About the Biewer Terrier
The Biewer Terrier is a small breed with a big personality. Adult Biewers typically weigh between 4 to 8 pounds and stand about 7 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder. Despite their petite size, these dogs often live long lives, averaging 12 to 15 years, and sometimes even longer with the right care. Their small stature, adorable looks, and playful demeanor make them a favorite among dog lovers.
Caring for Your Biewer Terrier
Biewer Terriers are known for their lively and affectionate nature. They may be small, but they have plenty of energy and enjoy regular playtime and exercise. Whether it’s a daily walk or some spirited indoor play, these little dogs need their daily dose of activity to stay happy and healthy. Although their size makes them great for apartment living, they still need ample opportunities to burn off energy.
One of the most striking features of the Biewer Terrier is their long, silky coat, which comes in three unique tricolor combinations:
- Chocolate, tan, and white
- Black, tan, and white
- Blue, tan, and white
This beautiful coat distinguishes them from their Yorkshire Terrier ancestors, but it also means they require regular grooming.
Health Considerations for Biewer Terriers
While Biewer Terriers are generally healthy, there are a few conditions to watch out for:
Tracheal Collapse This occurs when the cartilage in the windpipe weakens, making breathing difficult. Small dogs like the Biewer Terrier can be affected. Symptoms include a persistent cough that sounds like a goose honk, particularly during exercise, excitement, or in hot, humid conditions. To manage this, use a harness instead of a collar and keep your Biewer at a healthy weight. Severe cases might require surgery.
Bladder Stones Bladder stones can cause pain and urinary issues. Symptoms to look for include frequent urination, discolored urine, straining to urinate, and blood in the urine. Large stones can block urine flow, which is a serious condition. Regular vet checkups and special urinary diets can help manage this issue.
Patellar Luxation This is when the kneecap moves out of place, which can be painful and may lead to arthritis if untreated. Symptoms include limping, a bowlegged stance, and a bunny-hopping gait. Treatment may involve medication, joint supplements, or surgery, depending on the severity.
Liver Shunts Liver shunts are abnormal blood vessels that bypass the liver, affecting its ability to filter toxins. This can cause symptoms like slow growth, disorientation, and seizures. Treatment might involve dietary changes, medication, or surgery.
Hypoglycemia Biewer Terrier puppies are particularly prone to hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. This can cause symptoms such as disorientation, lack of appetite, vomiting, and even coma. To prevent this, feed your puppy high-quality food frequently throughout the day. Keeping a high-calorie nutritional supplement on hand can also help manage sudden drops in blood sugar.
Nutrition and Feeding

Choosing the right food for your Biewer Terrier is crucial. Opt for a small-breed formula that meets the nutritional guidelines set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and is appropriate for your dog’s life stage. Your veterinarian can offer the best advice on what to feed your dog.
Feeding Schedule Puppies should eat three to four times a day, while adults typically eat twice a day. The amount of food will depend on your Biewer’s age, weight, and activity level, so follow the recommendations on the dog food packaging and consult your vet for personalized guidance.
Nutritional Supplements Supplements can be beneficial but are usually unnecessary if your Biewer is on a balanced, AAFCO-approved diet. If recommended by your vet, consider omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, joint supplements, or multivitamins.
Training and Behavior
Personality and Temperament Biewer Terriers are affectionate, social, and enjoy human interaction. Their friendly nature makes them great for families and individuals alike. They usually get along well with children and other pets, especially if they’ve been properly socialized.
While they are energetic, they don’t require excessive exercise. A daily walk and some playtime are usually sufficient to keep them content.
Training Tips Start training your Biewer Terrier puppy as soon as you bring them home. Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, and make the process enjoyable. Patience is key, as Biewers can be a bit independent. Enrolling in socialization and obedience classes can also be helpful.
Fun Activities Biewer Terriers enjoy a variety of activities, including agility, puzzle toys, rallies, obedience training, walking, hiking, and fetch.
Grooming Your Biewer Terrier

The Biewer Terrier’s long, silky coat requires regular grooming. To simplify care, consider a professional grooming service to keep the hair trimmed. Whether you opt for short or long hair, you’ll still need to brush and bathe your Biewer regularly.
Skin Care Bath your Biewer Terrier once a week using dog-friendly shampoo and conditioner to prevent dry, itchy skin.
Coat Care Brush your Biewer’s coat frequently to avoid matting. Use a pin brush or metal comb to keep their fur looking its best.
Eye Care Biewer Terriers can develop tear stains. Clean them with dog-friendly eye wipes or a damp washcloth. Trim the fur around their eyes if it obstructs their vision or causes irritation.
Ear Care Regular ear checks are essential to prevent infections. Look for signs of redness, swelling, or discharge, and clean their ears as directed by your vet.
With the right care, a Biewer Terrier can be a loving, lively, and beautiful companion. Whether you’re considering adding one to your family or already have one, these tips will help you ensure your Biewer stays happy and healthy.