All About the American Eskimo Dog
Strikingly good-looking and smart, the American Eskimo Dog is a treasured member of the Non-Sporting Group! Known for their dazzling coats and quick minds, this breed is a bundle of joy.
Quick History and Function
The American Eskimo Dog, commonly referred to as the Eskie, are thought to have been heavily influenced by German farmers during their early development. German immigrants that came to American soils in the early 1800s brought with them a Nordic breed known as the “German Spitz,” a little white dog that was utilized as an all-around farm dog. They are ancestors to the dogs we know as Eskies today.
At this time in our history, traveling circuses, vaudeville troupes, and Wild West shows were popular in America. Bright, athletic, highly trainable, and beautiful, the German Spitz was a common trick-dog act in the shows. One of the most famous performing German Spitz in the 1930s was Pierre, an Eskie that did a tightrope act with the Barnum & Bailey Circus.
During World War Two, resentment against the Germans led to the German Spitz’s name being changed to the “American Eskimo” Dog. It wasn’t until 1955, however, that the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club.
Today, the Eskie is a loving companion that excels in dog sports such as agility.
What Do They Look Like?
Eskies come in three different size varieties: toy, miniature and standard. Toys stand 9–12 inches tall and weigh 6–10 pounds. Miniatures stand 12–15 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 10–20 pounds. Standard American Eskimo Dogs stand 15–19 inches tall and weigh between 25–35 pounds. All three varieties have a life expectancy of 13–15 years!
Eskies are compactly built, with common Spitz-breed features such as pricked triangular ears and black lips, noses, and rims around the eyes. They are known for appearing as if they’re smiling and for their keen, intelligent expressions. They also have large, plumed tails over their backs.
American Eskimo Dogs have large double-coats. They’re typically pure white, although biscuit cream markings also occur within the breed. Their coats are renowned for their volume and sparkling quality!
What’s the American Eskimo Dog Like?
American Eskimo Dogs are very loyal, smart, clever and versatile. They’re extremely affectionate with their family members and are great with children! They’re friendly and enjoy meeting new people as well.
Eskies are playful, vigilant, and quickly adapt to new things. They’re easy to train and eager to please their people.
This breed is very high energy and needs plenty of mental and physical stimulation. They’re very social dogs and need lots of attention, socialization, and training to prevent behavioral issues.
Is the American Eskimo Dog For You?
Before adding an Eskie to your family, you must consider if this wonderful breed will be the best fit!
Since the American Eskimo Dog comes in three sizes, there are multiple options depending on preferences. Eskies can make decent apartment dogs, however, they still need plenty of exercise and stimulation no matter where they live. As high energy dogs, they do need daily activities such as walks, puzzles, and play time.
They are a very affectionate and friendly breed that loves their family members, children and strangers. They do decently with other dogs, but should be monitored when meeting new friends.
Since Eskies have such large coats, they shed very frequently and need consistent grooming and bathing. The oils in their fur help to prevent dirt and grime from sticking, so a good brush should do the trick.
American Eskimo Dogs are one of the most trainable breeds! They need lots of training and socialization throughout their lives in order to prevent behavioral issues.
Canine Conclusion
The American Eskimo Dog makes a wonderful companion to owners that are willing to provide them with the enrichment they crave. Starting off as a farm dog and transitioning into entertaining circus acts, the Eskie has always proved to be a versatile breed. Great with people, the Eskie is an all-around wonderful dog!
Resources
American kennel club. American Kennel Club. (n.d.). Retrieved March 2, 2022, from https://www.akc.org/
