Biewer Terrier vs Yorkie: Key Differences and Similarities

The Biewer Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier, or Yorkie, are two popular toy breeds that are often confused with each other due to their similar appearance.

One key difference between the two breeds is their history, with the Biewer Terrier originating from Germany in the 1980s as a cross between a Yorkshire Terrier and a Maltese, while the Yorkie has a long history dating back to the mid-19th century in England.

The Biewer Terrier is known for its three distinct colors: blue and white, black and tan, and red and white, whereas the Yorkie typically has a steel blue and tan coat.

In terms of size, the Biewer Terrier is slightly larger than the Yorkie, weighing between 7-12 pounds and standing 8-10 inches tall, compared to the Yorkie's 7-10 pounds and 6-7 inches tall.

For your interest: Biewer Terrier History

The Biewer Terrier breed emerged from Germany in the 1980s, originating from a specific breeding line of Yorkshire Terriers.

Mr. and Mrs. Biewer developed the breed by breeding Yorkshire Terriers with the goal of achieving a dog with distinctive tri-colored markings.

Their breeding program was eventually recognized, and by 2014 the Biewer Terrier gained acceptance by the American Kennel Club Foundation Stock Service (ACK/FSS), distinguishing it as a separate breed from the purebred Yorkshire Terrier.

The Biewer Terrier is one of the newest dog breeds recognized by the AKC in 2021, with its history dating back to 1984 when Werner and Gertrude Biewer, experienced Yorkshire terrier breeders from Germany, had two puppies with an unusual color.

These puppies, named Schneeflocken von Friedheck and Schneeman, had white coats with black and blue patches instead of the tan and blue markings of the typical Yorkshire terrier.

The Biewer family selectively bred these puppies to develop a consistent population of Biewer terriers, and the breed was eventually named after them.

Biewer terriers were imported to the United States in the early 2000s, and the Biewer Terrier Club of America (BTCA) was formed.

The BTCA sent blood samples to laboratories to determine whether Biewer Terriers were purebred or a variety of the Yorkshire terrier, and the results showed the Biewer terrier was indeed a purebred dog breed, separate from the Yorkshire terrier.

Currently, the number of registered Biewer terriers is only a few thousand in the United States, but the breed is gaining popularity.

Getting a Biewer terrier can be expensive, and there are very few breeders in the US, making it a rare and sought-after breed.

A different take: How Many Puppies Can a Yorkie Terrier Have

Biewer Terriers and Yorkshire Terriers have distinct physical characteristics that set them apart. The Biewer Terrier typically stands about 7 to 11 inches tall.

The size difference between the two breeds is noticeable, with the Biewer Terrier growing up to 4 inches taller than the Yorkshire Terrier.

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The Biewer Terrier typically stands about 7 to 11 inches tall and weighs between 4-8 pounds.

Both breeds are known as toy-sized, but the Biewer Terrier is generally larger in size compared to the Yorkshire Terrier.

The Yorkshire Terrier generally measures in the range of 8-9 inches in height and weighs 4-7 pounds.

These size differences are noticeable, but they're not drastic, making both breeds a great fit for those who want a small but lively companion.

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The Yorkshire Terrier's coat is traditionally dark steel blue and tan, which tends to become lighter with age. Their hair is glossy, fine, and straight.

Biewer Terriers have a tri-colored coat of white, black, and tan color. This unique display of colors is due to their genetic mutation that happened in the 1980s.

The Biewer Terrier's coat is silky and grows fast, requiring daily grooming to keep its flowing appearance.

The Biewer Terrier's tail is often carried high over its body, resembling a plume.

Their piebald genetic history leads to more variation in the patterns of their hair color, making each one unique.

The Yorkshire Terrier, on the other hand, is known for its compact size and traditional blue and tan coat.

The hair on a Yorkshire Terrier's head can grow so long that it's often necessary to gather it in a band to keep it from obscuring their vision.

