American Eskimo Dog or Eskie is sometimes called “the dog beautiful” by admirers. With his fluffy white coat, it looks like that he came from an igloo. However, he has a very different origin.
Therefore, this dog breed is not from America but originated in Germany and descended from the German Spitz. Also, Eskie keeps its owners on their toes with high-energy antics. Moreover, this breed is a perfect balance of brains and beauty for the right owner.
If you want to adopt this breed for an emotional support animal and learn more about this breed. Therefore, continue reading this blog and know everything about American Eskimo.
American Eskimo Dog History and Origin
In the 1800s, the German immigrants came to the United States, and they introduced Americans to the spitz breed.
American Eskimo was created from Nordic breeds and a member of the Spitz family. In the early 1900s, the breed came to America, where its name changed to American Spitz. During World War I, its name officially changed to American Eskimo Dog.
However, now they are known as a separate breed and changed the name from American Spitz to American Eskimo Dog. Also, the Samoyed, Keeshond, the white Italian Spitz, and the white Pomeranian are related to the American Eskimo Dog. Also, the European workers use these dogs for watchdogs when they come to America.
Moreover, the White Spitz dogs were first brought by German settlers to America, and despite their name, they have not related to the Eskimo culture.
Also, in 1969 the National American Eskimo Dog Association was formed, and the herd book was closed. The American Eskimo Dog Club of America in 1985 was formed to achieve AKC (American Kennel Club) recognition. Furthermore, on 1st July 1995, American Kennel Club accepted the American Eskimo Dog.
This dog breed is an intelligent dog and was considered as a multi-purpose working dog of the farm. They have the best herding instincts and a very obedient dog breed.
American Eskimo Dog vs. Samoyed
The American Eskimo Dog and Samoyed are the two breeds that look gorgeous and will catch people’s eyes walking down the street.
Also, these two breeds look alike, but some characteristics set them apart. Below the table give you a better understanding of these two breeds.
Factors |
American Eskimo Dog |
Samoyed |
Origin |
America, Germany |
Russia |
Shedding |
Shed twice a year heavily |
Shed twice a year heavily |
Size |
9 - 20 inches |
19 - 23.5 inches |
Coat |
Long with a short undercoat (Fluffy) |
Long with a short undercoat (Dense) |
Life Span Time |
13-15 years |
12-14 years |
Weight |
6-35 pounds |
35-65 pounds |
Grooming |
Require average grooming |
Require a lot of grooming |
Temperament |
Happy around its owner. and will treat everyone else indifferently |
Easy to adjust with strangers and pets |
Family Friendly |
Super Friendly |
Super Friendly |
Intelligence |
More Intelligent |
Less Intelligent |
Energy Level |
High Energy |
Medium Energy |
Adaptability |
Fit for the large houses and apartments |
Fit for the large houses and apartments |
Color |
White, Biscuit |
White, Biscuit, Cream |
Sensitivity Level |
More sensitive |
Less sensitive |
Barking |
High |
Average |
Social Needs |
Need a lot of social interaction |
A Social breed |
Health Issues |
Fewer health issues |
Fewer health issues |
Stinkiness |
Medium |
Low |
Sleeping |
Don’t sleep too much |
Don’t sleep too much |
Hypoallergenic |
No |
Yes |
American Eskimo Dog Size
An American Eskimo dog is a playful breed that varies in size and can be available in three different sizes. Some people prefer larger dog breeds, so some prefer smaller breeds.
Here is a size chart of the American Eskimo Dog.
Toy American Eskimo Dog |
Miniature American Eskimo Dog |
Standard American Eskimo Dog |
Weight |
7 - 10 pounds |
11 - 20 pounds |
20 - 40 pounds |
Height |
9 - 12 inches |
13 - 15 inches |
16 - 19 inches |
American Eskimo Dog Physical Traits
American Eskimo Dogs are sometimes described as “busy dogs” because they need a lot more exercise than other dog breeds. They are active, which means they will quickly learn new tricks. Also, with playful and amiable nature, they make an excellent pet for emotional support.
Below you can find a few physical traits of the American Eskimo Dog.
Body |
Head |
- Small to Medium-sized
- Nordic type body
- Strong and compact
|
- Skull is wedge-shaped
- Slightly crowned and wide between the ears
|
Feet |
Eyes |
- Compact and oval
- Toes are well arched
- White toenails
- No dewclaws on the back legs
|
- Slightly oval
- Tear stain underneath the eyes
- Medium to dark brown, dark brown to black rims, and white eyelashes
|
Teeth |
Nose |
- Strong close-fitting teeth
|
|
Neck |
Color |
- Medium length
- Slightly arched
|
- Pure white or white with biscuit cream color coat
|
Coat |
Muzzle |
- Double coat with a dense undercoat and a longer outer coat
- Texture is straight
|
- Broad muzzle not exceeding the skull length
- Lips are thin and tight
|
Ears |
Tail |
- Erect triangular shaped ears
- Slightly blunt-tipped
|
- Moderately high, reaching near the point of the hock
|
Gait |
Forequarters |
- Bold, agile, and balanced gait
|
- Well angulated with muscular shoulders
|
Hindquarters |
Skull |
- Well angulated
- Well muscled and powerful thigh
- Stifles are well bent
- Front legs are parallel to each other
|
- Softly wedge-shaped, with the widest breadth between the ears
- Slightly crowned
|
American Eskimo Dog Grooming
An American Eskimo Dog requires regular brushing and bathing. With their double coats, they need to be bathed and dried for a neat look. However, selecting the correct product is essential to achieve the best results. They need a gentle yet effective product to avoid the dog's coat from being damaged.
