. See silky coat dog grooming guide. Trim around the eyes and paws, clean ears and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Because the breed is young, owners should discuss:

• Luxating patella. See luxating patella in dogs
• Dental disease. See dental disease in dogs
• Collapsing trachea. See collapsing trachea in dogs
• Portosystemic liver shunts
• Legg-Calve-Perthes disease
• Hypoglycemia in tiny puppies. See hypoglycemia in puppies
• Eye and skin issues

Ask breeders about screening and genetic testing, including the patterns that produce the coat.

Living with a Biewer Terrier

They suit apartments and small homes. Provide warmth in cool weather and care in the heat. They enjoy travel and socializing.

A day with a Biewer

A typical day includes a morning walk and a brushing session, then midday play and rest. Evening may include a second outing and a trick session. Dogs that are included in family life do best.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include neglecting grooming, buying from sellers who prioritize color over health, leaving the dog alone for long stretches and overlooking dental care. Tiny puppies need frequent meals.

Questions to ask a breeder or rescue

Ask about the parents' health tests, how the breeder manages the tricolor coat genetics and what support is available after the sale. Ask to meet the dam and see the puppies' environment.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Biewer suits people who want a cheerful, small, long-haired dog and enjoy grooming. It may not suit those wanting low maintenance. For a similar companion, see the Yorkshire Terrier.

Puppies and the first year

Biewer puppies are playful, fragile and quick to learn. Feed small, frequent meals, keep them warm and handle the coat gently from the start. Socialize with calm people and other dogs, and introduce brushing and nail trims early. Watch for signs of low blood sugar, such as weakness or trembling.

Costs and commitment

Expect costs for grooming, dental care, parasite prevention and vet checks. The breed is still developing, so ask your vet about genetic screening. See dog vet cost guide.

The takeaway

Biewer Terriers are cute, cheerful and coat-heavy, and they need grooming, company and careful breeder selection.