Take a look at this: Biewer Terrier Short Hair

The Biewer Terrier's tail is often described as a plume, carried high over its body.

In contrast, the Yorkshire Terrier has a typically reduced tail, although reduced tails are now becoming less common in various parts of the world.

The Biewer Terrier has traditionally a long tail, which is a distinctive feature of the breed.

The long tail of the Biewer Terrier allows it to be carried high, whereas the reduced tail of the Yorkshire Terrier is often a result of breeding.

For your interest: What Is the Lifespan of a Yorkie Terrier

The Biewer terrier is an intelligent dog breed with an alert and curious personality. They're problem solvers who will find ways to get what they want if something's in the way.

Biewer terriers are willing to learn new things and enjoy puzzles and interactive toys. This means they require a great deal of mental stimulation.

Their intelligence makes training easier and enjoyable, but it also means they can get bored if their schedule gets monotonous.

Both Biewer Terriers and Yorkshire Terriers share a lively and affectionate nature, but they have distinct personalities shaped by their breed histories. They're both smart and loving, often forming strong bonds with their owners.

Biewer Terriers display a friendly and playful disposition, embodying both the inquisitiveness of terriers and a certain degree of independence. They thrive in active homes and require regular playtime. They might showcase some stubbornness, but with consistent training, they can be quite amiable companions.

Additional reading: How Many Types of Yorkshire Terriers Are There

On the other hand, Yorkshire Terriers are renowned for their unwavering loyalty and affectionate nature, making them excellent companion pets. Their temperament is a blend of a terrier's tenacity and an eagerness to please, which makes them smart and relatively easy to train.

Here's a comparison of their temperaments:

Biewer Terriers are gentler and more adaptive, making them excellent companions for families with children or other pets at home. They're also highly trainable, responding well to positive reinforcement techniques.

Both Biewer Terriers and Yorkshire Terriers share a lively and affectionate nature, but they also have distinct personalities shaped by their breed histories. They are known for being friendly and playful, with a strong desire to please their owners.

Biewer Terriers are intelligent and loving dogs that form strong bonds with their owners, which is manifested in their loyalty. However, they can be stubborn at times, but with consistent training, they can be quite amiable companions.

Yorkshire Terriers, on the other hand, are renowned for their unwavering loyalty and affectionate nature, making them excellent companion pets. They are smart and relatively easy to train, but they can be somewhat independent, which may translate to occasional stubborn behaviors.

Both breeds are highly intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement techniques during training. They are also social animals that require early and regular socialization to prevent territorial or aggressive behaviors from developing.

Here are some key similarities and differences in the personalities and temperaments of Biewer Terriers and Yorkshire Terriers:

Biewer Terriers are generally more adaptable and gentle, making them excellent companions for families with children or other pets. They are also more energetic and require regular playtime and exercise to keep them physically and mentally fit.

Biewer terriers are good at alerting their pack to unusual sounds and sights. They'll let you know if there's something or someone in the yard that shouldn't be there.

They'll bark at unusual things, but don't expect them to guard a territory. They're small dogs, after all, and that's not their capability.

Biewer Terriers and Yorkshire Terriers are both small breeds that require regular veterinary check-ups to monitor their health. They can live up to 14-16 years with proper care.

Both breeds are prone to hypoglycemia, a condition that can cause low blood sugar, especially in smaller breeds. Regular feeding of small, frequent meals can help manage this condition.

Biewer Terriers are generally healthy, but they can be subject to certain health conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), a degenerative eye disorder that can lead to blindness. Regular eye exams are essential to identify this condition early on.

Here are some common health issues that both breeds can face:

Regular exercise, a high-quality diet, and regular veterinary check-ups are essential to maintaining the health and well-being of both breeds.

Biewer Terriers and Yorkshire Terriers are known to have relatively long lifespans for small dogs, typically ranging from 13 to 16 years.

