Owning a Biewer Terrier can be a truly rewarding experience, but it's essential to be prepared for the responsibilities that come with it.
The Biewer Terrier is a small, affectionate dog that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of its long, silky coat.
They are intelligent and active dogs that need at least 30 minutes of exercise per day to stay happy and healthy.
Biewer Terriers are known for their friendly, outgoing personalities and make excellent family pets.
They are generally good with children and other pets, but as with any dog, early socialization is crucial to ensure they grow into confident and calm companions.
A unique perspective: Biewer Terrier Short Hair
Biewer Terrier Breeders
If you're looking for a reputable Biewer Terrier breeder, you'll want to do your due diligence in researching and vetting potential breeders. The Biewer Terrier Club of America has a list of member breeders who are AKC Parent Club members and have been given a paid opportunity to be featured on their website.
Suggestion: Biewer Yorkshire Terrier Puppies
To find a breeder, you can check the BTCA's list of member breeders, which includes their name and state. Some breeders may be more experienced than others, but they all share a common goal of bettering the Biewer Terrier breed.
Here is a list of some of the BTCA's member breeders:
- Member Name
- Member State
Note that this list may not be exhaustive, and you should always research and vet a breeder before making a decision.
Our Btca Member
Our BTCA Member Biewer Terrier Breeders are dedicated to helping you find the perfect furry companion. They have extensive experience in breeding and raising Biewer Terriers, and are committed to the betterment of the breed.
Some of our members are just starting out, while others are seasoned breeders with years of experience. But what they all have in common is a passion for the Biewer Terrier and a commitment to finding homes for these wonderful dogs.
If you're looking for a reputable breeder, be sure to do your due diligence and research their credentials. You can find a list of our BTCA member breeders below, along with their state:
- Member Name
- Member State
We recommend that you contact multiple breeders and ask plenty of questions before making a decision. This will help you find the perfect Biewer Terrier for your family and ensure that you're getting a healthy, well-socialized puppy.
Our breeders are committed to raising healthy, happy Biewer Terriers, and they're dedicated to helping you find the perfect companion. Don't hesitate to reach out to them with any questions or concerns you may have.
3 Little-Known Facts
The Biewer Terrier breed has a fascinating history. It originated in Germany in the 1980s.
Biewer Terriers were first bred by Werner and Gertrud Biewer, a couple who wanted to create a unique and affectionate companion dog. They crossed a Yorkshire Terrier with an Affenpinscher to create the Biewer Terrier.
One little-known fact about Biewer Terriers is that they are known for their low-shedding coat. This makes them a great choice for people with allergies or who prefer less dog hair.
Their low-shedding coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. Regular grooming is essential for maintaining their beautiful coat.
Worth a look: Welsh Terrier Haircut
Dog Care
Biewer Terriers require regular daily exercise to burn off excess energy and prevent behavioral problems like digging and chewing. They need at least a daily walk and active indoor play to stay happy and healthy.
Their long, silky coat requires daily brushing to prevent matting and tangled fur. You can also choose to shorten their coat, which would reduce the need for brushing.
Regular grooming is essential for Biewer Terriers. They need near-daily grooming, including brushing, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care.
Here are some specific grooming needs for your Biewer Terrier:
- Brush their coat daily, or every few days if you opt for a shorter coat
- Trim their nails regularly with a nail clipper or grinder
- Check their ears regularly to prevent infections
- Brush their teeth regularly to prevent dental issues
Their dietary needs should also be considered. Biewer Terriers have specific requirements that should be met to keep them healthy.
Biewer Terriers can get along with small children if they're taught how to properly approach and play with a small dog. However, they can be easily injured by overly excited children.
Curious to learn more? Check out: Small Yorkshire Terrier
Food & Diet
Choosing the right food for your Biewer Terrier is crucial to their health and well-being. Select a dog food that meets the nutritional guidelines set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).
Biewer Terriers are small breed dogs and benefit from a small-breed dog food. These formulas typically have smaller kibble sizes to make it easier for them to chew and digest.
