| Height | 7-11 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 4-8 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 16+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Intelligent / Devoted / Amusing [1] |
| AKC group | Toy Group [1] |
| Origin | Germany [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 74 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
The Biewer Terrier is a rather mellow, easy-going dog. Their playful attitudes provide them with a natural means of self-exercising, along with the time spent playing with their human families. Indoor activities could include hide-and-seek, chasing a ball rolled along the floor, or teaching them new tricks. [1]
Grooming
The Biewer Terrier has a long coat that requires daily brushing. There is minimal matting with the silkier coat, but the soft coats may get some mats. If you choose to keep your Biewer in a short coat, minimal grooming is needed. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Like all breeds, there may be some health issues. Some dogs may be faced with these health challenges in their lives, but the majority of Biewer Terriers are healthy dogs. Sensitive GI systems are common in the Biewer Terrier, so they may have an occasional soft or discolored stool. Although not life-threatening, if your dog has persistent problems with diarrhea or discolored stools, you should take him/her to the vet immediately. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Eye Examination by a board Certified ACVO Ophthalmologist, Patellar Luxation, Primary Lens Luxation (PLL) - DNA Test, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, PRCD (PRA-prcd, PRCD) - DNA Test. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a small dog (median $508) | $273 – $1,110 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, small dog | $352 – $1,258 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, small dog | $435 – $1,484 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Biewer Terrier in 2021. [1]
- It ranked No. 74 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list. [2]
- The AKC lists Germany as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 4 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Eye Examination by a board Certified ACVO Ophthalmologist, Patellar Luxation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 1/5)
- ✅ Multi-dog homes (AKC good-with-other-dogs 5/5)
Common questions
How long do Biewer Terriers live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 16 years.
How big does a Biewer Terrier get?
AKC breed information lists height 7-11 inches and weight 4-8 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Biewer Terrier?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For small dogs like the Biewer Terrier, a typical vet bill runs $273 – $1,110 (median $508). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.