| The American Eskimo Dog has an overall square appearance, with a wedge-shaped head with erect triangular ears, and black nose, lips, and eye rims. He has a thick, double coat, and his chest, neck, and forepart of his shoulders are typically covered with a lion-like mane. His tail is richly plumed and carried over his back. |
| Height: |
Toy: 9-13 inches; Miniature: 12-16 inches; Standard: 16-21 inches |
| Weight: |
Toy: 6-10 pounds; Miniature: 10-20 pounds; Standard: 18-35 pounds |
| Color(s): |
Mostly pure white; sometimes white with biscuit or cream, or cream |
| Coat: |
Thick, profuse white standoff double-coat |
| Description: |
The American Eskimo Dog is derived almost completely from the various German Spitz breeds, mainly the German Spitz crossed with Japanese Spitz and Keeshonden in America. The Eskie is a breed of companion dog and semi-sled dog originating in the USA. In addition to serving as a companion, it has been used as a watchdog, sled dog, and also achieved a high degree of popularity in the 1930s and 1940s US as a circus performer even as early as 1917 at the Cooper Brother's Railroad Circus. One of many American Eskimo Dogs to walk a tightrope was an American Eskimo by the name of Stout's Pal Pierre in the Barnum " Bailey Circus. "PR" Stout's Pal Pierre was from a long line of American Eskimos used in Barnum and Bailey's Circus acts. Pierre's grandfather was the first known dog in the world to walk a tight rope. The breed became popular as circuses would sell the puppies during their travels across the nation. Although Eskies prefer cold weather, they can live in hotter climates as well. |
| Temperament: |
American Eskimo Dogs were bred to be companion dogs, and thrive on being a part of a human family. They are generally highly intelligent, trainable, and moderately independent. At home, they make excellent watchdogs, barking to announce the presence of strangers. The Eskie can be protective of its home and family, but in general they will not threaten to attack or bite a person unless provoked. As with all dogs, temperament is partially inherited and partially trained. Some dogs are prone to excessive barking and separation anxiety. It is important to research the dog's pedigree as their temperament may vary due to inheritance. This breed is not a fast-maturing one, and Eskies can behave more like puppies than like adults for up to two years, when they finally start to mature and grow their adult coats. |
| Training: |
American Eskimo Dogs are also a very intelligent dog and need to be stimulated. When their intelligence is not stimulated or they are ignored, they can develop behavior issues. Owners can avoid this problem by socializing their Eskie through obedience training or participating in dog sports, such as dog agility, flyball, and dancing. |
| Care & Grooming: |
Eskies have a long, dense coat and need regular grooming, which consists of brushing them once a week, or more often, if necessary. Many Eskie owners use an undercoat rake, a tool available at most pet stores, for grooming. Eskies should not be shaved, as the long fur helps to maintain the temperature of their skin. Eskies typically need to be bathed only every two or three months, unless they soil their coat with large amounts of dirt or substances with strong odors. Eskies are a very clean breed and constantly groom themselves. |
| Shedding: |
American Eskimo Dogs shed heavily, but it can be maintained with regular brushing. Eskies “blow” their coats twice a year. Once is in May or June, depending on the location in which they live, which sheds their winter undercoat. Once is in November or December, which sheds their summer coat. Males may only shed once a year. |
| Health: |
The Eskie is a fairly healthy breed. Genetic health problems which occur in the breed include PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), luxating patella, and hip dysplasia, however none of these are terribly common. The breed can have a tendency towards allergies and tear-staining. The propensity towards allergies and tear-staining are inherited. Do not purchase a puppy from parents which have extreme tear staining or allergies, and you will likely avoid these traits. |
| Lifespan: |
10-15+ years |
| Litter Size: |
Toy: 1-3; Miniature: 2-4; Standard: 4-7 |
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