Biewer terrier is recognized new breed of dog in the United States

New York – Her name is Biewer terrier and she has been busy.

The American Kennel Club announced Monday that the cheerful little Biewer has become the 197th recognized dog breed. This allows small dogs to be eligible to compete in the best dog category at many U.S. events, including the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club, which this year will be held in June instead of its usual date in February.

With its long coat, lively expression and weight of between 1.8 and 3.6 kilograms (4-8 pounds), the Biewer could look like a Yorkshire terrier, and no wonder. The Biewer was originally developed by a German couple, from whom it receives its name, which is dedicated to raising Yorkie, after one of his dogs had a puppy with unusual white marks in 1984.

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

“They’re just very affectionate and relaxed. Being a small dog, he’s not a very nervous one,” said Dering, of Morgantown, West Virginia.

Active, playful, and extremely portable, small dogs like company, so they’re probably not ideal for people who have to leave their pets alone for long workdays, Dering said.

For several years, Biewer breeders have worked to be recognized by the AKC, the oldest record of purebred canines in the United States. Designation requires that there be at least 300 dogs of the breed distributed in at least 20 states, among other requirements.

Raising dogs often attracts criticism from animal rights and welfare advocates, who claim that the demand for purebred puppies encourages dog breeders and distances pet lovers from those in foster homes. .

The AKC states that it motivates responsible parenting for healthy dogs, and argues that it preserves attributes that have been perfected in different breeds for various jobs and can help people make a lasting commitment to the dog that is right for them.