Biewer Terrier Yorkie Mix: A Comprehensive Guide

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Posted Oct 31, 2024

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Cute little purebred dog in robe looking out window at home
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The Biewer Terrier Yorkie Mix is a small, adorable dog that's sure to capture your heart.

This crossbreed is a combination of the Biewer Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier, two popular toy breeds.

They typically weigh between 4-8 pounds and stand about 6-10 inches tall at the shoulder.

Their short, fine coats require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.

Biewer Terrier Yorkie Mixes are known for being friendly, outgoing, and affectionate dogs that make great companions.

They are generally good with children and other pets, but as with any breed, socialization is key.

Their small size and gentle nature make them a great choice for apartment dwellers or families with small living spaces.

Origin

The Biewer Terrier Yorkie mix, also known as the Biewer Terrier, originated in Germany 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.

Gertrud and Werner Biewer were passionate Yorkshire Terrier breeders who had been raising and breeding them for 20 years before they stumbled upon the Biewer Terrier breed.

Credit: youtube.com, Biewer Terrier - Top 10 Facts

The Biewer Terrier was initially called the German Yorkshire Terrier and made its public debut in Germany in 1986.

Genetic blood tests later showed that Biewers had their own unique genes rather than being a mix of Yorkies.

The Biewer Terrier was recognized as a purebred dog using science, through the collection of genetic data, instead of traditional pedigree documentation.

Here are some fun facts about the Biewer Terrier's origin:

  • The Biewer Terrier was born in 1984, a relatively young breed compared to some dog breeds that have ancient origins.
  • The breed was initially called the German Yorkshire Terrier.
  • The Biewer Terrier was recognized as a purebred dog using science, a first in dog breeding history.

Breed Overview

The Biewer Terrier Yorkie mix is a delightful breed that originated in Germany in the 1980s. They emerged from a Yorkshire Terrier breeding pair when a unique puppy with piebald coloring was born, leading to the intentional development of the breed.

These small dogs have a compact and well-proportioned physique, characterized by their fine, silky coat, typically tricolored with blue and white, along with gold or tan markings. They stand at an average height of 7 to 11 inches and weigh between 4 to 8 pounds.

For your interest: Brussels Griffon Mixed Breed

Credit: youtube.com, Biewer Terrier - Top 10 Facts

One of the best things about Biewer Terriers is their affectionate and loyal nature, making them wonderful companions. They are also intelligent dogs, which means they respond well to training and enjoy mental stimulation.

Here are some key characteristics of the Biewer Terrier Yorkie mix:

Biewer Terriers are generally healthy, but they can be prone to some health problems, such as patellar luxation and portosystemic shunt. They require daily exercise and grooming due to their long, flowing hair.

Physical Characteristics

The Biewer Terrier Yorkie mix is a small dog, weighing in at around 4-8 pounds. They typically range in height between 7-11 inches.

Their size is comparable to their forefather breed, the Yorkshire Terrier. They have a sturdy build with a bit more muscle and stronger bones than a Yorkie.

Their fur is hypoallergenic, but it's worth noting that there's no such thing as a 100% hypoallergenic dog. They often come in tri-color combinations of white, black, blue, tan, and gold.

Here's an interesting read: Biewer Terrier Hypoallergenic

Characteristics

Credit: youtube.com, Animal Physical Characteristics | Animal Body Structure | Animal Body Features | Science for Kids

Physical characteristics are what make us unique and define our appearance. The human body is made up of approximately 60% water, which varies depending on age, sex, and body composition.

Skin is the body's largest organ and comes in a variety of skin tones, from fair to dark, and even has different shades within those categories. It also protects us from external factors like the sun and bacteria.

Hair can be straight, curly, or a combination of both, and its texture, color, and thickness can change over time. In some cultures, hair is also a symbol of status, spirituality, or identity.

Eyes are a vital sense organ that allow us to see the world around us, and their color can range from blue to brown, green, or even a combination of colors. Some people are born with rare eye conditions that affect their vision.

Appearance

Biewer Terriers are relatively small dogs, weighing in the range of four to eight pounds and standing between seven to eleven inches tall.

Credit: youtube.com, PHYSICAL APPEARANCE

Their size is comparable to their forefather breed, the Yorkshire Terrier. They're considered members of the toy group, which is fitting given their teensy size.

You'll find Biewer Terriers in tri-color combinations of white, black, blue, tan, and gold. Their coats can be quite striking, with irregular patches of colors giving them a unique appearance.