Both breeds are generally healthy, but they can be prone to certain health conditions, including hypoglycemia, which is particularly common in smaller breeds. This condition can be managed with proper diet and care.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is another common health issue in both breeds, which can eventually lead to blindness. Regular eye exams are essential to identify this condition early on.

Biewer Terriers are also susceptible to patellar luxation, tracheal collapse, Legg-Calve-Perthes, eye issues, dental problems, and digestive disorders.

Yorkshire Terriers, including Parti and Biewer varieties, are prone to dental issues, such as tooth crowding and plaque buildup, which can lead to periodontal disease. Regular dental care, including brushing and professional cleanings, is crucial.

Here are some common health issues found in both Parti Yorkies and Biewer Yorkies:

Feeding small, frequent meals can help manage hypoglycemia in both breeds. A high-quality commercial hypoallergenic food or a raw food diet may be beneficial for dogs with food allergies. However, a raw diet should be introduced with care and under the guidance of a veterinarian or dog nutritionist.

Exercise is essential for both Biewer Terriers and Yorkshire Terriers. Daily walks and playtime are a must for Biewer Terriers, who tend to be more energetic.

Both breeds require regular exercise to stay fit and prevent behavioral issues. Regular exercise also promotes overall health in both breeds.

Biewer Terriers need daily walks coupled with playtime to keep them happy and healthy. Yorkshire Terriers also need regular exercise, but their needs are slightly different.

High-quality dog food suitable for the respective size and energy level of the breed is recommended. Portion control is essential to prevent overeating and maintain a healthy weight.

Here's a quick rundown of the exercise and diet needs of Biewer Terriers and Yorkshire Terriers:

Both Parti and Biewer Yorkies are often labeled as hypoallergenic because they have hair that grows continuously like human hair, which helps reduce dander.

Their fine, silky coat sheds very little, making them a better choice for individuals with allergies.

However, no dog is entirely free from allergens, so regular grooming is essential to keep dander and shedding under control.

Brushing and occasional baths can help minimize the risk of allergic reactions.

As a bonus, both Parti and Biewer Yorkies are prone to food allergies, so selecting a high-quality commercial hypoallergenic food or even a raw diet can be a great way to alleviate allergy symptoms.

A raw diet eliminates processed chemicals and fillers that often cause food allergies, making it a viable option for Yorkies with allergies.

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When it comes to caring for your Biewer Terrier or Yorkshire Terrier, regular vet visits are a must. This will help ensure they stay healthy and happy.

Both breeds require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. Biewer Terriers have a tri-colored coat that needs more attention, especially if it's long. Daily brushing is a must to prevent matting, and professional grooming is recommended to maintain coat length and health.

Biewer Terriers need daily exercise, but the amount of exercise they need will depend on their age and health. A short walk or playtime in the yard can be enough to keep them happy and healthy.

Socialization and obedience training are also crucial for both breeds. This will help them become well-behaved and confident companions.

Here are some key grooming needs for Biewer Terriers:

Regular grooming is essential for both breeds, but it's especially important for Biewer Terriers with their tri-colored coat.

The Biewer Terrier and Yorkshire Terrier are two breeds that share a common ancestry, but have distinct differences in their physical characteristics and origins. The Biewer Terrier typically measures between 7 to 11 inches in height, whereas the Yorkshire Terrier stands slightly shorter at around 8-9 inches tall.

In terms of weight, Biewer Terriers have a weight range of 4-8 pounds, making them potentially a bit heavier than Yorkshire Terriers, which tend to weigh between 4-7 pounds. Both breeds require regular grooming due to their long, silky coats.

Here's a comparison chart to help illustrate the key differences between the two breeds:

Despite their differences, both breeds share a similar temperament, often described as intelligent, courageous, and energetic, making both suitable for various types of households.

