Question 1

What is a Biewer Terrier?

Accepted Answer

The Biewer Terrier is a small, elegant companion breed with a distinctive tri-colour coat of white, black and tan or gold. Originally developed in Germany, the breed is known for its affectionate nature, playful temperament and luxurious flowing coat. Biewer Terriers are recognised as a distinct breed and are prized as loyal, people-focused family companions.

Question 2

What is the temperament of a Biewer Terrier?

Accepted Answer

Biewer Terriers are typically affectionate, cheerful and people-oriented. They are alert and curious without being yappy, and they form close bonds with their families. With good socialisation from an early age, they are confident, friendly and adaptable to a range of household lifestyles.

Question 3

How big do Biewer Terriers grow?

Accepted Answer

Biewer Terriers are a small breed. Adults typically stand around 18–28 cm (7–11 inches) at the shoulder. Their compact size makes them well suited to smaller homes and apartments, provided their exercise and companionship needs are met.

Question 4

How much does an adult Biewer Terrier weigh?

Accepted Answer

A healthy adult Biewer Terrier usually weighs between 2 and 4 kg (roughly 4–9 pounds). Weight can vary slightly between individuals, and maintaining a lean, healthy weight is important for their long-term joint and organ health.

Question 5

How long is the lifespan of a Biewer Terrier?

Accepted Answer

Biewer Terriers are generally a long-lived companion breed, often reaching 12 to 15 years or more when well cared for. Good nutrition, routine veterinary care, dental health and a loving home all contribute to a long, comfortable life.

Question 6

Do Biewer Terriers shed?

Accepted Answer

Biewer Terriers have a single coat of fine, silky hair rather than a dense undercoat, which means they shed far less than many breeds. They are not completely non-shedding, but loose hair is minimal — regular grooming keeps the coat in good condition and your home largely hair-free.

Question 7

Are Biewer Terriers hypoallergenic?

Accepted Answer

No dog is truly hypoallergenic, but the Biewer Terrier's low-shedding coat makes it a more suitable choice for some allergy-sensitive households. If anyone in your home has allergies, we recommend spending time with the breed before committing, as individual reactions vary.

Question 8

Are Biewer Terriers good with children?

Accepted Answer

With proper socialisation and gentle, respectful handling, Biewer Terriers generally do well with children. Because they are small, interactions with young children should always be supervised to keep both the child and the dog safe and comfortable.

Question 9

Do Biewer Terriers get along with other pets?

Accepted Answer

Biewer Terriers are typically sociable and can live happily alongside other dogs and pets when introduced properly. Early socialisation helps. As with any breed, introductions should be gradual and supervised, particularly with much larger dogs or small animals.

Question 10

How much exercise does a Biewer Terrier need?

Accepted Answer

Biewer Terriers are moderately active. A daily walk, some indoor play and a little enrichment are usually enough to keep them healthy and content. They are not demanding in their exercise needs but do enjoy being involved in whatever the family is doing.

Question 11

Are Biewer Terriers easy to train?

Accepted Answer

Biewer Terriers are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them very trainable with positive, consistent methods. They respond best to gentle, reward-based training and can become stubborn if pushed harshly. Early, short training sessions work well.

Question 12

Do Biewer Terriers bark a lot?

Accepted Answer

Biewer Terriers are alert and will let you know when something is happening, but they are not generally a 'yappy' breed. With good training and socialisation, barking is usually reasonable and manageable.

Question 13

How do I enquire about an IRMADU puppy?

Accepted Answer

Begin by completing the enquiry form on our Contact page. Tell us about your family, your lifestyle and what you are looking for in a companion. From there, we start a conversation to understand whether a Biewer Terrier is the right fit and, in time, whether a particular puppy is the right match for you.

Question 14

Are puppies raised in a home environment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every IRMADU puppy is born and raised inside our home. They are handled daily, exposed to the normal sounds and rhythms of family life, and introduced to a variety of people, surfaces and gentle experiences as they grow.

Question 15

How are puppies socialised?

Accepted Answer

Socialisation is woven through our Puppy Journey from the earliest days. We follow a structured programme of gentle handling, novel surfaces, soft sounds, household experiences and supervised play. The aim is to raise confident, adaptable puppies that are prepared for family life.

Question 16

When can puppies go to their new homes?

