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Biewer Terrier
Toy breed from Hunsruck, Germany
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Biewer Terrier
The Biewer Terrier is a toy breed originating from the Hunsrück region of Germany. It is recognized by some registries but not all, so its official status varies. This small, elegant dog has a long, silky tri-colored coat and a compact build. Known for being friendly, intelligent, playful, devoted, and affectionate, individual temperaments can vary. Estimated adult weight ranges from 1.8 to 3.6 kg, and height from 18 to 28 cm, for both males and females. Lifespan data is not available in the supplied facts. The breed has a low shedding score (1 out of 5) and high grooming needs (4 out of 5). It is well-suited to apartment living (5 out of 5) and has moderate compatibility with children (3 out of 5) and other dogs (3 out of 5). Energy level is moderate (3 out of 5), and trainability is above average (4 out of 5).
Quick facts
Biewer Terrier at a glance
Sizetoy
Breed groupToy
OriginHunsruck, Germany
LifespanPending
Male weight1.8–3.6 kilogram
Female weight1.8–3.6 kilogram
Male height18–28 centimetre
Female height18–28 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Biewer Terrier was developed in Germany in 1984 by Werner and Gertrud Biewer. It originated from a piebald genetic mutation that appeared in their Yorkshire Terrier breeding program. Through selective breeding, they established this distinct tri-colored toy breed. The breed's origins are in the Hunsrück region of Germany. According to one source, the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 2021, but recognition status varies by registry, so not all kennel clubs may accept it. No other historical events or working purposes are documented in the supplied facts.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
1.8–3.6 kilogramAdult weight18–28 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesLongCoat colorsTri-coloredRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Friendlyintelligentplayfuldevotedaffectionate
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Moderate compared with other breeds
Typically responsive to training
Higher coat-maintenance demand
Lower shedding tendency
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Biewer Terrier-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
Potential challenges
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Growth chart
Biewer Terrier puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight1.8–3.6 kilogramAdult female weight1.8–3.6 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Biewer Terrier?
Estimated adult weight ranges from 1.8 to 3.6 kg, and height from 18 to 28 cm for both sexes. Lifespan data is not provided in the available facts.
What is the temperament of a Biewer Terrier?
The breed is described as friendly, intelligent, playful, devoted, and affectionate. However, individual dogs may vary, and not every dog will display all these traits.
How much exercise does a Biewer Terrier need?
The breed has a moderate energy level (3 out of 5), so daily walks and playtime are recommended, but they do not require intense exercise.
What are the grooming requirements?
Grooming needs are high (4 out of 5) due to the long, silky coat. Regular brushing and occasional baths are necessary to prevent mats. Shedding is low (1 out of 5).
Is the Biewer Terrier good for apartment living?
Yes, the breed scores 5 out of 5 for apartment suitability, indicating they adapt well to smaller living spaces.
How does the Biewer Terrier get along with children and other dogs?
Compatibility with children is moderate (3 out of 5), and with other dogs also moderate (3 out of 5). Supervision and proper introductions are always recommended.
Where does the Biewer Terrier originate from?
The breed originates from the Hunsrück region of Germany, developed by Werner and Gertrud Biewer in 1984 from a piebald mutation in Yorkshire Terriers.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.