American Eskimo Dogs

Quick Stats for American Eskimo Dogs

• Height (at the shoulders):
  • Toy: 9 – 12 inches (23 – 30 cm)
  • Miniature: above 12 up to 15 inches (above 30 up to 38 cm)
  • Standard: above 15 up to 19 inches (above 38 up to 48 cm)
• Weight:
  • Toy: 6 – 10 pounds (2.4 – 4.5 kg)
  • Miniature: 10 – 20 pounds (4.5 – 9 kg)
  • Standard: 18 – 35 pounds (8 – 16 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 14 years
• AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group – recognized in 1994
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment; very active indoors; small yard is sufficient

Personality of American Eskimo Dogs

These bundles of white fur make excellent family dogs. They are friendly, intelligent and alert. They are also very protective of their families and homes, which make them excellent watchdogs.

American Eskimo Dogs are great with children. Although cautious of strangers, they make friends almost immediately.

They learn quickly and are always eager to please. However, these dogs need a firm and confident owner to teach them what is expected of them. If not, problems such as obsessive barking can occur.

History of American Eskimo Dogs

The American Eskimo Dog (also known as the Eskie), is a small to medium Nordic-type dog breed, that is a member of the Spitz family. They are descendants of the European Spitz breeds, including the German Spitz. Other influences include the white Keeshond dog breed, the white Pomeranian, and the white Italian Spitz.

You might be surprised to know that although they are known as they American Eskimo Dog, they actually have nothing to do with the Eskimo people.

It is believed that sometime in the early 1900s, these white spitz-like dogs were brought to the United States by European workers. In 1913, they began to register these dogs with the UKC (United Kennel Club). By the 1920s, they were being called the American Spitz and could be seen performing tricks and other acts in several circuses.

Eventually, the American Spitz became known as the American Eskimo Dog and was officially recognized by the AKC in 1994.

American Eskimo Dog Care and Grooming

As you might guess from its name, the American Eskimo dog does not mind cold temperatures. They do not fare too well in warm climates and should be considered house dogs, spending most of their time indoors with their families.

These dogs need plenty of daily exercise. A long walk would work, although they would definitely enjoy and benefit from running free in a safely enclosed area.

This breed can gain weight easily if they are overfed and not given enough exercise.

These dogs require a thorough brushing of its double coat at least twice weekly using a good bristle brush. When it is shedding, try and brush daily.

The breed is an average shedder.

Health Problems of American Eskimo Dogs

The American Eskimo dog has an average life expectancy of between twelve to fourteen years.

There are no major health concerns for this breed. Minor health concerns includes PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy); CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia), and patellar luxation. Diabetes can sometimes occur, but is rare.

Veterinarians recommend that these dogs be tested specifically for eye, hip, and knee problems.