Biewer Terrier

The Biewer (pronounced Bee-vair) Yorkshire Terrier a la Pom Pom, is generally thought of as a toy dog originating in Germany due to an unnatural genetic recessive trait. It is not recognized by any formal or major kennel club.
History
Mr. Werner and Mrs. Gertrud Biewer raised, bred and showed Yorkshire Terriers for twenty years. On January 20, 1984 one of their dogs gave birth to a blue, white, and gold puppy they later named Schneeflocken von Friedheck. This was the first recorded tri-colored Yorkshire Terrier. This started what is now known as the “Biewer Terrier.” While even after twenty-five years of the Biewer’s existence, it is still not recognized by any major kennel club, but that does not stop many adamant people in creating a club centered around them.
There is only one club that has the support and membership of Mrs. Gertrud Biewer and although she no longer breeds, she maintains active involvement with the BTCA board members in their efforts to establish the Biewer Terrier as a breed of its own. Mrs. Biewer considers the BTCA, Inc. to be the authority and protector of the Biewer breed.
BBCA = Biewer Breed Club of America
BTCA = Biewer Terrier Club of America
CBC = Canadian Biewer Club
BBCC = Biewer Breed Club Canada
ABC = American Biewer Club
APRI = American Pet Registry Inc.
And others.
As you can see, their popularity booms in America more than anywhere else in the world. They were first imported to the United States in early 2003 and became an instant hit for their adorable Yorkie appearance but exotic coloring. It is not a distinct, just as a Chocolate Labrador and a Yellow Labrador are not two different breeds but the same. The often times ARE found in litters with Yorkshire Terriers (see below).
Appearance
General appearance is that of an elegant longhaired tri colored toy terrier with the hair parting down the middle of the back and hanging straight and evenly on both sides of the dog. The back is level, with height at shoulders being equal to height of the rump. The body length can be slightly longer than the overall height. The tail is carried high over the body in a “C” shape and covered with a long flowing plume. The ideal weight is 4 to 8 lbs.
Health
The overall health of the Biewer Terrier is generally very good but some tend to have a sensitive stomach. With a careful diet and conservative treats, it should not be a problem. As with any toy breed you may experience eye irrigations, tracheal collapse, premature dental disease and patellar luxation.
To prevent plague build up, it is suggested that the dogs be fed dry food (mixed with wet if need be) to keep their teeth clean and strong. It is also recommended they visit a Veterinarian to have a thorough check up and cleaning of their teeth to prevent Periodontal Disease.
Coat Care
As a companion most owners prefer to have this breed in a "perpetual puppy cut". A bath at home about every two to three weeks will maintain a healthy coat, if it is combed out with a wire comb once a week. Since Biewers are no show dogs, they do not need the floor length coat but their Biewers coat will reach the floor and beyond that. A clipping every few weeks may be required to keep the dog from tripping. If you do want a "show coat", some breeders wrap the coat to produce a very impressive elegant floor length coat.
Mortality
Just as the Yorkshire Terrier, Biewer Terriers are expected to live anywhere from 12 to 15 years. Biewer Terriers, also, can have a poor tolerance for anesthesia, and it is more likely to be killed or injured by falls, other dogs, and owner clumsiness. When choosing a smaller dog, research and accident prevention is the key!
Traits
These dogs are, typically, loyal and affectionate just like Yorkshire terriers and carry the same whimsical and childish air around their owners. When around other dogs they tend to have an air of importance and usually uninterested in other dogs when human companions are present. They can be excitable or tense when around unfamiliar dogs, so easing in a new member of the family like you would with any other dog is highly suggested. Like any small dog, Biewer Terriers can fall into the Small Dog Syndrome unless cared for properly. Also note this dog is not frequently recommended for small or young children, as young children tend to be a little too rough for these small dogs.
Litters
Yorkshire Terrier dogs and Biewer Terrier dogs can often be found in the same litter. Their litter size ranges from two to five puppies

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