The Biewer Terrier is a breed of exceptional elegance, but its very appearance demands precise knowledge of the standard and dedicated care. At my kennel, Little Shining Angels, I follow the strict German type, as it best preserves the authentic refinement envisioned by the Biewer couple.
The German standard versus the American one
In the world of showing Biewer Terriers there are two main standards: the original German and the American AKC standard. In Europe, under the KZS and FCI, judges rely primarily on the strict German guidelines.
The German standard is extremely precise about colour distribution. On the head, perfect symmetry of three colours is desired: black or blue, gold and white. On the body — the back, neck and flanks — only a combination of blue-black and white is allowed; not a single gold or brown hair may appear there. The belly, paws and chest must be pure snow-white, and the white must continue seamlessly up the neck to form a collar. The tail is full, undocked (which in Slovenia and most of Europe is also required by law), carried high and richly coated with a white tip.
The American AKC standard allows somewhat more freedom in the arrangement of markings and a slightly longer body format. The German standard, however, demands a distinctly square, compact build and a strict boundary between colour fields. That is why, in my breeding, I consistently follow the original German type.
Caring for a regal coat
A long, silky coat requires regular and thoughtful care. I use quality professional dog cosmetics. For the white areas of the Biewer I use mild cleansing shampoos that enhance the whiteness without drying the coat, and for the dark areas moisturising shampoos that deepen the pigment and give the coat a natural shine. Regular care also keeps the skin healthy, which matters for families with allergies too.
The wrapping technique
To protect the long coat from breaking, I use the wrapping technique. After bathing I apply nourishing cosmetic oils, part the coat into sections, comb it and carefully wrap it in special paper secured with soft bands. This lets my dogs play and run freely while the coat stays undamaged and show-ready. For all the grooming, my dogs are first of all what they are: happy dogs living a full dog's life.
Three shining colour lines
My work at the kennel rests on three strict breeding lines: Biewer Terriers, black Terriers and chocolate Terriers. For all of them, health comes first. All breeding dogs undergo extensive health and genetic tests, and I plan matings exclusively with genetically healthy, stable lines. Since the gene pool of these colour lines in Europe is relatively narrow, I cooperate with top kennels abroad and import quality sires to maintain the vitality and diversity of future litters.
Literature and sources
Biewer, W. (1989). Original Biewer Yorkshire à la Pom Pon standard, ACH e.V. (original German breeding guidelines).
American Kennel Club (AKC): Biewer Terrier breed standard (2021), for comparison of colour and morphological tolerances.
Schmutz, S. M., & Berryere, T. G. (2007). Genes affecting coat colour and pattern in domestic dogs. Animal Genetics, 38(6), 539–549.
KZS and FCI show guidelines, and the legal ban on tail docking in Slovenia and the EU.
This text is based on current professional knowledge and on our kennel's experience. It does not replace consultation with a veterinarian or cynologist.
