SkyRidge Puppies · Breed Education
The Biewer Terrier
Complete Breed Guide
From its 1984 origins in Germany to AKC recognition in 2021 — including the rare chocolate Biro variety.
Origins · 1984 — Present
A Legacy Born from
Recessive Beauty
The Biewer Terrier (pronounced "Beeva") is the result of a single remarkable genetic event — and the dedication of breeders across two continents who recognized something extraordinary when they saw it.
Origin Year
1984
Hunsrück, Germany
Founders
Werner &
Gertrude Biewer
Yorkshire Terrier breeders
First Puppy
Schneeflocken
von Friedheck
Born January 1984
AKC Recognition
2021
197th AKC breed · Toy Group
Weight Range
4–8 lbs
1.8–3.6 kg
Height
7–11 in
18–28 cm at withers
January 1984
The First Biewer Is Born
Werner and Gertrude Biewer's Yorkshire Terrier parents — "Darling von Friedheck" and "Fru Fru von Friedheck," both 1981 Dortmund World Youth Winners — produce a puppy named Schneeflocken von Friedheck. The recessive piebald gene produces a blue, white, and golden tricolor that has never been seen before in their kennel.
1986
Public Debut
The new breed makes its public debut at a large German dog show and is an immediate sensation. German singer Margot Eskens, one of the first buyers, suggests naming them "Biewer Yorkshire Terrier à la Pom Pon" — a reference to the dogs' luxuriously plumed tails.
1989
First Official Recognition
The Allgemeiner Club der Hundefreunde Deutschland (ACH e.V.) becomes the first organization to officially accept the Biewer Yorkshire Terrier as a distinct breed. Werner Biewer signs the first formal breed standard under UCI Reference No. 00/490.
1997
Werner Biewer Passes Away
Werner Biewer passes away and Gertrude disperses most of the kennel's dogs. Breed population in Germany dwindles through the late 1990s as breeders struggle to maintain consistency without the founders.
2003
America Discovers the Biewer
The Biewer arrives in the United States. Dagmar Przystaw opens the first Deutsche Biewer Club (IBYTC) in Germany. In America, the breed begins gaining traction rapidly as fanciers recognize its charm and rarity.
2004
IBC Founded
In September 2004, Dagmar Przystaw opens the International Biewer Club (IBC) in Germany — the club that would become central to the breed's international registry and European showing.
2004–2005
The First Biro Is Born
On December 1st, 2004, the Art of Highclass Kennel in Germany produces the world's first Biro — a chocolate, white, and gold puppy named "Artois of Highclass Relight My Chocolate Fire." The Biro variety is born.
2006
BTCA Founded in America
The Biewer Terrier Club of America (BTCA) is formed by Myrna Torres (Southern California) and Gayle Pruett (Alabama) to organize American breeders and pursue AKC recognition. Mrs. Gertrude Biewer herself joins the club in 2007 to support their mission.
2007
DNA Science Makes History
Mars Veterinary analyzes DNA from 10 Biewer Terriers and concludes they represent a genetically distinct breed — separate from the Yorkshire Terrier. The Biewer becomes the first breed in history established as a purebred through DNA science rather than pedigree records.
November 2007
Gertrude Biewer Updates the Standard
On November 2nd, 2007, Gertrude Biewer officially renames the breed from "Biewer Yorkshire à la Pom Pon" to the "Biewer Yorkshire Terrier" — the name it carries in Germany's IBC to this day.
2012
Gertrude Biewer Passes Away
On October 10th, 2012, Gertrude Biewer passes away after a lengthy illness. Her legacy lives on through the beautiful breed she and Werner created.
2014
AKC Foundation Stock Service
The Biewer Terrier is admitted to the AKC's Foundation Stock Service — the formal first step toward full AKC recognition.
2016
UKC Recognition
The United Kennel Club officially recognizes the Biewer Terrier on January 1, 2016, placing it in the Companion Dog Group.
2021
Full AKC Recognition
The Biewer Terrier becomes the 197th breed fully recognized by the American Kennel Club, placed in the Toy Group. There are 1,424 registered with AKC at the time of recognition — a milestone over 15 years in the making.
May 2024
German Recognition at Last
The VDH (Verband für das Deutsche Hundewesen) in Germany — the breed's home country — officially accepts the Biewer Terrier, closing a decades-long irony that the breed was recognized everywhere but where it was born.
Organizations · Worldwide
Clubs & Registries
The Biewer Terrier is governed by a network of clubs and registries across the globe, each with its own history, standards approach, and registration requirements.