One way to distinguish a Biewer Terrier from a Yorkshire Terrier is to look at their tail. Biewer Terriers have a full tail that plumes over the back, while Yorkies do not.

Biewer Terriers have a bit more muscle and sturdier bones than a Yorkie, and their fur is not as sparse or thin. This makes them a bit more robust than their Yorkie cousins.

They typically have two coats: the longer, fancier show coat or the shorter, scruffier puppy cut. The longer hairdo will require more brushing and washing, but it's a great way to show off their unique coloring.

Biewer Terriers don't have an undercoat, and they don't shed, making them a great choice for people with allergies. However, their coats still require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.

See what others are reading: Pitbull Terrier Mix Size

Temperament & Intelligence

Credit: youtube.com, Biewer Terrier Dog Breed: 10 Amazing Facts You Must Know

Biewer Terrier Yorkie Mixes are known for their loving and affectionate nature, often forming strong bonds with their families.

They crave human companionship and tend to be very social, which makes them great with kids, seniors, and even cats.

These dogs are incredibly energetic and love to play, requiring regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy.

Biewer Terriers are intelligent, but can be stubborn at times, requiring consistent training and patience from their owners.

They are quick to pick up on commands, but may not always listen in real-world situations, making training a challenge.

These dogs are naturally curious and love to explore their surroundings, which can sometimes get them into trouble if not properly supervised.

With proper socialization, they can become excellent watchdogs, but may not warm up to strangers quickly.

Their small size makes them excellent lap dogs, and they thrive on attention and affection from their owners.

Care and Feeding

The Biewer Terrier Yorkie mix requires regular veterinary checkups to detect any health concerns early. Your vet can help you develop a care routine specific for your dog breed that will keep them healthy.

Credit: youtube.com, 25 Foods Your Yorkshire Terrier Should Never Eat

They need daily exercise to work off their excess energy, or they may develop behavioral problems like digging and chewing. Regular daily exercise will help prevent these issues.

Their long coats require daily brushing to prevent matting and tangled fur. You can also choose to shorten their coat, which would reduce the need for brushing.

Their nails should be trimmed regularly with a nail clipper or grinder to avoid overgrowth, splitting and cracking. Their ears should be checked regularly to avoid a buildup of wax and debris, which can result in an infection.

To maintain their dental health, brush their teeth regularly. As a small breed, they may be more prone to dental issues.

Here's a summary of their feeding needs:

Limit their treat intake, and choose healthy options like fresh fruits and vegetables instead of calorie-rich treats. Freeze-dried meat is another great option, though it's often expensive.

Feeding

Feeding your Biewer Terrier requires attention to their small breed size and high energy level. They can easily gain weight if overfed, so stick to a regular feeding schedule with few treats in between.

Credit: youtube.com, How To Care For Newborn Puppies Ep 1 Feeding

Biewer Terriers have a sensitive GI system, so it's essential to feed them high-quality foods. You should ask your veterinarian for recommendations on your dog's diet, as individual needs can vary greatly.

Puppies need to be fed frequently, with at least four meals a day for the smallest puppies. This is because they can be prone to hypoglycemia if they don't eat enough.

Adult Biewer Terriers can often eat two meals a day, but some very small terriers may still need three meals. It's crucial to monitor their weight to maintain their health.

Limit your dog's treat intake, opting for healthy options like fresh fruits and vegetables instead of calorie-rich treats. Freeze-dried meat is another great option, although it can be expensive.

Here's a rough guide to Biewer Terrier feeding schedules:

Keep in mind that every dog is different, and your veterinarian may recommend a customized feeding plan for your Biewer Terrier.

Care

To keep your Biewer Terrier healthy, regular veterinary checkups are a must. This will help detect any health concerns early on.

Puppies Lying Down on Ground
Credit: pexels.com, Puppies Lying Down on Ground

Their naturally active breed requires daily exercise to burn off excess energy, or they may develop behavioral problems like digging and chewing.

Daily brushing is essential to prevent matting and tangled fur, especially if you choose to keep their coat long. You can also consider shortening their coat to reduce brushing needs.

Their nails need regular trimming with a nail clipper or grinder to avoid overgrowth, splitting, and cracking.

Their ears should be checked regularly to prevent a buildup of wax and debris, which can lead to infections.

Regular brushing of their teeth is crucial, as small breeds like the Biewer Terrier are more prone to dental issues.

