Biewer vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison

Biewer vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed ComparisonBiewer is originated from Germany but Australian Silky Terrier is originated from Australia. Both Biewer and Australian Silky Terrier are having almost same height. Both Biewer and Australian Silky Terrier are having almost same weight. Both Biewer and Australian Silky Terrier has same life span. Both Biewer and Australian Silky Terrier has same litter size. Biewer requires High maintenance. But Australian Silky Terrier requires Moderate maintenance

History

biewer - historyThe Biewer is, or was, a piebald Yorkie caused by a recessive gene in a breeding of two Yorkshire Terriers. On Jan 20, 1984 a piebald Yorkshire puppy was born in Hunsruck, Germany to Gertrud and Werner Biewer. The puppy was considered beautiful and the Biewer’s fell in love with it and began a process od selective breeding in an effort to breed piebald Yorkies. Based on a friend’s suggestion, they named this group of puppies, “Biewer Yorkshire Terrier a la Pom Pon”. By 1989 the Allgemeiner Club der Hundefreunde Deurschland (ACH) officially recognized the Biewer Yorkie as a separate breed. Today they are recognized world wide as two separate breeds.

Today there have been genetic studies done that have declared the Biewer Terrier to be a separate and distinct breed from the Yorkshire Terrier, not simply tricolored Yorkies. The BTCA (Biewer Terrier Club of America) changed the name and standard to an original one for the Biewer Terrier. Mrs. Biewer has accepted and signed this revised standard and it is the only one she has accepted. This new standard allows the Biewer Terrier to have a black coat and an undocked tail. In 2014 with the new standard the American Kennel Club Foundation Stock Service (ACK/FSS) accepted the Biewer Terrier. Some breeders still want the breed called the Biewer Yorkshire a la Pom Pon, but Mrs. Biewer has objected to this, insisting the dog is a terrier. The Biewer Breed Club of America (BBCA) insists on the breeding of Biewers only to other Biewers. This is opposed by others who are importing Biewers and breeding them with Yorkies. The result is not recognized as a purebred dog. BBCA breeders do not engage in this type of cross breeding or condone them. The BBCA breeds only dogs that meet the standard set by the BTCA.

The first two Biewers were imported to the States in 2003 by Donna Hall. They made history in 2003, when they were accepted by the IABCA (International All Breed Canine Association) and entered their first dog show. Today they are shown in rare breed dog shows around the world. Today there are two standards in operation for the Biewer as the American Biewer and the North American Kennel Club continue to follow the German standard while the BBCA follow the revised standard approved by Mrs. Biewer.

australian silky terrier - historyMany toy breeds have been bred for centuries and were kept as lap dogs and companion dogs. Known at first as ‘The Sydney Silk’ the Australian Silky Terrier originated in Australia, but before the 2nd World War, the Australian SilkyTerrier was all but unknown outside Australia.

The toy breed came about by crossing the Yorkshire Terrier and the Australian Terrier, but further crossings contributed to the silky coat and the small size we are familiar with today. Despite this little dog being classified in the Toy Group, this spunky dog has the ability to hunt and kill rodents.

Victorian and Tasmanian breeders claimed to be originators of the breed, so the official name, Australian Silky Terrier, was adopted in 1956. Since recognition by the American Kennel Club in 1955, the breed has enjoyed a solid build up of fans.

Description

biewer puppy - descriptionThis long-haired terrier is a neat and compact toy dog. Their hair should be as long as their body is high and hang straight from the bottom of his skull to the end of his tail which is carried upward. He is a well proportioned and powerful little dog. He has no undercoat, but his overcoat is very much like human hair and should be combed. The head is a signature of the Biewer, covered with symmetrical gold, white and blue/black hair. They have flat, small heads and a black nose with an average muzzle. They have intelligent, dark, medium sized eyes and small ears shaped as a V and standing erect. All four legs are straight, and the hips are well formed. They have round feet and an undocked tail.

Small but Spunky

australian silky terrier puppy - descriptionThis is a small breed with Loads of Spunk. The Silky terrier is somewhat longer than tall and height is around 23cm, with weight being about 4kg. He has an athletic build and although the bone structure is refined, the small dog has amazing strength and durability with a keen, alert face. Small but sturdily built, the dark, almond-shaped eyes don’t miss a thing as do the small, erect v-shaped ears.