Founded in September 2004 by Dagmar Przystaw, the IBC is the original international registry born in Germany where the breed itself originated. The IBC registers dogs as "Biewer Yorkshire Terriers" — preserving the original German naming convention. The first Biro was registered to the IBC in 2005. The IBC operates under the ACH-L umbrella and remains one of the most historically significant clubs in the breed's development.
🇩🇪 Original International Registry · Est. 2004Founded in 2006 by Myrna Torres and Gayle Pruett, the BTCA is the AKC parent club for the breed in the United States — the most authoritative body for the "Biewer Terrier" name. The BTCA orchestrated the DNA testing through Mars Veterinary that proved the breed's genetic distinctiveness and spent 15+ years pursuing full AKC recognition, achieved in 2021. The BTCA manages the official AKC breed standard, maintains a breeder referral list, and coordinates mandatory health testing. Gertrude Biewer herself joined the BTCA in 2007.
🇺🇸 AKC Parent Club · Est. 2006The RVD/UCI is the original German standard under which Werner Biewer himself registered the breed. UCI Reference Number 00/490 is the foundational breed document, translated and used by clubs like the Biewer Breed Club of America (BBCA) which exclusively follows this original German standard. The BBCA is the only American club that has bred Biewer to Biewer exclusively since its inception and does not condone mixing of any breed into the Biewer line.
🇩🇪 Founding Standard · Original German RegistryHosted by the BTCA, the BTRA provides official DNA-verified pedigree and registration documentation for purebred Biewer Terriers. The BTRA is open to all approved breeders regardless of club affiliation, and its rigorous DNA verification system — including Mars Wisdom Panel breed testing, DNA profiles, and coat color tests — is a prerequisite for AKC registration. The BTRA addresses gene pool diversity by uniting breeders across club affiliations.
🇺🇸 DNA Verified Registry · AKC GatewayThe UKC officially recognized the Biewer Terrier on January 1, 2016 — five years before AKC recognition — placing the breed in the Companion Dog Group. The UKC maintains its own breed standard, which has some differences from the AKC standard, particularly in how it describes the color requirements and topline specifications. UKC recognition was a critical milestone that helped build the breed's credibility ahead of full AKC acceptance.
🌍 Recognized Jan 1, 2016 · Companion Dog GroupThe BBIR is the primary registry dedicated specifically to the Biro (chocolate Biewer) variety. Administered in partnership with the Biro Biewer Golddust Club (BBGC), the BBIR provides official registration for chocolate-colored Biewer Terriers that carry the liver gene. The BBIR works alongside the ACA, NKC, ARBA, CKC, and BBGC to ensure chocolate Biewers have a formal home in the registry world. In June 2016, AKC accepted the liver-colored Biewer as a non-standard color variation (Chocolate Tan & White).
🍫 Biro Specialist Registry · Chocolate Biewer Focus"The Biewer Terrier is the first breed in history established as a purebred through DNA science rather than pedigree records alone — a genuinely unusual distinction in the dog world."
— Furry Critter Network Breed Guide, 2026Official Standards · BTCA · UKC · UCI
The Breed Standard
The BTCA (AKC) and UKC each maintain official Biewer Terrier breed standards, while the original UCI/RVD German standard remains foundational. Below is a comprehensive comparison across standards.
