Biewer Terrier: Temperament, Size, Lifespan & Care

Biewer Terrier temperament and personality

The AKC describes the Biewer as a very dedicated, loyal family member that is friendly with strangers, and says many are happy-go-lucky dogs with a lighthearted, childlike attitude. It rates the breed five out of five for affection with family and with other dogs, and four out of five for playfulness.

Despite its small size, the AKC calls the Biewer a hearty, athletic dog and an excellent hunter of vermin. Watchdog instinct is low, two out of five, so most greet visitors rather than guard against them.

How big do Biewer Terriers get?

The AKC lists the Biewer Terrier at 7 to 11 inches tall and 4 to 8 pounds, with no separate figures by sex. The long, silky coat is usually tricolor, and the breed is a recent AKC addition, recognized in 2021.

The AKC notes that the Biewer moved through the recognition process unusually fast, advancing out of the Miscellaneous Class after about six months. At this size, a Biewer is easily injured by falls or being stepped on, so careful handling matters.

Biewer Terrier lifespan and common health issues

The AKC lists a Biewer Terrier lifespan of about 16 years and says the majority are healthy dogs. It notes that sensitive digestive systems are common, so an occasional soft or discolored stool can happen; persistent diarrhea or vomiting, however, needs a vet.

Recommended tests for breeding dogs are an eye exam by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist, a patella evaluation, and DNA tests for primary lens luxation and progressive retinal atrophy. VCA explains that a slipping kneecap often shows as a skip in the step or a few strides on three legs. Ask breeders for parent results, and keep up daily dental care.

Exercise needs

The AKC calls the Biewer a rather mellow, easygoing dog whose playfulness provides natural exercise, along with play with its family. Indoor games such as hide-and-seek, chasing a rolled ball or learning tricks all count. Adjust the routine for age and health: puppies, seniors and overweight dogs need gentler, shorter sessions, and your vet can help set the right level.

Biewers also enjoy walks and are agile little dogs. Use a lightweight harness rather than a collar, keep outings gentle in extreme heat or cold, and supervise around bigger dogs at parks.

Biewer Terrier grooming and shedding

The AKC says the long coat needs daily brushing; silkier coats mat little, while softer coats may tangle more. Many owners keep a Biewer in a shorter trim, which the AKC says needs minimal grooming. Good-quality coat products help keep the hair soft and silky.

Shedding is one out of five on the AKC scale. Low shedding suits some allergy sufferers, but no dog breed is allergen-free. Tie up or trim the topknot so hair stays out of the eyes, trim nails regularly and brush the teeth often.

Training a Biewer Terrier

The AKC says Biewers are extremely intelligent and easy to train, though potty training may take a little longer. Short, upbeat, reward-based sessions with tiny treats work best, and many love learning tricks. Short daily sessions of five to ten minutes, ended while the dog is still keen, usually work better than one long session.

Keep a strict house-training schedule with frequent trips outside or to a designated spot, and praise every success. Gentle socialization with people, places and other pets from an early age builds a confident adult.

Are Biewer Terriers good with kids and other pets?

The AKC rates the Biewer three out of five with young children. Its fun-loving nature suits people of all ages, but a toddler can easily drop or squeeze a 5-pound dog, so homes with older, gentle children are safest. Teach children to sit down to hold or play with it.

With other dogs the AKC rating is five out of five, and the AKC says Biewers make friends with animals of all kinds. Choose gentle playmates and supervise play with larger dogs.

What a Biewer Terrier needs at home

Useful kit includes a pin brush and fine comb, gentle shampoo and conditioner, hair ties or clips for the topknot, nail clippers, a dog toothbrush, a lightweight harness and leash, a soft bed, a sweater for cold days and a carrier. Pet steps help small legs reach the sofa.

Baby gates keep a tiny dog away from stairs. Book a vet visit soon after bringing your Biewer home and ask about the kneecap check, dental care and how to handle a sensitive stomach.

This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.