You should brush their fur daily if you keep it long, and bathe them every two weeks. For a shorter coat, brushing every few days and a monthly bath should suffice.

However, be careful not to wash your dog too often, as this can dry out their skin and cause dandruff.

Clip their nails whenever you start to hear them click-clack on hard floors.

Brushing their teeth regularly is also a must, just like their fur.

Exercise and Health

Credit: youtube.com, Biewer Terrier|Everything You Need To Know | Watch Before Bring

Biewer Terrier Yorkie Mix dogs need at least 45 to 60 minutes of physical activity a day, broken into several shorter sessions to prevent overexercising.

They love interactive exercise sessions, like playing fetch or hide-and-seek, which can wear them out faster than a simple walk.

Regular walks should be brisk, and puppies and senior dogs may need less exercise, around 30 minutes a day, broken into smaller blocks.

To maintain their oral health, regular dental care, including tooth brushing and professional cleanings, is crucial.

Puppies may be prone to low blood sugar levels, or hypoglycemia, which can result in weakness, seizures, or collapse, so frequent small meals and monitoring are essential.

Here are some common health issues that may affect your Biewer Terrier Yorkie Mix:

  • Patellar luxation: the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal position, causing lameness or discomfort.
  • Tracheal collapse: the dog's trachea collapses, making breathing difficult.
  • Portosystemic shunt: the blood bypasses the liver, leading to a buildup of toxins in the bloodstream.
  • Hypoglycemia: low blood sugar levels, which can result in weakness, seizures, or collapse.

Exercise

Biewer Terriers need at least 45 to 60 minutes of physical activity a day, which can be met with brisk walks, playtime, and interactive exercise sessions.

They're surprisingly small and energetic dogs, so they require more exercise than you might think. Their intelligence makes them love interactive exercise sessions, like games and active training.

Credit: youtube.com, Wendy Suzuki: The brain-changing benefits of exercise | TED

Puppies and senior dogs may need less exercise, around 30 minutes a day, broken into several smaller blocks. For puppies, 5 minutes of playtime between naps can be plenty to keep them healthy.

Overexercising your Biewer Terrier can result in health issues, so it's essential to pay attention to their limits and not push them too hard.

Health and Conditions

Biewer Terriers are generally healthy dogs, but they do have some specific health concerns that owners should be aware of. One of the main health issues is gastrointestinal sensitivity, which means they can be picky eaters and may experience stomach upset if they're not fed the right food.

Proper diet and feeding practices are crucial to managing this sensitivity. A low-protein diet with food that includes about 15 percent protein and about 15–30 percent fat is recommended. High-fat table scraps like ham or French fries should be avoided, as they can lead to pancreatitis.

A fresh viewpoint: Fat Yorkie Terrier

Puppies Playing Together
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Biewer Terriers are also prone to patellar luxation, a condition where the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal position. This can cause lameness or discomfort, and in severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

In addition to these health concerns, Biewer Terriers may also experience tracheal collapse, which can make breathing difficult. This condition is relatively common and can often be treated with surgery if necessary.

Here are some common health issues that Biewer Terriers may experience:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Tracheal collapse
  • Gastrointestinal sensitivity
  • Portosystemic shunt
  • Hypoglycemia
  • Dental problems

Regular check-ups with a reputable veterinarian and a balanced diet can help prevent or manage these health issues. It's also essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms of these conditions, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, so that you can seek veterinary care if necessary.

Training and Behavior

The Biewer Terrier Yorkie mix is a high-energy breed that requires regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. They need at least 30 minutes of physical activity per day, which can be a combination of walks, playtime, and training sessions.

Credit: youtube.com, Houston dog training | 1 yr old Biewer Terrier Bentley potty training and behavior

Biewer Terrier Yorkie mixes are intelligent and trainable, but they can be stubborn at times. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to successful training.

Housebreaking is a crucial aspect of training a Biewer Terrier Yorkie mix. They can be prone to accidents if not trained properly, so it's essential to establish a routine and reward good behavior.

Early socialization is vital for Biewer Terrier Yorkie mixes, as they can be wary of strangers and other animals. Introduce them to new people, places, and experiences from an early age to help them develop good social skills.

Biewer Terrier Yorkie mixes are naturally affectionate and loving, but they can be sensitive to criticism or punishment. Handle them with kindness and patience, and they'll reward you with loyalty and companionship.

