Don’t be fooled by the American Eskimo dogs pretty face and fluffy fur. This breed is so much more than looks and cuteness. You’re about to discover the traits of this loyal canine companion that’s clever and charming.
These are excellent family pets due to their beauty and playful spirit. It’s an exceptional dog breed that requires attention, care, and affection.
Characteristics
| Origin | USA, Germany |
| Other names | German Spitz, American Eskie |
| Breed group | Spitz, a non-sporting dog, companionship |
| American Eskimo dog size | Available in three sizes: standard, miniature, toy |
| Height | 9-19 inches – based on the breed variation |
| Weight | 6-35 pounds – based on the breed variation |
| Colors | White, biscuit, cream |
| Life expectancy | 13-15 years |
| Coat | Double-coated, thick fur |
| Shedding | Constant shedding |
| Barking tendency | Vocal, loud barking, sharp noises |
| Temperament | Intelligent, alert, friendly |
| American Eskimo dog price | $1,250 to $2,500 |
Facts About the Breed
They might be called Eskimo dogs, but these furry friends don’t come from the Arctic. The breed was created from the German Spitz dogs. You’ll adore American Eskimo canines due to their high level of intelligence, fluffy look, and striking facial expressions.
I’m talking about a dog with a sharp mind that can quickly learn new commands and excel in obedience. They are great at agility sports and canine training contests. I love how white, soft, and puffy their fur is despite the frequent grooming it requires. Eskies have double-coat hair that sheds all year round.
Therefore, you must brush your dog’s thick coat to prevent tangles or mats. The following sections provide more tips on how to raise an American Eskimo pup.
Physical Traits
With their pure white, snowy features, Eskies look like dogs that came out of a winter wonderland. When looked at in direct sunlight, these furry friends seem to have a sparkly double coat. I also fell in love with their dark eyes, shaped like almonds.
Their black nose creates the perfect contrast against their white fur. Overall, these pets have an adorable, warm look that melts your soul from the first moment you see them. Another characteristic I really like is these dogs’ lion-like mane, which frames their heads and goes all the way around their necks.
You can also recognize this dog breed by how it keeps that bushy tail curled up over its back. American Eskies evoke beauty and charm through every part of their being, from their cute face and pointy ears to their bushy tail and elegant postures. They’re delightful and so very cuddly.
American Eskimo Size – Weight and Height
An American Eskimo puppy can weigh between 2 and 12 pounds when it’s around 8 weeks old, based on the breed’s size category. Young pups have a height of approximately 6 to 15 inches, the tallest being the standard size and the smallest being the toy version.
As adults, American Eskimo dogs have the following weights and heights:
- Toy Eskies weigh between 6 and 10 pounds and have a height of about 9 to 12 inches;
- The Miniature version is 12-15 inches tall and has a body weight of 10 to 20 pounds;
- The Standard size variety has a height of about 15-19 inches and a weight of 23-35 pounds.
All of these breed categories feature dogs that are compact and well-proportioned.
Coat and Fur
I am sure you agree with me that Eskimo dogs have beautiful, thick white fur. It’s their most distinctive feature. I love how glossy their outer coat is and how fluffy these pets look. On the other hand, such dense fur requires regular brushing and grooming to prevent excessive shedding, tangling, and matting.
American Eskimo Dogs – Temperament
These cute pooches are friendly, pleasant, energetic, and intelligent. They love being a part of an affectionate family and creating strong and long-lasting connections with their owners. Eskies enjoy playful activities, but they remain cautious around strangers.
Common Health Problems
Several health issues might appear, but the most common ones are:
- Allergies – most frequent are skin allergies caused by flea bites, food, and environmental factors;
- Hip dysplasia – if not treated, will lead to discomfort, mobility problems, and pain;
- Cataracts – the eye lens gets clouded and restricts your dog’s vision; severe cases require surgery;
- Progressive retinal atrophy – gradual vision loss that results in blindness;
- Obesity – sedentarism and overeating will lead to an overweight dog, which further results in strained joints and other problems.
Average Lifespan
These dogs typically live 12-15 years; some might even exceed that period if adequately cared for. Several aspects, such as diet, health management, exercise, veterinary checkups, and genetics, influence the breed’s lifespan.
Trainability
Unlike other dog breeds, Eskies are easier to train. You should start with simple commands such as “sit,” “stay,” “down,” and “come.” Use plenty of praise and treats to reward your pet whenever he follows your cues.
I’ve seen that the most efficient training sessions are engaging and short. Long ones will bore your pet and cause him to lose interest. Housebreaking, crate training, and socialization are equally important. Think about obedience classes, agility courses, and interactive dog toys.
Nutritional Needs
It would be best if you created a well-balanced diet for your puppy. These energetic dogs should eat high-quality food based on premium protein, wholesome grains, healthy fats, antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and other minerals and vitamins.
To prevent your pet from becoming overweight, monitor his calorie intake and portion size. These canine companions can quickly gain too much weight if they’re not sufficiently active and given too much food.
Both puppies and adult dogs require nutritious-dense foods, but young pups should eat more frequent meals since they have a quicker metabolism. Two primary meals per day are enough for adult dogs. Make sure to give them treats, but in moderation, as snacks.
Grooming and Maintenance
American Eskimo dogs require fur brushing at least two or three times per week, occasional baths, teeth brushing, skin monitoring, ear cleaning, and nail trimming:
- Brush your dog a couple of times per week with a slicker brush and an undercoat rake;
- You may want to bathe him once every six to eight weeks;
- Trim your pet’s nails once a month, avoiding the quick;
- Every couple of weeks, Eskies need their ears cleaned and checked for dirt or any signs of infection;
- With dog-safe toothpaste, you should brush your pup’s teeth twice weekly.
You should contact your vet when you notice anything unusual with your dog’s fur, skin, eyes, nose, or any other area.
FAQs About the American Eskimo Dogs
Is the American Eskimo Dog Easy Easily Trainable?
American Eskies are clever, so they’re pretty easy to train. This is also because they’re eager to please their owners. However, they sometimes become stubborn, so focus on positive reinforcement and consistency when training them.
Are American Eskimo Hypoallergenic Dogs?
Honestly, no furry pet is truly hypoallergenic. However, Poddles and Eskimo dogs might be safer for people with allergies.
Can I Raise My American Eskimo Puppy in an Apartment?
Yes, all size varieties of the American Eskimo dog breed can easily be raised in an apartment, especially the Miniature and Toy options. Nevertheless, they all need plenty of mental stimulation and physical exercise to live a long and healthy life. Also, avoid leaving your Eskie alone in the house for too long because he might get anxious or bored.
Final Bark
Due to their affection, energy, and charm, you’ll not regret having an American Eskimo dog as your furry companion. Their lively personality will undoubtedly light up the room. These dogs are all about creating a deep bond with their pawrents, being loyal and devoted.
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