Biewer Terrier is a recognized new dog breed in the United States

NY – His name is Biewer Terrier and he’s been busy.

The American Kennel Club announced on Monday that the cheerful little Biewer has become the 197th dog breed to recognize it. That makes small dogs eligible to compete in the best dog category at many US events, including the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club, which is held in June this year instead of the usual February date.

With its long coat, lively expression and weighing between 1.8 and 3.6 kilograms (4-8 pounds), the Biewer could look like a Yorkshire Terrier, which is no wonder. The Biewer was originally developed by a German couple, for whom it is named, who breed Yorkies after one of their dogs had a puppy with unusual white markings in 1984.

Americans started importing it in the early 2000s, said breeder Adrianne Dering, who was intrigued after seeing one at a rare breed event.

“They are just very loving and relaxed. He’s not very nervous for a small dog, ”said Dering of Morgantown, West Virginia.

Active, playful, and highly portable, small dogs like company, so they probably aren’t ideal for people who have to leave their pets alone for long working hours, Dering said.

For several years now, Biewer breeders have worked to be recognized by the AKC, the oldest registry of pure breeds in the United States. The designation requires that at least 300 dogs of the breed be distributed in at least 20 states, among others.

Dog breeding is often criticized by animal rights and welfare advocates, who claim that the demand for purebred puppies encourages dog breeders and alienates animal lovers from those in shelters. of adoption.

The AKC claims it encourages responsible breeding of healthy dogs, and states that it retains traits that different breeds have honed for different jobs and can help people make a lasting bond with the dog that is right for them.