Introduction
The Biewer Terrier, also known as the Biewer Yorkshire Terrier, the Biewer Yorkie, or just the Biewer, is a new type of toy terrier breed. It has not yet been recognized by the AKC, but due to their rareness they have been accepted into the American Rare Breed Association (ARBA) and of course their own club: the Biewer Terrier Club of American (BTCA).
The average Biewer weighs between 4 – 8 pounds, and they stand around 9 inches at the withers.
Temperament
These very tiny terriers are reported to have happy and childlike personalities, and they will fit well in smaller households. The Biewer Terrier does well around families with children, and they will bond very closely with their human companions. They love to play and spend time with their people, and they are very friendly. They reportedly do not bark much, and the only drawback to this bred has to do with its size.
Care
Because the Biewer Terrier is so small, they need regular supervision, special care, and children need to be taught how to handle them so they are not accidentally injured. Biewers should never be left alone outside unsupervised as they can be prey to birds such as hawks and eagles. They can also wiggle through small holes, so any fences or walls need to be checked regularly. Biewers can also be injured if they fall, so pet owners need to closely watch their Biewer if it is up on a piece of high furniture or, for example, if they have their pet up on a counter for bathing or grooming purposes.
Health
Due to their rareness, and new emergence, the average life expectancy of a Biewer Terrier is not yet known. Though breed clubs indicate an expected lifespan of 12 to 17 years. They are prone to certain types of health conditions though which the pet owners should be aware of. Their long coat needs to be brushed daily, and they should be bathed on a regular basis.
History
The Biewer Terrier was created in 1984, by a Mr. and Mrs. Biewer of Germany, when they cross bred two of their yorkies. For the next four years they worked on developing the breed and its recognition as a breed. Biewers were introduced to the U.S. in 2003, and today that are still considered to be a rare breed.
Biewer Terrier
Quick Facts
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Weight: 4-8 lbs
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Height: ~9 in
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Coat: Silky drop coat without an undercoat
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Temperament: Intelligent, inquisitive, friendly, playful
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Lifespan: 12-17 years