| Characteristic | BTCA / AKC Standard | UKC Standard | UCI / Original German |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 4 to 8 lbs | 4 to 8 lbs | Up to 3.5 kg (~7.7 lbs) |
| Height | 7 to 11 inches at withers | Not strictly specified; square outline | Per outline impression of square |
| Proportion | Body slightly longer than height; square acceptable | Outline gives impression of square; can be slightly longer than tall | Compact and neat; very square impression |
| Coat | Long, silky, straight; parts down center back; no undercoat | Straight, fine to medium, at least ¾ to ground; no undercoat | Long, straight, silky; hangs evenly from skull to tail root; no undercoat |
| Head Coloring | Blue/Black, Gold/Tan, White in symmetry; two-color combos acceptable | Blue/Black, White, Gold/Tan; Gold/Tan and White acceptable | Symmetrical blue-white-gold (or black-white-gold) |
| Body Coloring | Blue/black and white on back; no tan on back, belly, chest, legs or feet | Black or blue and white; must have some black or blue on topline (any amount) | Blue-white or black-white; white belly, chest, legs |
| Tail | Set high; carried arched over body; richly plumed; NOT docked | Well feathered; carried over body; NOT docked | Carried up; NOT docked (Germany banned docking May 1998) |
| Eyes | Medium, dark, not prominent; black eye rims | Medium, dark; oval; black eye rims | Dark; not too prominent; dark rims |
| Ears | Small, V-shaped, erect; set high; covered with hair | Small, V-shaped, upright; set moderately wide and to the back of head | V-shaped, erect, covered with hair |
| Nose | Fully black; liver pigment is a disqualification | Fully black in dogs over 6 months; liver pigment disqualifies | Black; light nostrils are a fault |
| Topknot | Required; head falls / rollovers are an eliminating fault | Preferred; no strict eliminating fault described | Hair tied or bowed on top of head |
| Disqualifications | Blue eyes; liver pigmentation of rims/nose; any color outside standard | Albinism; unilateral cryptorchid; liver eye rim pigment; liver nose | Light eyes; light nose; wavy or curly coat; non-erect ears |
✦ Serious Faults (BTCA/AKC)
- Roach or rounded back
- Hackneyed gait in adults
- Incomplete pigment on eye rims, nose, or lips
- Ears not standing erect
- Weight over 8 lbs
- Tan hair anywhere on back, belly, chest, legs, or feet
✦ Disqualifications (BTCA/AKC)
- Blue eye(s) — any shade
- Brown or liver pigmentation of eye rims, nose, lips, or pads
- Any color other than those listed in the standard
- Head falls or rollovers common to other breeds (eliminating fault)
- Cryptorchidism (UKC standard)
- Albinism (UKC standard)
Coat Colors · Genetics
The Signature Colors
The Biewer Terrier's remarkable coat is the result of the piebald gene — also called "parti" — interacting with the blue/steel modifier that Yorkies are known for. Color does not define a separate breed; a chocolate or gold Biewer is still a Biewer.
🧬 Color Genetics — The Piebald Gene Explained
- The Biewer Terrier is genetically a Black & Tan Piebald — the piebald (parti) gene is responsible for the white patterning on the body.
- The blue/steel color develops over time — puppies are born black and the coat transitions to steel blue over 18 months as the black recedes.
- The liver (Biro) gene affects only eumelanin (black pigment). It is genetically impossible for a liver dog to have a single black hair — all black becomes chocolate.
- Both parents must carry the recessive liver gene for a Biro puppy to be produced — standard and chocolate puppies can appear in the same litter.
- Recessive Red (Golddust) is another color variant that exists on the outer fringes of the breed population — like the Biro, it is a disqualification in conformation but carries no associated health defects.
- "Color does not define a separate breed. A chocolate or gold Biewer is still just a Biewer." — Rocky Mountain Biewer Terriers
Rare Variety · Est. 2004
The Biro — Chocolate Biewer
The Biro is one of the rarest and most visually striking color varieties in the terrier world — a rich chocolate, white, and gold tricolor that turns heads at every show.
| Characteristic | Standard Biewer | Biro (Chocolate Biewer) |
|---|---|---|
| Body Color | Blue/Black and White | Chocolate (light to dark) and White — no black coloring |
| Head Color | Blue/Black, White, Gold in symmetry | Chocolate, White, Gold in symmetry |
| Nose | Fully black (liver nose = disqualification) | Absolute chocolate/brown — defining feature |
| Eye Rims | Black pigment | Chocolate/liver pigment — unique to the Biro |
| Eye Color | Dark brown | Hazel / amber-green — distinctive and beautiful |
| Toenails | White or black | White or chocolate brown |
| Foot Pads | Dark/black | Chocolate brown |
| Genetics | Black & Tan Piebald (no liver gene) | Both parents must carry recessive liver (bb) gene |
| Conformation | AKC standard color — eligible for show | Non-standard color — ineligible for AKC conformation; eligible as pet/companion |
| Registries | AKC, UKC, BTCA, BTRA | AKC (non-standard), BBIR, BBGC, NKC, ARBA, CKC, IBC |
| Health Differences | Standard health considerations | No additional health defects associated with the liver gene |
| Chest / Belly / Legs | Pure white | Pure white |
🍫 Biro Physical Traits
- Rich chocolate-on-white body coloring (light to dark chocolate acceptable)
- Tricolored head: chocolate, white, and gold in symmetry
- Absolutely chocolate brown nose — no black anywhere on the dog
- Hazel or amber-green eyes — a striking hallmark of the variety
- Chocolate brown foot pads and toenails
- Chest, belly, and legs: pure white, as with standard Biewers
- Same silky, straight, parted coat as the standard Biewer — no undercoat
- Slightly curved tail carried over the body, well furnished with hair
🏛️ Biro Registry History
- First Biro: "Artois of Highclass Relight My Chocolate Fire" — Dec 1, 2004
- Named after founders: BIrgit Rosner + ROberto Krah = BIRO
- First registered to the IBC in Germany in 2005
- Then registered with the German Breeders Union
- Arrived in USA: 2005 — first registered to BBIR
- Followed by NKC, ARBA, CKC, and BBGC registrations
- AKC accepted Chocolate Tan & White as non-standard color: June 2016
- Only original kennel remaining in Germany: Art of Highclass
Veterinary · Wellness
Health Considerations
Biewer and Biro Terriers are generally hearty for their size, but as small-breed descendants of the Yorkshire Terrier, they share some inherited vulnerabilities. Responsible breeders test before breeding and educate families about what to watch for.