Always consider your Biewer Terrier's age when selecting the best dog food. Puppies, adult dogs, and seniors have different nutritional requirements.
Biewer Terrier puppies should eat three to four times daily on a regular schedule. This helps ensure they're getting enough nutrients to support their growth and development.
Full-grown Biewer Terriers should eat once in the morning and once in the evening. This schedule helps maintain their energy levels throughout the day.
An ideal Biewer Terrier diet should be formulated for a small breed with high energy. If overfed, these pups might have a tendency to gain weight.
Additional reading: Returned Dogs
It's essential to monitor your dog's weight, activity level, and overall well-being. If your dog prefers smaller, more frequent meals, or if they have specific dietary needs, you can adjust their feeding schedule accordingly.
The amount to feed your dog varies based on their age, weight, activity level, and the specific dog food you choose. Your dog food packaging will provide recommended feeding amounts, but talking to your vet will give you the best guidance.
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Behavior and Training
Biewer Terriers are naturally alert and curious about their surroundings, often eager to investigate new things, but they can also bark at new stimuli.
Early socialization and consistent positive reinforcement training can help correct this behavior.
Biewer Terriers are descended from hunting terriers, making them athletic and intelligent, and they need opportunities to problem solve and play.
Training should begin as soon as you bring home your Biewer Terrier puppy, using positive reinforcement through treats and praise, and making training a fun game for your pup.
Biewer Terriers can have an independent streak, so patience is key during training, and enrolling your puppy in socialization and obedience classes is recommended.
Biewer Terriers are affectionate and social dogs that thrive on human interaction, making them great for families and individuals alike.
They are typically a good fit in homes with children and other pets, especially when socialized from an early age.
Biewer Terriers have a "fun-loving, childlike attitude" and are a friendly dog breed, but they are also energetic and need regular exercise to stay satisfied.
One walk every day, plus some playtime, will keep a Biewer satisfied, but they may require more exercise if you're active.
Biewer Terriers are incredibly observant and tend to bark more than the average dog, but socialization can help reduce this nosiness.
Despite being intelligent, Biewer Terriers can be stubborn, but consistency in training is still key.
Biewer Terriers are great family dogs that crave human companionship and tend to form very strong bonds with their families.
They are excellent lap dogs who are very attuned to their owner's well-being and will jump up into your lap or onto your chest if they sense you aren't feeling too hot.
Consider reading: Breeders of Hypoallergenic Dogs
Grooming
Biewer Terrier grooming is a crucial aspect of their care. They have long, silky coats that require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
To keep their coat healthy, daily brushing with a slicker brush is recommended. This will help distribute their natural oils and keep their coat clean. Brushing also helps remove dust and debris.
Biewer Terriers don't require professional grooming, but their fur can become matted quickly if not brushed regularly. You'll need to brush their coat frequently throughout the week, ideally with a pin brush or metal comb.
Their fur texture is prone to tangling, so be prepared to spend some time removing these tangles. Brushing also helps prevent matting, which can be painful for your dog.
In addition to brushing, you'll also need to trim your dog's nails regularly. Overgrown nails can be uncomfortable and even lead to infections. You'll know it's time to trim their nails when you can hear them clicking on a hard surface.
For your interest: Yorkshire Terrier Puppy Grooming
To keep your Biewer Terrier's coat looking its best, you can also consider shortening their coat. This will reduce the need for daily brushing, but still requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
Here's a rough guide to help you understand the grooming needs of your Biewer Terrier:
Remember, grooming is an essential part of your Biewer Terrier's care. Regular grooming will help prevent matting, tangling, and other coat-related issues.
Health
Biewer Terrier breeders should be aware of the potential health issues that can affect their dogs. Biewer Terriers are generally healthy dogs, but they may be predisposed to a few health issues.
Gastrointestinal Tract Sensitivity is a common issue in Biewer Terriers, causing vomiting, diarrhea, or gastrointestinal distress. Proper diet and feeding practices can help manage this sensitivity.
Dental problems, such as tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss, can occur in Biewer Terriers. Regular dental care, including tooth brushing and professional cleanings, can help maintain their oral health.
