Biewer Terrier vs Yorkie: What are the Differences?

Written by Emmanuel Kingsley
Updated: October 15, 2023
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The Biewer Terrier and the Yorkie (commonly known as the Yorkshire Terrier) are both from the acclaimed Terrier group as you can tell. They both have fluffy bodies and cute faces that may make it rather hard to tell which is which. In this article, we will be making an explicit comparison between the Biewer Terrier and the Yorkie. Let’s get into it. 

Comparing the Biewer Terrier and the Yorkie

The major differences between the Biewer Terrier and the Yorkie are seen in their size and appearance.
Biewer TerrierYorkie
SizeHeight: 7-11 inches
Weight: 4-8 pounds 
Height: 8-9 inches
Weight: 4-7 pounds
Appearance Born black, white, and tan and the colors can get uneven when there is a lack of grooming Almost black at birth with a mix of brown and tan hairs. Morph into blue as they grow older with golden hair. 
DietOmnivorous; foods with protein, fat, and carbohydrates Omnivorous; foods with high amounts of protein and fatty acids amongst other nutrients 
Behavior and Temperament Friendly, playful, good with children, and tolerant of other animalsTrainable, energetic, can become unfriendly and aggressive 
Common Health Issues Distichiae, Legg-Calve-Perthes syndrome, trick knee, and hypoglycemia amongst others. Hypoglycemia, Legg-Perthes disease, retina dysplasia, skin allergies, etc. 

The Key Differences Between the Biewer Terrier and the Yorkie

Even though they have more similarities, the major differences between the Biewer Terrier and the Yorkie are seen in their size and appearance. We will be making a more detailed comparison below while bringing out peculiarities and differences. 

Biewer Terrier vs Yorkie: Size

Biewer Terrier

Biewer Terriers can be anywhere from 7 to 11 inches tall.

©Alexandra Morrison Photo/Shutterstock.com

The Biewer Terrier and the Yorkie actually are similar in size, however, there are some differences in height. While Biewer Terriers can be anywhere from 7 to 11 inches tall, Yorkies are 8-9 inches tall. Also, in terms of weight, Biewer Terriers weigh between 4-8 pounds and Yorkies weigh between 4-7 pounds.

Biewer Terrier Vs Yorkies: Appearance

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkies are born with almost black color and a mix of brown and tan hairs.

©iStock.com/Kurt Pas

The Biewer Terrier is a mix of black, white, and tan, and the colors can even get mixed up when pet owners do not groom them properly. Yorkies, on the other hand, are born with almost black color and a mix of brown and tan hairs, and as they grow, they morph into blue and their hair becomes golden. 

So, while they have tons of physical similarities, there are enough physical differences to tell them apart. 

Biewer Terrier Vs Yorkie: Diet

Biewer Terriers and Yorkies are both omnivorous and they both require foods with enough protein and fat. However, their foods are not exactly the same as there are different formulas for different breeds as prepared by experts. 

For Biewer Terriers, owners would need to feed them with foods containing fats, protein, and carbohydrates. However, due to the sensitivity of their gastrointestinal tracts, protein has to be curtailed to avoid excess. They also cannot be fed gluten and soy because those two have been noted as sources of irritation for their stomach linings. Among the best foods for the Biewer Terrier is the Purina Pro Plan Small Breed & Toy Breed Formula Dry Dog Food. It notably contains a much-needed balance of all the right nutrients needed to keep Biewers healthy. 

Yorkies also require foods with protein, fatty acids as well as other nutrients that make for healthy living. The best foods for Yorkies include Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula, and Royal Canine Health Nutrition, among others. These foods are endowed with just the right balance of healthy nutrients. Also, some of the foods have categories for puppies and adults, so owners get to choose depending on the growth stage of their Yorkies. 

Biewer Terrier Vs Yorkie: Behavior And Temperament

Biewer Terrier in the grass

Biewer Terriers are gentle, tolerant of other animals, good with children, and hardly even bark.

©Radek Havlicek/Shutterstock.com

Biewer Terriers and Yorkies have similar behaviors in that they are both friendly, playful, and energetic. However, Yorkies are much bolder and would often show their ferocious sides, which explains why they are also used as hunters. Biewer Terriers, on the other hand, are gentle, tolerant of other animals, good with children, and hardly even bark.

On the whole, both dogs are cool, super trainable, and are ideal pets, although the Biewer Terrier is the gentler, less stubborn one.

Biewer Terrier Vs Yorkie: Common Health Issues

Like most other dog breeds, Biewer Terriers and Yorkies are prone to a number of diseases and some of these diseases and health issues are common to both animals. Biewer Terriers are prone to diseases like distichiasis, Legg-Calve-Perthes syndrome (bone death), trick knee (professionally known as luxating patella), hypoglycemia(low blood sugar), and other blood/vein problems. 

Yorkies are also prone to hypoglycemia, Legg-Perthes disease, kneecap dislocation, and skin allergies. 

Both breeds face similar health problems and these issues can be tackled by regular visits to trusted vet doctors for diagnosis, evaluations, and treatments. 

Biewer Terrier Vs Yorkie: Lifespan

A Yorkshire terrier with a red bow

Yorkies have an average lifespan of 13-16 years.

©Seregraff/Shutterstock.com

Biwer Terriers and Yorkies have a similar lifespan average of 12-15 years and may even live longer if they are well catered to and taken care of. Some sources however claim Yorkies have a slightly better lifespan average of 13-16 years, which is still pretty close.

Biewer Terrier Vs Yorkie: Cost

If you are going to be getting either one of the Biewer Terrier or Yorkie or both, you should prepare to spend thousands of dollars. Yorkie puppies cost between $600 and $2500 and the average price is $1200. Experts estimate a total cost of about $18,615 throughout their lifespan. 

Biewer Terriers, on the other hand, are the more expensive option and they cost between $3000-$5000 with an average of $2000 to be spent yearly after purchase. A whole lotta money, right?

Is a Terrier The Right Kind of Dog For You?

Cute pet Yorkshire terrier sitting outside on green grass next to an open book and glasses. Dog reading reading in park at sunny day. Education and training. Copy-space left

Nearly all terriers are smart dogs who love to play and learn new things.

©Tanya Kalian/Shutterstock.com

Terriers are an excellent choice for those who want a small, active, and intelligent companion. These dogs have boundless energy and are known for their lively temperament. They can make great family pets as they bond quickly with people and love to play games, go on walks, or just lounge around the house.

If you’re looking for a feisty but loving pup that will bring lots of joy into your life, then consider getting a terrier dog! While these little dogs may take a bit of extra work to train and manage, their loyalty and affection make them worth the effort. Here are some things you should consider before getting a terrier dog:

  • Exercise Needs: Terriers need lots of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. This means taking your pup out for long walks or runs as well as providing plenty of toys for them to play with.
  • Grooming Requirements: Many terrier breeds require regular grooming in order to maintain their coats. This includes regular brushing, bathing, and trimming of their fur.
  • Training: Terriers are smart dogs that can learn quickly but also have a stubborn streak. With consistency and positive reinforcement, you can train your terrier to obey commands and behave properly in different situations.
  • Health Issues: Some terrier breeds are prone to certain health problems such as eye issues or skin allergies which require special care from a veterinarian.

If you are looking for a loyal and loving companion, then a terrier might be the right choice for you. With plenty of exercise, regular grooming, and proper training, your terrier will become an integral part of your family in no time!

The photo featured at the top of this post is © tsik/Shutterstock.com

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