Overview
The Biewer Terrier is a small toy dog from Germany, known for its flowing silky coat in a striking tricolour pattern. It is kept mainly as a companion and show dog.
It is affectionate and lively, bonds closely with its owners and is usually friendly with strangers.
History
The breed began in 1984 when Werner and Gertrude Biewer in Germany had two tricolour puppies born to Yorkshire Terriers carrying a recessive piebald gene. They developed the line from there, and the name 'a la Pom Pon' was added after a singer bought two of the early puppies.
The breed reached the United States in 2002, a parent club was formed in 2006, and DNA testing showed it was separate from the Yorkshire Terrier. The AKC recognised it in 2021 and the German VDH in 2024.
Appearance
A small, compact dog that resembles a Yorkshire Terrier, with a fine, straight, silky coat that often falls long. The tail is not traditionally docked and is carried over the back.
The pattern is tricolour, white with blue and black, or white with black and gold or tan. Dogs measure about 18 to 28 cm and weigh roughly 1.8 to 3.6 kg.
Temperament
Biewers are affectionate, playful and sociable. They form strong bonds with their people and generally greet strangers in a friendly way.
They are energetic for their size and enjoy games and interaction. They thrive on company and may be unhappy if left alone for long.
Care and exercise
Short walks and indoor play are enough for most Biewers. The long coat needs daily brushing to prevent tangles, or it may be kept in a shorter trim, and regular bathing helps keep it clean.
Gentle handling is advised because of their tiny size, and teeth need regular care.
Health
Reported concerns include tracheal collapse, bladder stones, patellar luxation, congenital portosystemic shunt and hypoglycaemia, particularly in small puppies.
