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American Eskimo

American Eskimo
History:

Country/Date of Origin: United States/1900s

The descendent of larger Spitz dogs imported from Germany in the 1800s, the American Eskimo was created by selectively breeding for a small size and a pure white coat. It was NOT descended from sled dogs as is popularly thought. There are three variations of the Eskie, identical in every way except size. The strong hunting instincts of the ancestors of the American Eskimo dog have been replaced with an inbred guarding skill. Primarily a companion animal, the little white American version of the Spitz has been recognized by the United Kennel Club since 1913. In 1995 the American Kennel Club granted the Eskie full status.

 Other Names Body Type Personality Coat Health Concerns

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Eskie, American Spitz

AKC Group: Non-Sporting

Breed Club: American Eskimo Parent Club

Rescue Club: American Eskimo Dog Club of America

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Body Type:

  • A small typically-built dog of the Northern dog group; looks like a miniature Samoyed
  • Three sizes: Toy, Miniature and Standard
  • Height: 9-12 inches (toy), 12-15 inches (miniature) or 15-19 inches (standard) (at shoulder)
  • Weight: Under 10 pounds (toy),10-18 pounds (miniature) or 20-35 (standard)
  • The long tail is carried high over the back and is not altered
  • The ears are erect and never altered

Personality:

  • Playful, intelligent and eager to please
  • A fine child's companion
  • One family dog
  • Wary of strangers
  • Slightly conservative
  • Will bark to warn of intruders

Coat:

  • Thick, plush undercoat with a harsher outercoat that should never wave or curl
  • Contains natural oil that repels soil so frequent bathing is not required
  • Permissible colors are white or off white
  • Sheds heavily in spring and summer otherwise grooming is moderate

Health Concerns:

  • Exceptionally healthy
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Tasty Tidbits:
  • Puppies of this breed are irresistible. They look like little polar bears.