Biewer Terrier
A happy accident of genetics — the Yorkie's tri-coloured, light-hearted cousin.
Vital stats
| Size | Toy · 18–28 cm |
| Weight | 2–4 kg |
| Life expectancy | 13–16 years |
| Energy | Moderate — 30 min/day plus play |
| Shedding | Minimal — fine, hair-like coat |
| Coat | Long, silky, straight · blue/black, white, gold |
| Group | Toy · AKC |
Breed traits
Friendliness
Care
Mind
Temperament
The Biewer began as a pure companion and it shows: this is a merry, dedicated lapdog with a whimsical, almost childlike streak, less sharp-edged than many terriers. It loves its people intensely, greets the world with optimism, and carries just enough Yorkshire ancestry to announce visitors with conviction.
Habits & quirks
Tail like a flag
The plumed tail arches over the back and waves almost constantly.
Perch seeking
It claims sofa backs and laps for a better view of household affairs.
Tiny town crier
Doorbells, deliveries and passing cats are all faithfully reported.
Pocket adventurer
Small enough to go everywhere — and firmly of the opinion that it should.
Care
| Grooming | Comb the silky coat daily to prevent tangles, or keep a shorter puppy trim; tie up or trim the topknot away from the eyes. |
| Feeding | Tiny dogs have tiny reserves — regular meals matter, especially for puppies prone to low blood sugar. |
| Handling | Fragile bones under the fluff: supervise children and discourage leaps from furniture. |
| Dental | Small mouths crowd teeth — brush regularly and expect routine dental care. |
Common questions
Is a Biewer Terrier the same as a Yorkie?
It descends from Yorkshire Terriers but is now a genetically distinct breed, developed in Germany from 1984. The giveaway is the piebald tri-colour coat no standard Yorkie carries.
Are Biewer Terriers good with children?
They're friendly but tiny and easily injured, so they suit families with gentle, older children best. Toddlers and 2 kg dogs are a risky mix.
Do Biewer Terriers shed?
Barely — the fine, hair-like coat drops very little. The trade-off is daily combing to keep that long silk from matting.