Hypoglycemia
Low blood sugar is the #1 concern in puppies, particularly those under 3 lbs. Listless behavior and shakiness are the warning signs. Feeding 3–4 small meals per day is essential — never skip meals in young puppies.
Manage DailyPatellar Luxation
The kneecap slipping out of position — one of the most common conditions in toy breeds. Yorkies and Biewers are genetically predisposed. Early supplementation with glucosamine/chondroitin is recommended.
Test & SupplementTracheal Collapse
The windpipe weakens and flattens, causing a chronic cough — especially during exercise or excitement. Use harnesses instead of neck collars and avoid situations that cause excessive excitement in affected dogs.
Watch & PreventBladder Stones
Biewer Terriers have a higher incidence of urinary stones than average. Feeding a quality diet with adequate hydration and monitoring for straining or blood in urine can help catch issues early.
Monitor & HydratePortosystemic Shunt
A congenital liver condition where blood bypasses the liver, allowing toxins to accumulate. Signs include poor growth, disorientation, and seizures. Reputable breeders screen for this condition before breeding.
Genetic ScreeningDental Disease
Yorkshire-type breeds have a small jaw with many teeth — making them highly prone to dental disease. Daily tooth brushing beginning at 8 weeks is the single most impactful preventive measure. Dental chews help.
Daily Prevention✦ BTCA Recommended Health Testing for Breeders
- OFA Patella evaluation — patellar luxation screening before breeding
- CAER (ACVO) eye examination — hereditary eye disease clearance
- OFA Cardiac evaluation — heart health certification
- DNA genetic testing through BTRA (includes Mars Wisdom Panel breed verification)
- Bile acid testing / liver function screening for portosystemic shunt
- Coat color DNA testing (BTRA requirement for AKC registration)
Daily Life · Personality
Care & Temperament
The Biewer and Biro Terrier maintain a charming, whimsical, childlike attitude well into adulthood. Carrying around a toy is not surprising. They have the heart of a terrier and the soul of a lap dog.
🐾 Personality
- Lively, bold, intelligent, and self-confident
- Childlike, playful personality — whimsical even in old age
- Obedient and loyal when properly led; can be stubborn without clear boundaries
- Barks to alert — excellent watchdog despite tiny stature
- Adaptable: thrives in city apartments or on 27 acres of farm
- Competes in Agility, Rally, Dock Diving, Obedience, and Conformation
- Strong bonds with family; some independence maintained
- Social with other pets; can be brave (sometimes too brave) around larger dogs
✂️ Grooming Requirements
- Show coat: daily or every-other-day brushing and combing — non-negotiable
- Pet/puppy cut: weekly brushing suffices
- Bathe every 2–3 weeks; avoid over-bathing (strips natural coat oils)
- Daily combing prevents matting that requires costly de-matting or trimming
- Hair over the eyes must be tied with a latex band or bow
- Remove loose hairs from ear passages regularly
- The Biewer standard includes a strict grooming clause — one of the few breeds to do so
- Professional grooming recommended every 6–8 weeks for show dogs
🍽️ Feeding Guidelines
- Puppies: 3–4 small meals per day until 6 months old
- Adults: 2 meals per day; free-feeding is not recommended
- Never skip meals — hypoglycemia risk is real and serious
- Breed-specific kibble (e.g., Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier) is ideal
- Omega-3 supplementation supports the silky coat
- Probiotic support is especially helpful after rehoming or vaccination stress
- Fresh water available at all times — helps prevent bladder stones
🏃 Exercise & Training
- Indoor play meets most daily exercise needs
- A daily walk is still important for mental and physical balance
- Loves to explore outside — adaptable to beach, snow, or farm
- Highly trainable but can be stubborn without consistent leadership
- Housebreaking can be challenging — crate training is recommended
- Puzzle feeders and interactive toys provide essential mental enrichment
- Socialization from 8 weeks onward is critical for a confident adult
- Lifespan: 12–15 years