If this caught your attention, see: Yorkshire Terrier Health Issues
Biewer Terriers are prone to Patellar Luxation, a condition where the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal position, causing lameness or discomfort. Surgery may be necessary in severe cases.
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is a concern in Biewer Terrier puppies, causing weakness, seizures, or collapse. Frequent small meals and monitoring can help prevent hypoglycemic episodes.
Portosystemic Shunt is a congenital condition where blood flow bypasses the liver, leading to a buildup of toxins in the bloodstream. It can cause symptoms like stunted growth, neurological problems, and gastrointestinal issues.
Biewer Terriers may also be prone to Eye Conditions, including cataracts, retinal issues, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Regular eye examinations by a veterinary ophthalmologist can help detect and manage these conditions.
Common Health Issues in Biewer Terriers:
Biewer Terriers are also prone to Tracheal Collapse, a condition where the trachea collapses, making breathing difficult. This condition is rarely deadly and can often be treated with surgery if necessary.
It's essential for Biewer Terrier breeders to work closely with a reputable veterinarian who is familiar with the breed and its specific health concerns. Regular check-ups, a balanced diet, appropriate exercise, and responsible breeding practices can all contribute to maintaining the overall health and well-being of Biewer Terriers.
Living with a Biewer Terrier
Living with a Biewer Terrier requires some consideration. They can thrive in apartments or houses with yards, but daily walks are essential.
Biewer Terriers love activity, but they also enjoy cuddling on your lap or in their beds. However, they won't stay still for long, so you need to be around most of the time or have a companion pet to keep them company.
Their high energy levels mean they need regular exercise, but they can also get enough activity playing indoors. They can even participate in dock diving and agility competitions if you're up for it.
In hot weather, make sure they have a place to cool down, and in cold weather, be cautious not to let them get frostbite or hypothermia. Some Biewers love playing in the snow, but it's essential to keep an eye on the temperature.
Socialization is crucial when your Biewer Terrier is a puppy, especially since they can't be left alone for extended periods. Introducing them to other dogs and pets from an early age will make things easier as they grow.
Living Needs
Biewer terriers are adaptable to living in either apartments or houses with a fenced-in yard. They can get enough exercise playing in the house and following you around.
A daily walk outside an apartment is sufficient, and missing a day of walks is not a big deal. Your terrier will get enough exercise playing in the house.
Biewers can tolerate hot weather but don't love it, so make sure they have a place to cool down during the summer. They can even enjoy a kiddie pool or short hike.
Some Biewers love the snow, romping around in it enough to collect tiny snowballs in their fur. Be cautious that it's not too cold outside for your dog to play safely without risk of frostbite or hypothermia.
These dogs love activity, but once they're worn out, they're likely to settle down on your lap or in their beds. They won't stay that way all day long, though.
You need to make sure you're around most of the time or have a companion pet for your Biewer, or they might misbehave when left alone.
Children and Pets
Living with a Biewer Terrier means being mindful of their small size and energetic personalities. They can be easily injured by overly excited children, so it's essential to teach kids how to properly approach and play with a small dog.
Children can get along with Biewer Terriers, but it's crucial to introduce them early in life to ensure a smooth transition. These dogs are great companions for families with kids, especially older kids who can understand and respect their boundaries.
Biewer Terriers are not afraid to stand up for themselves against larger dogs, which means they can hold their own in a household with other pets. Introducing them to other dogs and dog parks early on will make socialization easier and less stressful for both the dog and other pets in the household.
Owning a Biewer Terrier
Owning a Biewer Terrier requires a lifelong commitment, especially considering their long lifespan. They need regular social engagement and attention from family members, so it's essential to have a home with people who can provide that.
Daily walks and play sessions are essential to keep Biewer Terriers happy, as they thrive on human interaction and need to be kept active. Their long, silky coat also requires near-daily grooming, which can be a significant commitment in terms of time and money.
Biewer Terriers can make great family dogs, but supervision is crucial, especially around young children, as they are small and easily injured.