Accepted Answer

Puppies are ready to join their new families from around 8 to 10 weeks of age, depending on each puppy's development. We never rush this decision — readiness is judged individually for each puppy.

Question 17

What does a puppy go home with?

Accepted Answer

An IRMADU puppy goes home with a vet health check, first vaccinations, deworming record, microchip, a starter pack of their current food, a puppy information folder, and our ongoing support. We also provide a written agreement that outlines the responsibilities of both parties.

Question 18

Are upcoming litters planned?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Planned pairings are listed on our Upcoming Litters page. We plan litters carefully and only open a waitlist once a pregnancy is confirmed, so that we never over-promise availability.

Question 19

How much does an IRMADU puppy cost?

Accepted Answer

The price of an IRMADU puppy reflects the care that goes into every litter — health screening, veterinary care, premium nutrition, socialisation and lifelong support. We share the current price openly during the enquiry conversation, as it can vary between litters. We do not compete on price; we focus on the quality of the experience and the lifelong match.

Question 20

Can I choose which puppy I get?

Accepted Answer

You can share your preferences, but we do not allow families to simply 'pick' a puppy. Matching is a two-way process — we consider the temperament and needs of each puppy and the lifestyle of each family, and we recommend a match we believe will be right for both. This protects the puppy and the family.

Question 21

Can I reserve a puppy before it is born?

Accepted Answer

We do not take reservations for unborn puppies. We open a waitlist only when a pregnancy is confirmed, and only place specific puppies with families once we have spent time with the litter and understand each puppy's developing temperament.

Question 22

How do I join the waitlist for a litter?

Accepted Answer

Once a pregnancy is confirmed, we invite approved enquiry families to join the waitlist for that litter. The first step is always completing the enquiry form and having a conversation with us, so that we understand whether the planned pairing is a good fit for your family.

Question 23

What happens if I am not matched with a puppy?

Accepted Answer

If we do not have a puppy that we believe is the right match for you, we are honest about it. You may choose to be considered for a future litter, or we can recommend other responsible breeders. Our priority is a successful, lifelong placement — never a quick sale.

Question 24

Can I see the puppy's parents?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The dam (mother) is always part of our programme and you will usually meet her during a visit. If the sire (father) lives with us, you will meet him too. If he is an outside stud, we can share his details and pedigree information with you.

Question 25

Are puppies microchipped before going home?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every IRMADU puppy is microchipped before going home, and the microchip is registered to you as the new owner. This is an important part of responsible pet ownership and helps ensure your puppy can be identified for life.

Question 26

What food should I feed my new puppy?

Accepted Answer

Your puppy goes home with a starter pack of the food they have been eating, so you can transition gradually if you wish to change. We recommend a complete, age-appropriate, premium-quality diet. We are happy to discuss nutrition in detail during the enquiry process.

Question 27

How big will my puppy be as an adult?

Accepted Answer

Adult Biewer Terriers typically weigh 2–4 kg. We can give you a sense of the expected adult size of a particular puppy based on the parents and the puppy's development, though final adult size can never be guaranteed exactly.

Question 28

Can I meet my puppy before it goes home?

Accepted Answer

Yes. With approved enquiry families, we arrange a visit to meet your puppy at the appropriate stage. This is an important part of the matching process and helps both you and the puppy feel comfortable before going home.

Question 29

What health screening is performed?

Accepted Answer

Our breeding dogs follow a routine health programme with our veterinarian, including appropriate screening relevant to the breed, vaccinations and parasite prevention. Each puppy is examined by our vet before going home. We are transparent about what we do, and what we do not claim.

Question 30

Are Biewer Terriers a healthy breed?

Accepted Answer

The Biewer Terrier is generally a sound companion breed. Like every breed, it is not free of considerations. Good breeding practices, routine veterinary care, a balanced diet and responsible ownership all contribute to a long, healthy life. We are honest about the breed and never claim it is free of health considerations.

Question 31

What genetic conditions can affect Biewer Terriers?

Accepted Answer

Small breeds like the Biewer Terrier can be affected by conditions such as patellar luxation, dental issues, and certain eye conditions. Responsible breeding reduces the likelihood of these being passed on. We discuss any relevant screening openly during the enquiry process and encourage you to maintain a relationship with a trusted veterinarian.

Question 32

How often should I take my Biewer Terrier to the vet?

Accepted Answer

We recommend an annual wellness examination for adult dogs, and more frequent visits for puppies during their first year (for vaccinations and development checks). Your veterinarian is the best guide to a schedule suited to your individual dog.

Question 33

What vaccinations does my Biewer Terrier need?

Accepted Answer

Puppies begin their vaccination course young and adult dogs receive boosters according to a vet-led plan. Your IRMADU puppy will have started their course before going home, and your veterinarian will advise on the appropriate ongoing schedule for your region and lifestyle.

Question 34

How do I care for my Biewer Terrier's teeth?

Accepted Answer

Small breeds are particularly prone to dental disease. Daily brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste, appropriate chews, and professional cleaning as recommended by your vet all help prevent discomfort and serious illness later in life. Dental care is one of the most impactful things you can do for a small dog.

Question 35

What should I feed my Biewer Terrier?

Accepted Answer

A complete, balanced, age-appropriate premium diet is recommended. Avoid excessive treats and never feed cooked bones, chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic or xylitol-containing foods, all of which can be harmful. Your veterinarian can recommend a diet suited to your dog's age and condition.

Question 36

How do I prevent parasites in my Biewer Terrier?

Accepted Answer

Routine prevention for fleas, ticks and internal parasites — appropriate to your climate and lifestyle — is part of responsible care. Discuss an appropriate year-round schedule with your veterinarian, as the right product and frequency depends on where you live and your dog's individual needs.

Question 37

When should I spay or neuter my Biewer Terrier?

Accepted Answer

The timing of spaying or neutering should be discussed with your veterinarian, as it depends on your dog's sex, size, development and your circumstances. We are happy to share our perspective, but your vet is best placed to advise on the right timing for your individual dog.

Question 38

How do I know if my Biewer Terrier is overweight?

Accepted Answer

You should be able to feel your dog's ribs without pressing hard, and they should have a visible waist when viewed from above. Small dogs gain weight quickly, and obesity places avoidable strain on joints and organs. Your veterinarian can assess body condition and advise on a healthy weight for your dog.

Question 39

What are common signs of illness I should watch for?

Accepted Answer

Watch for changes in appetite, energy, drinking, weight, breathing, mobility, coat condition or behaviour. Vomiting, diarrhoea, coughing, scratching or anything unusual should be discussed with your veterinarian promptly. You know your dog best — if something seems wrong, it is always worth checking.

Question 40

How does the puppy matching process work?

Accepted Answer

Matching is about fit, not first-come-first-served. We get to know each family through conversation, consider the temperament and needs of each puppy, and recommend a match that we believe will be right for both the puppy and the family. Our goal is a lifelong, successful placement.

Question 41

Do you provide support after a puppy goes home?

Accepted Answer

Yes. IRMADU families are part of our community for the life of the dog. We are available for questions about settling in, grooming, training, health and development, and we love hearing how our puppies are doing.

Question 42

How long does the enquiry process take?

Accepted Answer

There is no fixed timeline. We aim to respond to enquiries personally within a few days, and the conversation develops from there. The time to being matched with a puppy depends on availability, the right fit, and the timing of planned litters. We never rush the process.

Question 43

What information do you need from me when I enquire?

Accepted Answer

We would love to hear about your household, daily routine, children or other pets, your home environment, your experience with dogs, and what you are hoping for in a Biewer Terrier companion. The more you share, the more thoughtfully we can respond.

Question 44

Can I change my mind after enquiring?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Enquiring is the start of a conversation, not a commitment. If at any point you feel a Biewer Terrier is not the right fit for your family, we would rather you be honest — the goal is the right match for both the puppy and you.

Question 45

What happens if the match is not right?

Accepted Answer

If at any stage we or you feel that the match is not right, we will talk about it openly. It is far better to wait for the right puppy than to place one in a home that is not the right fit. We may recommend a future litter or, where appropriate, another responsible breeder.

Question 46

Do you have a waiting list?

Accepted Answer

We open a waitlist for a specific litter once a pregnancy is confirmed. Approved enquiry families are invited to join at that stage. We do not keep an open-ended waiting list for unspecified future puppies.

Question 47

How do you decide which family gets which puppy?

Accepted Answer

We consider the temperament, energy level and needs of each individual puppy, alongside the lifestyle, experience and preferences of each family. The goal is a match we believe will be successful for the life of the dog. This is a judgement we make carefully and personally.

Question 48

Can I request a specific sex or colour?

Accepted Answer

You can absolutely share your preferences, and we take them into account. However, we match primarily on temperament and fit, so we may recommend a puppy that does not match your initial preference if we believe it is the right match for your family.

Question 49

Can I adopt two puppies at the same time?

Accepted Answer

In some circumstances, placing two puppies together can work well, but it is not always the right choice for every family or every puppy. We discuss this openly during the enquiry process and advise based on your circumstances and the puppies available.

Question 50

Is there a written agreement when a puppy goes home?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every IRMADU puppy goes home with a written agreement that outlines the responsibilities of both the breeder and the new family. This includes expectations around care, health, and what should happen if circumstances ever change and the dog can no longer be kept.

Question 51

What happens if I can no longer keep my IRMADU dog?

Accepted Answer

Our agreement asks that you contact us first if you can no longer keep your dog. We will always help — whether through support, rehoming assistance, or, where necessary, taking the dog back. An IRMADU dog is our responsibility for life, not just until it goes home.

Question 52

Can prospective families visit?

Accepted Answer

We arrange visits with approved enquiry families at the right stage of the process. Visits are scheduled by appointment so that we can protect the wellbeing of our dogs and the experience of every family we welcome.

Question 53

Do you accept enquiries from other provinces?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We welcome enquiries from families across South Africa. Many of our puppies are placed with families outside of Gauteng, and we discuss collection and travel arrangements openly during the enquiry process.

Question 54

How are collection or transport arrangements handled?

Accepted Answer

Where possible, families collect their puppy in person from us in Gauteng. For families further afield, we can discuss responsible travel options — including accompaniment and approved pet transport — and we are clear about what we will and will not do to keep puppies safe.

Question 55

Where is IRMADU located?

Accepted Answer

IRMADU is based in Centurion, Gauteng, South Africa. Our address is 110 Trichardt Rd, Lyttelton Manor, Centurion, 0157. Visits are by appointment only, Monday to Saturday, 9:00–17:00.

Question 56

Can I visit before enquiring?

Accepted Answer

Visits are reserved for approved enquiry families, at the right stage of the process. We encourage you to start with the enquiry form so we can understand your situation first — this protects our dogs and keeps visits meaningful for every family.

Question 57

How long is a typical visit?

Accepted Answer

A typical visit lasts around 30–60 minutes. It is unhurried, personal and focused on you getting to know our dogs and us getting to know you. We never rush a visit — it is an important part of the matching process.

Question 58

Can I bring my family to a visit?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We welcome the whole family, and it is important that everyone who will share the home meets the puppy. For very young children, please let us know in advance so we can plan a calm, safe visit for everyone.

Question 59

Can I bring my current dog to a visit?

Accepted Answer

For the safety and comfort of our dogs and puppies, we generally ask that you do not bring your current dog to the first visit. We can discuss a separate, controlled introduction if and when it is appropriate.

Question 60

Do you deliver puppies to my door?

Accepted Answer

We do not operate a delivery service. We strongly prefer that families collect their puppy in person from us, where possible. For families who live far away, we discuss responsible transport options openly during the enquiry process.

Question 61

Can a puppy be flown to another province?

Accepted Answer

We can discuss air travel for puppies where it is the most responsible option, using approved pet transport services. The puppy's safety and wellbeing always come first, and we will be honest about whether we believe air travel is appropriate for a particular puppy at a particular age.

Question 62

How far do families typically travel to collect a puppy?

Accepted Answer

Families have travelled to us from across Gauteng, other provinces, and sometimes from outside South Africa. We are always honest about the travel involved and help you plan the collection so that it is safe and low-stress for the puppy.

Question 63

What should I bring when collecting my puppy?

Accepted Answer

Bring a secure travel crate or carrier, a small blanket, and the contact details of your veterinarian. We provide a starter pack of food, the puppy's health record and an information folder. We will talk you through everything on collection day.

Question 64

Do you assist with transport to other provinces?

Accepted Answer

Yes, where appropriate we can help coordinate approved pet transport to other provinces — including accompaniment or trusted transport partners. We never ship puppies unaccompanied as cargo. All transport arrangements are discussed and agreed in advance during the enquiry process.

Questions, answered

About the Biewer Terrier

Our puppies

Health & wellbeing

The matching process

Visiting & transport

Still have questions?

The first step is a conversation.