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Pronunciation

Description

The American Eskimo is a beautiful, small to medium-size Nordic-type dog, which looks like a miniature Samoyed. There are three varieties: the toy, miniature, and standard. That means there is an Eskie for all interests and house sizes. The American Eskimo has a wedge-shaped head with muzzle and skull about the same length. It has erect triangular-shaped ears, and a heavily plumed tail curled over the back. Its neck is well carried and the topline good and level. Good legs and feet allow the Eskie to trot with bold energetic action. The profuse coat is always white, or white with biscuit or cream markings. Their skin is pink or gray. Black is the preferred color of their eyelids, gums, nose, and pads. The coat is heavy around the neck, creating a ruff or mane, especially in males. The breed is slightly longer than it is tall. The coat of the American Eskimo should not curl or wave, the undercoat should be thick and plush with the harsher outer coat growing up through it. No colors other than those described above are allowed. The eyes must not be blue and no Eskie may be shown if it is under 9 inches (23cm) or over 19 inches (48cm).

Temperament

The American Eskimo is an affectionate, loving dog. Hardy and playful, they are excellent with children. Charming and alert. Because of the dog's high intelligence and their willingness to please, they are easy to train and often rank among the top scorers in obedience trials. American Eskimos like to work. They are naturally wary of strangers, but once introduced, they become instant friends. Eskimos need to be part of the family, with a firm, consistent, confident pack leader. If you allow the dog to believe he is the ruler of your home, many varying degrees of behavior issues will arise. Including, but not limited to, separation anxiety, obsessive barking, dog aggressiveness, willful, and guarding. Without enough mental and physical exercise, they can become hyperactive and high strung, spinning in circles. Small dogs have a higher tenancy to become the pack leader over humans, because they are small and cute, and often times the humans are oblivious as to what has happened. Read Small Dog Syndrome to find out more.

Height, Weight

Health Problems

Prone to hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy. Pay close attention to the eyes and tear ducts. Some are allergic to fleas. This breed can gain weight easily if it does not get enough exercise and or they are overfed.

Living Conditions

Exercise

Life Expectancy

Litter Size

Grooming

Origin

The American Eskimo is one of the Spitz families of Nordic breeds. They are closely related to the white German Spitz. German Spitz were eventually brought to America, where the name changed to American Eskimo Dog, due to the widespread anti-German feelings during World War I.  Today they are known as a separate breed, but are closely related to the German Spitz. Samoyed, the white Keeshond the white Pomeranian and the white Italian Spitz are also said to be related to the American Eskimo Dog. Evidence suggests that "White Spitz" dogs were first brought to the United States by German settlers and despite the name, have nothing to do with the Eskimo culture. The name came about in 1913 when Mr. and Mrs. F.M. Hall first registered the breed with the UKC (United Kennel Club). Their kennel name was "American Eskimo", which became the name of the breed. The Barnum and Bailey circus used the American Eskimo dog in their act. A dog named Stout's Pal Pierre was the first dog ever to walk a tightrope. The popularity of this circus act resulted in the spread of the breed throughout the United States. In 1969 the North American Eskimo Dog Association was formed and the studbooks were closed. The American Eskimo Dog Club of America was formed in 1985 for the purpose of achieving AKC recognition. The AKC recognized the American Eskimo Dog on July 1, 1995. Some of the American Eskimo's talents are watchdog, guarding, narcotics detection, agility, competitive obedience, and performing tricks.

Group

Recognition

APRI = America's Pet Registry, Inc.
UKC = United Kennel Club
AKC = American Kennel Club
NKC = National Kennel Club
CKC = Continental Kennel Club
ACR = American Canine Registry
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

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