Owning Essentials
Owning a Biewer Terrier requires a lifelong commitment, especially considering their long lifespan.
You'll need to provide regular social engagement and attention, as they thrive on human interaction and can get anxious if left alone for too long.
Daily walks and play sessions are essential to keep your Biewer Terrier happy and active. They're not just cute looks, they need to be kept moving!
Grooming can be a significant commitment, both in time and money, due to their long, silky coat. Be prepared to spend time brushing and caring for their coat.
Biewer Terriers are adaptable and can get along with other pets, especially when introduced from a young age. However, they do have a high prey drive and may chase small pets like rabbits.
They're suitable for homes with cats, as their smaller size makes them less intimidating. But, personality plays a major role in their interactions with other pets.
Supervision is crucial when introducing your Biewer Terrier to children, as they can be easily injured by overly excited kids. Socialization and training are essential to ensure a harmonious household.
Biewer Terriers require regular exercise and plenty of playtime, making them a perfect fit for active homes. They're also gentle dogs and not particularly aggressive, but they do need to be taught how to interact with children and other pets.
Their smaller size makes them a good choice for families in small spaces like apartments, but they can be noisy, so be prepared for barking.
History
The Biewer Terrier breed has a fascinating history. It was born in 1984 when a Yorkie belonging to Gertrud and Werner Biewer gave birth to a pair of puppies with a unique black, white, and tan coat.
The Biewer Terrier made its public debut in Germany in 1986. Initially, it was called the German Yorkshire terrier, but it has since become a recognized breed in its own right.
The breed arrived in the United States in 2003 and quickly gained popularity. By 2021, the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the Biewer Terrier as a full, pure breed in the Toy Group.
Here are some key facts about the Biewer Terrier's history:
- The Biewer Terrier was first bred in 1984.
- The breed was initially called the German Yorkshire terrier.
- The Biewer Terrier arrived in the United States in 2003.
- The AKC recognized the Biewer Terrier as a full, pure breed in 2021.
The Biewer Terrier's history is a testament to the power of science and genetics in dog breeding. In 2014, the AKC inducted the breed into their Foundation Stock Service, and by 2021, it was recognized as a full, pure breed.
Final Thoughts
Owning a Biewer Terrier can be a wonderful experience, but it's essential to be aware of their unique characteristics. They're extremely similar to the Yorkshire Terrier, but with some key differences.
One thing to keep in mind is that Biewer Terriers are prone to chasing things, so be prepared for an active pet. They're also very people-oriented, but they prefer to play with their owners above everything else.
If you're considering bringing a Biewer Terrier into your family, be aware that they're a rare breed and can be hard to find outside of Germany. Good breeders are also scarce, so you may need to wait for a while for a puppy to become available.
Here are some things to consider when looking for a Biewer Terrier breeder:
- Look for breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs.
- Ask about the breeder's experience with the Biewer Terrier breed.
- Make sure the breeder is transparent about the puppy's ancestry and health status.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost of a Biewer Terrier?
The average cost of a Biewer Terrier is around $3,500. For more information on pricing and finding a reputable breeder, visit the BTCA Member Biewer Terrier Breeders website.
What is the difference between a Yorkie and a Biewer?
Difference between a Yorkie and a Biewer: Yorkies have docked tails and are usually Black & Tan, while Biewer Terriers have long tails and are always Tri-colored
Is a Biewer Terrier a rare breed?
Yes, the Biewer Terrier is a rare breed due to its unique genetic makeup and limited breeding program. This rarity makes the Biewer Terrier a highly sought-after companion.
Sources
- Biewer Terrier Breeders (biewerterrierclubofamerica.org)
- high-calorie nutritional supplement (chewy.com)
- Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) (ofa.org)
- Gertrud and Werner Biewer (biewerbca.org)
- Biewer Terrier diet (petguide.com)
- American Kennel Club (akc.org)
- https://a-z-animals.com/animals/biewer-terrier/ (a-z-animals.com)
- https://dogacademy.org/breeds/biewer-terrier (dogacademy.org)
- According to the BTCA (.s3.amazonaws.com)
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