The Biewer Terrier and Yorkshire Terrier may look similar, but they have some key differences. The Biewer Terrier typically measures between 7 to 11 inches in height, while the Yorkshire Terrier stands slightly shorter at around 8-9 inches tall.

The weight difference between the two breeds is minimal, with Biewer Terriers weighing between 4-8 pounds and Yorkshire Terriers weighing between 4-7 pounds.

One of the most striking differences between the two breeds is their coat color. Biewer Terriers are known for their unique piebald coloration, a combination of white with black and tan markings, while Yorkshire Terriers are born with an almost black coat that gradually transitions to a mix of blue and tan as they mature.

The Biewer Terrier's distinct piebald coloration is a result of a recessive gene, setting it apart from the Yorkshire Terrier's more traditional coat pattern.

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Both breeds are popular choices for dog lovers, especially those looking for a small, companion-sized pet.

They share a similar temperament, often described as intelligent, courageous, and energetic, making both suitable for various types of households including those with children, albeit socialization and proper introduction are important.

Both breeds require regular grooming due to their long, silky coats; however, the Biewer Terrier’s coat may demand slightly more attention because of the additional white fur that can show dirt more readily.

Here's a comparison of their grooming needs:

The Biewer Terrier and Yorkshire Terrier share many characteristics, but they also have some key differences. Understanding these similarities and differences can help you decide which breed is right for you.

Both Biewer terriers and Yorkies are surprisingly adaptable dogs, despite their small size. They can make great watchdogs, alerting their owners with a bark if they sense something unusual.

Their intelligence is one of their most valuable assets, making them trainable with consistent effort. However, their independent nature means they can be stubborn at times, requiring patience and persistence from their owners.

Adaptability is key when it comes to these toy companion dogs, and their unique traits set them apart from other breeds. Here are some of their most notable adaptability traits:

Overall, both Biewer terriers and Yorkies have the potential to make wonderful pets for the right owner, as long as their needs are met and their well-being is prioritized.

The Biewer Terrier and Yorkshire Terrier have distinct recognition and popularity standings. The Yorkshire Terrier is a well-established breed recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) since 1885.

The Biewer Terrier, on the other hand, was only officially recognized by the AKC in January 2021. This new recognition signifies its emerging popularity and increased breeding efforts.

Both breeds have variations in breed popularity, AKC recognition, and availability, which can affect prices based on pedigree and the reputation of the breeder.

For another approach, see: Akc Biewer Terrier

Breed popularity can vary significantly between the Biewer and Yorkshire Terrier. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes the Yorkshire Terrier but not the Biewer.

Prices for both breeds can fluctuate based on pedigree and the reputation of the breeder. This means that a Biewer from a reputable breeder may cost more than a Yorkshire Terrier from a less well-known breeder.

The popularity of the Yorkshire Terrier is reflected in its widespread availability, whereas the Biewer may be harder to find due to its relatively new status as a recognized breed.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) has been recognizing the Yorkshire Terrier breed since 1885, making them one of the most popular breeds in the country.

The Biewer Terrier, on the other hand, was only officially recognized by the AKC in January 2021, but its recognition signifies its emerging popularity and increased breeding efforts.

The AKC recognition of the Biewer Terrier is a significant milestone, but it's worth noting that not all registries in the US recognize the breed.

Biewer Terriers are recognized by the American Canine Registry, which relies on the Biewer Yorkie Association for standards of the breed.

Parti Yorkies, which have a white patched coat, are not considered a breed apart from Yorkshire Terriers and cannot compete in AKC shows.

The cost of owning a Biewer Terrier or a Yorkie can be a significant factor to consider. Initial costs can vary widely based on lineage and breeder location, with some Biewer Terriers costing upwards of $3,000.

To give you a better idea, here's a breakdown of the costs you can expect:

As you can see, both breeds come with a price tag, but the costs can add up quickly. Maintenance costs for both breeds include regular grooming, healthcare, and nutritious food, which can contribute to ongoing expenses.