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Biewer Terrier
Characteristics, History, and Health

Biewer Terrier

Is this breed part of your dog’s ancestry?

Basepaws analyzes this breed as part of a group of other breeds.

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What is a merged breed?

Basepaws analyzes this breed as part of a group that also includes Biewer Terrier, Yorkshire Terrier.

Despite being distinct in characteristics and origin, some pairs or groups of breeds lack the number of genetic differences required to distinguish these populations from one another, particularly when only a subset of these differences are inherited by a mixed breed dog. As we continue to expand our breed database, we aim to increase the resolution of our ancestry algorithm such that differentiating between increasingly specific ancestral sources becomes possible.

The Biewer Terrier, also known as Biewer Ă  la Pom Pon, Biewer Yorkie, or Biewer Yorkshire, is a relatively new breed that originated in Germany in 1984. The first documented black, white and tan Biewer puppy was born on on January 20, 1984 and was named Schneeflockchen von Friedheck. The breed was created by Werner and Gertrud Biewer, German breeders who developed it from two Yorkshire Terriers. These dogs had a recessive piebald gene that led to a white, blue, and black coat, distinguishing them from the traditional Yorkie. Initially, the Biewers showed their dogs as Yorkshire Terriers, but the coloration led to a new breed standard and the birth of the Biewer Terrier

Main Info
Origin
Germany
Alternate Names
Biewer Ă  la Pom Pon, Biewer Yorkie, Biewer Yorkshire
Life Expectancy
12-16 years
Average Male Height
7-11 inches
Average Female Height
7-11 inches
Average Male Weight
4-8 pounds
Average Female Weight
4-8 pounds
Coat Length
Long
Coat Type
Silky
Coat Colors
Black Tan & White, Chocolate Tan & White, Blue Tan & White
Coat Pattern
None

Genetic Predispositions and Health

Biewer Terriers can suffer from degenerative myelopathy and progressive rod-cone degeneration. Genetic testing for conditions such as patellar luxation, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease (LCPD), primary lens luxation, hyperuricosuria can assist veterinarians with diagnosis and proactive care, as well as help breeders identify affected and carrier dogs.

Personality and Behavior

Biewer Terriers are known for their affectionate and lively disposition. They are playful, outgoing, and enjoy being the center of attention. Biewers are sociable with other animals and people, making them ideal pets for families. However, their small size makes them more suitable for households with older children who understand how to handle them gently. They can be a bit stubborn, so firm, consistent training is necessary. Despite their small size, Biewers are known to be good watchdogs, always alert and ready to announce strangers.

Fun Facts

"Biewer" is pronounced exactly like the word "beaver", as in the little creatures that build dams in waterways.

According to the AKC, the breed's original name was German Yorkshire Terrier. They were assigned to the AKC's Toy Group in April of 2014.

References

https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/biewer-terrier/

https://vgl.ucdavis.edu/breed/biewer-terrier

https://www.ofa.org/recommended-tests?breed=BYT

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