Full of fun and packed with character, the Silky Terrier isn’t your regular lap dog as he is bold, active, feisty and playful- always ready for action. He can be aggressive toward strange pets but becomes amicable with other pets in the home. He is sharp and clever, and can be trained to be an absolute pleasure in the home and a playmate for children trained to be kind to animals.

They are loving and devoted to their human family and can be excellent watchdogs even though they can’t offer much protection.

The Coat – the most Distinctive Feature

Of course, the Silky Terrier gets his name from the sleek, silky coat that if allowed to grow, flows down from their backs to the floor. It is the dogs most distinctive feature. They come in several solid colors and mixes of colors too such as blue/tan, grey/blue and cream.

He’s Adaptable

The Silky is an adaptable dog and even though he is energetic and will needs daily physical and mental exercise, he can be a country or an apartment dog, but will require plenty of exercise and getting out and about.

Characteristics

biewer dog - characteristicsThe Biewer Terrier loves to be loved and he returns it in volumes. This is a dedicated, fun loving and charming little dog that you can carry around. They are loyal and friendly, athletic and alert. They are barkers when they need to be, but they are not “yappy dogs”. They love toys so make sure they have plenty. They will carry them wherever they go.

Caution with Small Children

australian silky terrier dog - characteristicsSmall in stature but with a strong personality, the Australian Silky Terrier is a keen, intelligent, active, energetic and spunky breed. He is affectionate and loyal towards his human family, and although good with older children and other pets, he may not get on too well with small children and their erratic movements.

Training Required for his Wilful Nature

Don’t leave him alone for too long as he becomes anxious and destructive. He is an active dog too and while he will adapt to apartment living, he will need exercise and games to keep him active, fit, stimulated and healthy. Your Silky is an intelligent dog but he is stubborn too and proper socialization and training will be important for Silky Terriers, as then he becomes quite sociable.

A firm but gentle hand will be needed to train this wilful little dog, but when you show him who’s boss, he becomes your devoted and loyal friend.

Health Problems

biewer puppies - health problemsThe Biewer Terrier is not a cross breed or hybrid and so does have some of the very serious health issues of the Yorkshire Terrier including the bane of small dogs with liver shunts. Liver shunts are fatal if they are not treated. The breed does have sensitive stomach issues as well. They face other small dog issues like floating patella’s, ear and skin infections. Other than this the Biewer Terrier is a very healthy breed.

Some Ailments to Look out For

australian silky terrier puppies - health problemsThe Australian Silky Terrier is generally healthy and he has a lifespan of 11 – 14 years. However he may suffer from some problems such as Legg-Perthes disease. This means degeneration of the head on the femur bone of the dog's hind leg, resulting is osteoarthritis. This ailment is commonly seen in miniature-, small and toy breeds and can result in lameness and pain.

Silky Terriers are also prone to certain eye disorders, including PRA or Progressive Retinal Atrophy as well as cataracts. PRA can lead to total blindness.

Vaccinating your Pet – what’s required?

Getting the right puppy shots and vaccinations is also part of good health care for your Silky and you can speak to your vet about what injections are due at 6 – 8 weeks of age and what booster vaccinations may be necessary.

Caring The Pet

Feeding

biewer dogs - caringAs previously mentioned the Biewer Terrier has a very sensitive stomach and intestinal system. He should be fed low protein dry dog food. Watch for signs of food allergies such as scratching or chewing on his feet. Feed 2-3 times a day but the Biewer Terrier is one of the few dogs that you can safely free feed unless you notice substantial gaining of weight.

Health issues

Health issues are few as mentioned previously. However, make sure your Briewer’s ears are free of debris and wax, make sure their teeth are brushed and they show no signs of allergies. Along with liver shunts, sensitive intestinal and stomach issues and floating patellas, these are the other minor issues that might occur. Watch for diarrhea and off colored stools.

Exercise and games

The Biewer Terrier is an active dog that needs regular exercise and walks. He is a speed demon as his ancestor the Yorkie is and needs an outlet for running as well as daily walks. They love to run, and they love to play. They do great in agility but love adventures. They are smart and love to learn tricks. Since they love hunting vermin they would also excel at Barn Hunt.

