American Eskimo Dog

Though often associated with North America, the American Eskimo Dog traces its ancestry to the German Spitz breeds. During the early 1900s, these dogs were frequently seen in circus acts due to their trainability and eye-catching appearance. Renamed during World War I due to anti-German sentiment, the “American Eskimo Dog” became an officially recognized breed in the United States. In 1995, the AKC formally accepted the breed, recognizing three size varieties. Their long-standing reputation for intelligence and loyalty has made them a favorite among families and performers alike.

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The American Eskimo Dog boasts a thick, double-layered white or cream coat, a plumed tail that curls over the back, and a wedge-shaped head with erect, triangular ears. Their black nose, lips, and eye rims offer a stunning contrast to their snowy coat.

• Toy: 6–10 lbs
• Miniature: 10–20 lbs
• Standard: 25–35 lbs
  All sizes share the same elegant build and confident stride.

Eskies require regular grooming to maintain their thick coat and minimize shedding.

• Brushing: 2–3 times per week (daily during shedding season) with a slicker brush or undercoat rake.
• Bathing: Every 6–8 weeks.
• Ears, nails, teeth: Regular care required to prevent infections and overgrowth.
  Their coat is self-cleaning, but matting can occur without maintenance.

While not as hyperactive as some working breeds, American Eskimo Dogs need consistent daily activity.

• 45–60 minutes of exercise per day
• Great with brisk walks, agility, obedience games, and trick training
• Without stimulation, they may become vocal or destructive

Highly intelligent and eager to please, Eskies excel in obedience and trick training.

• Respond well to praise, treats, and consistency
• Can be wary of strangers, so early socialization is important
• Thrive in agility, rally, and obedience competitions
  Note: May bark frequently if not mentally engaged.

Provide a balanced, high-quality diet that suits their size and energy level.

• Toy/Miniature: ~½–1 cup daily, split into two meals
• Standard: ~1½–2 cups daily
  Avoid overfeeding, as they can gain weight easily. Look for kibble rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids for coat health.

When adopting or purchasing an American Eskimo Dog:

• Choose breeders who perform eye, hip, and knee health screenings
• Ask about socialization practices and exposure to stimuli
• Consider rescue organizations like Heart Bandits or local Eskie-specific rescues
  Avoid breeders who do not provide documentation of genetic testing or who overly focus on size extremes.

American Eskimo Dogs are generally healthy, but may be prone to:

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
• Hip dysplasia (more common in Standard size)
• Patellar luxation (especially in Toy & Miniature)
• Dental issues in smaller sizes
  Regular vet checkups and early screening can help manage potential risks.

Are American Eskimo Dogs good with children?
Yes, they are affectionate and gentle with respectful children. Early supervision is recommended due to their energy.

Do they bark a lot?
Yes, they are known to be vocal. They often bark to alert or express excitement.

Are they hypoallergenic?
No, they shed consistently and are not ideal for allergy sufferers.

How often do they need grooming?
2–3 times weekly brushing is recommended, especially during seasonal sheds.

Can they live in apartments?
Yes—Toy and Miniature sizes can do well in apartments if exercised regularly. Standard size needs more space.