Living with a Biewer Terrier Yorkie Mix

Living with a Biewer Terrier Yorkie Mix is a joy, but it does require some consideration. They can thrive in either an apartment or a house with a fenced-in yard, and they'll even get enough exercise playing in the house.

Credit: youtube.com, We are expecting puppies | our whelping set up for yorkie biewers

A Biewer Terrier Yorkie Mix needs daily walks, but they can tolerate missing a day or two. They love activity, but they're also happy to settle down on your lap or in their beds. They're not high maintenance, but they do need attention and socialization.

These dogs are naturally social and enjoy playtime, but they can be injured by overly excited children. They're best suited for families with older kids or adults who can teach them how to properly approach and play with a small dog.

Living Needs

Your Biewer terrier will be just fine living in either an apartment or a house with a fenced-in yard. They'll get enough exercise playing in the house and following you around, so daily walks outside an apartment will be sufficient.

A pair of daily walks is all they need to stay happy and healthy, and missing a day or two of walks isn't a big deal. They'll also enjoy a quick dash around the backyard.

Credit: youtube.com, Biewer Terrier|Everything You Need To Know | Watch Before Bring

Biewers can tolerate hot weather, but they don't love it, so make sure they have a place to cool down during the summer. They'll appreciate a kiddie pool or a short hike to beat the heat.

Some Biewers love the snow, and they'll romp around in it enough to collect a multitude of tiny snowballs in their fur. Just be cautious of the temperature to prevent 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 like that all day long, so you need to make sure you're around most of the time or have a companion pet for your Biewer.

They can't be alone, so socialization is key when they're a puppy – after they're vaccinated, of course. This will give them an easy attitude toward other dogs and humans alike, enhancing their already friendly nature.

Children and Pets

White-and-brown Puppies
Credit: pexels.com, White-and-brown Puppies

Living with a Biewer Terrier Yorkie Mix is a wonderful experience, but it's essential to consider how they interact with children and other pets.

The Biewer Terrier is a small dog, so they can be easily injured by overly excited children. They need to learn how to properly approach and play with a small dog early on.

Introducing them to children and teaching them how to interact gently is crucial for a harmonious household. This will help prevent any potential injuries to both the dog and the child.

For the most part, Biewer Terriers get along with everyone, including adults, older kids, and senior citizens. They make great active companions.

However, it's still important to supervise interactions between children and the dog, especially in the early stages of their relationship. This will ensure that everyone is comfortable and safe.

Socialization is key when introducing a Biewer Terrier to other pets, especially dogs. Introducing them to other dogs and dog parks from an early age will make things easier.

Their smaller size makes them suitable for homes with cats, but it's still crucial to socialize them properly.

A unique perspective: Dachshund X Yorkshire Terrier

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Biewer Yorkie rare?

Yes, the Biewer Terrier is a rare breed due to its unique genetic makeup and limited breeding program. This rarity is a result of the breed's origins from a single puppy with a rare recessive piebald gene.

What is the difference between a Biewer Terrier and a Yorkshire Terrier?

Difference between Biewer Terriers and Yorkshire Terriers: Biewer Terriers have a long tail and tri-colored coat, while Yorkshire Terriers have a docked tail and are typically black and tan. This difference affects their appearance and temperament

How big does a Biewer Yorkie get?

A full-grown Biewer Terrier typically weighs 4-8 pounds and stands 7-11 inches tall. With proper care, they can live a long life, averaging 12-15 years.

Sources

  1. Biewer Terrier Club of America (biewerterrierclubofamerica.org)
  2. Gertrud and Werner Biewer (biewerbca.org)
  3. relatively small (biewerterrierclubofamerica.org)
  4. Biewer Terrer Club of America Rescue (biewerterrierclubofamerica.org)
  5. Biewer Terrier Club of America (biewerterrierclubofamerica.org)
  6. https://a-z-animals.com/animals/biewer-terrier/ (a-z-animals.com)
  7. https://dogacademy.org/breeds/biewer-terrier (dogacademy.org)
  8. Biewer Terrier Club of America (BTCA) (biewerterrierclubofamerica.org)
  9. breed standard (biewerterrierclubofamerica.org)
  10. Biewer Terrier Dog Breed Information and Pictures (petguide.com)

Robin Morissette

Writer

Robin Morissette is a versatile and engaging writer with a passion for crafting compelling content. With a keen eye for detail and a love for storytelling, Robin brings a unique perspective to their writing. Their portfolio showcases a range of topics, from in-depth explorations of the Havanese breed, to informative articles on canine origins.

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