Regular Brushing of the Silky Hair

australian silky terrier dogs - caringThe long, straight coat of the Silky will need a fair amount of brushing each day. This dog is considered a hypoallergenic breed, and although he doesn’t shed a lot, the length of the hair will require regular brushing to get rid of loose hairs but also ensure there is no tangling of the hair. If the hair of the dog is kept long, he may require a bath every now and then to keep his hair silky and clean and to get rid of dirt build-up.

Nutrition and Diet

A healthy, nutritional diet is important for keeping your canine friend healthy and free from disease and unhealthy skin. To stay health your pet will require correct amounts of vitamins and minerals.

Dog food companies make different types of dog food such as dry, semi-moist, and moist and these are available for dogs of different ages, activity levels and stage of life. Speak to your vet about selecting a dog food that is right for your Australian Silky Terrier and always ensure a bowl of fresh water is available to him.

Basic Information

Group:
Terrier dog
Toy dog
Origin:
Germany
Australia
Height Male:
20 - 22 cm
7 - 9 inches
23 - 26 cm
9 - 11 inches
Height Female:
18 - 20 cm
7 - 8 inches
20 - 25 cm
7 - 10 inches
Weight Male:
3 - 4 kg
6 - 9 pounds
4 - 6 kg
8 - 14 pounds
Weight Female:
2 - 3 kg
4 - 7 pounds
4 - 6 kg
8 - 14 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
2 - 5
3 - 5
Size:
Toy dog
Small dog
Other Names:
Biewer • Biewer à la Pom Pon • Biewer Yorkie • Biewer Yorkshire • Biewer Yorkie Terrier • Biewer Yorkshire Terrier • Biro Yorkshire Terrier
Silky Terrier, Sydney Silky
Colors Available:
blue,black, tan, white piebald
blue/tan, grey/blue and cream.
Coat:
straight, shiny and silky
long, straight and silky
Shedding:
Minimal
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Energetic, Friendly, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Playful, Social
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet
Grooming:
High maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
Yes
Yes
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Pomeranian vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  2. Maltese vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  3. Pug vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  4. Maltipoo vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Cockapoo vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  7. Cavapoo vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  8. Cavachon vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Papillon vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  10. Japanese Chin vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  11. Miniature English Bulldog vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  12. Bolognese vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  13. Italian Greyhound vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  14. Jug vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  15. Miniature Pinscher vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  16. Dorgi vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  17. Belgian Griffon vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  18. Carlin Pinscher vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  19. Dorkie vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  20. German Spitz (Klein) vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Doxiepoo vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  22. Bospin vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  23. Bantam Bulldog vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  24. Damchi vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  25. Lowchen vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Harlequin Pinscher vs Biewer - Breed Comparison
  27. Chihuahua vs Biewer - Breed Comparison
  28. Morkie vs Biewer - Breed Comparison
  29. Havanese vs Biewer - Breed Comparison
  30. Chorkie vs Biewer - Breed Comparison
  31. Pekingese vs Biewer - Breed Comparison
  32. Chinese Crested Dog vs Biewer - Breed Comparison
  33. Biewer vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Biewer vs Bichonpoo - Breed Comparison
  35. Biewer vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  36. Biewer vs Bichon Bolognese - Breed Comparison
  37. Chiweenie vs Biewer - Breed Comparison
  38. Chug vs Biewer - Breed Comparison
  39. Brussels Griffon vs Biewer - Breed Comparison
  40. Chipoo vs Biewer - Breed Comparison
  41. Chiapom vs Biewer - Breed Comparison
  42. English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan) vs Biewer - Breed Comparison
  43. Long Haired Chihuahua vs Biewer - Breed Comparison
  44. Russian Toy Terrier vs Biewer - Breed Comparison
  45. Franzuskaya Bolonka vs Biewer - Breed Comparison
  46. Phalene vs Biewer - Breed Comparison
  47. Bugg vs Biewer - Breed Comparison
  48. Cockachon vs Biewer - Breed Comparison
  49. Shih Tzu vs Biewer - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds