AKC Breeder of Merit Debarah Billings hails from Bristol, Tennessee. Her breeding program and Windsong Biewer Terriers began in 2009. Her goal was and continues to be breeding for improvement as well as promoting the Biewer Terrier.
AKC: How did you get started in breeding dogs?
Debarah: After retiring in 2008, I started my search for a small breed dog. I found this small, elegant, delightful and tri-colored dog called a Biewer and immediately had my name on a wait list for my first puppy. The wait seemed agonizing but totally worth it.
AKC: What is the most important thing to know about Biewer Terriers?
Debarah: The Biewer Terrier originated in Germany and is a fun-loving toy breed. They make excellent companions for all types of owners, whether a single owner or family dog. Since the soft silky coat grows continuously, there are grooming needs in order to keep it free of tangles. Most pet owners keep the coat in an adorable puppy cut.
AKC: How has AKC Marketplace helped you find puppy buyers?
Debarah: I get many requests from my listings of litters on AKC Marketplace. I have the opportunity to give information about my breeding program on my Marketplace profile.
AKC: What is your favorite question to ask of potential puppy buyers?
Debarah: I ask interested puppy buyers if they have other dogs and an established relationship with a veterinarian. Even though the Biewer Terrier is a toy breed, they can challenge a larger breed for a toy or food.
AKC: What are the main qualities you look for in potential owners?
Debarah: I look for puppy buyers who understand the importance of a relationship with their breeder.
AKC: What is the best advice you would give to novice breeders?
Debarah: If someone wants to be a new breeder for the Biewer Terrier, my advice is to get a mentor with experience in this breed.
AKC: Do your dogs participate in AKC sports?
Debarah: I have promoted our breed with AKC conformation shows since we were allowed in the Foundation Stock Service (FSS). My current Biewer Terrier in the ring is GCHB Windsong’s Somethin’ To Talk About. Rumor was the very first American bred Champion and Grand Champion. She placed Best of Opposite Sex at Westminster this year in Tarrytown, NY, and is currently the number one bitch per stats.
We are excited for the future of our breed as we are nearing the end of our first year of being a fully recognized AKC breed.
AKC: What do you like best about breeding dogs?
Debarah: I love to see what each new breeding will offer and watching the puppies mature, whether it will be a hopeful for the future conformation ring or the answer to a dream for a waiting family!