With bathing, brushing is also necessary to prevent the dog from becoming tangled. Also, the Eskies shed, so thorough brushing is essential to remove its dead hairs.
However, when you use the dryer over the coat, make sure the dog doesn’t get irritated and not quickly move the dryer back and forth. Slowly move the dryer on the coat.
Also, apply the shampoo to the dog coat and build a healthy, strong, and manageable coat. Try to avoid using heavy conditioners and hot water; it makes their skill dull and damaged.
Some dog owners apply oil on the dog’s fur to prevent dirt and bacteria. Therefore, it is good, and it never makes its skin dry and irritated.
Moreover, like all other breeds, properly trim the nails of the American Eskimo Dog. Also, trimming the pads of the foot helps to give a good grip to the dog on different surfaces. It also improves the dog’s paws from cracks and rubbing. Check their ears and remove all the dirt.
It is important to check the anal glands of your dog by their vet. This will keep them healthy and free from illness. Also, dental hygiene is necessary for a healthy dog.
Further, comb their skin at least twice daily during summer because this helps remove fleas and ticks more quickly than just waiting until after finding one or two on the dog.
American Eskimo Dog Nutrition
The American Eskimo dog is an active dog breed, and it requires proper regular diets to stay healthy and fit. To maintain the dog’s overall health better, you must provide a good and well-balanced diet to them which includes organic dog food.
The below table shows which nutrients are safe for your dog.
Nutrients |
Importance |
Protein |
Protein is a main source of energy for dogs. However, some protein diets have high calories. Therefore, it is better that you give it in a limited amount.
You can give your dog that food containing proteins like meat, eggs, and vegetables that are not toxic for them.
|
Fats |
Fats are also important for dogs’ health and have many benefits, including keeping their coat glossy. Also, keep in mind that not all fats are good to consume, so be careful of what you're feeding them with.
|
Water |
Water can be just as important for them as it is for you. Giving them a bowl of cold, refreshing water will help soothe their thirst and keep them hydrated. |
Fiber |
Fiber helps to maintain the dog’s digestive system. You can easily give green beans, potatoes, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes to your Eskie. |
Vitamins |
Vitamins help to maintain optimum health in dogs. It is recommended for all breed sizes and ages, but especially important if your dog has a stomach issue or food intolerance. |
American Eskimo Dog Health Problems
The American Eskimo Dog is a healthy dog breed, and they have fewer health issues. However, it doesn’t mean that you do not take care of their health.
Here are some of the main health problems that the Eskies mostly face.
- Hip dysplasia
- LCP (Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease)
- Weight Gain
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Juvenile Cataracts
- Diabetes
Therefore, you must provide the right care, exercise, and diet to your American Eskimo dog and prevent several diseases. Also, when your dog’s health is good, it will easily take part in dog sports competitions.
Further, routine appointments with the vet are a must, even if your dog seems to be in good condition.
American Eskimo Dog Temperament and Personality
American Eskimo Dog is determined and independent. Its nature makes them a joy to own as a pet. This dog breed is one of the most friendly, well-behaved, obedient, and easy-to-train Spitz breeds.
Also, this breed with protective nature is the preferred choice for a home with small children. They love to be around people, but if they are alone for a long time without any company, they get depressed. It also makes a good guard dog, and with little training, it will become the best ESA.
Furthermore, an Eskie is a good communicator who uses their eyes to show you what they want. For instance, if they want a toy, look at the toy and then look at you, signaling that they want to play. With their intelligence, this dog breed is easy to train for the right times to bark.
Another main thing about the American Eskimo Dog is they love to swim. Their double coat allows them to resist water. Therefore, they can swim without getting sunk.
American Eskimo Dog is very energetic and requires a robust workout. However, the duration of the workout is determined according to the size of the dog.
American Eskimo Dog for Sale
According to the size, the American Eskimo Dog price varies. However, its price starts from $800 to $1500.
Also, when you buy this dog breed, you should ask its owner about some things.
- Registration
- Health certificate
- Current vaccination
- Health tests
- Diet and age
- Temperament
- Training needs
- Size
- Grooming needs
- Life span
- Activity level
Therefore, keep these things in mind and try to buy from a reputable breeder that provides you all the information.
American Eskimo Dog Interesting Facts
Here are some interesting facts about the American Eskimo Dog.
American Eskimo Dog as an Emotional Support Animal
American Eskimo Dog is an excellent choice for the emotional support animal. This dog breed might be ideal for you due to its intelligence, loyal, polite, and highly protective nature.
This dog breed becomes your best friend for life once you create a strong bond with it. Also, they are friendly, cheerful, and work well with kids.
Therefore, if you want to adopt this dog breed, you have to apply for the ESA letter. For a valid ESA letter, simply consult RealESALetter.com .
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an American Eskimo Dog cost?
The average cost is $600-$4500 if you want to adopt an American Eskimo Dog. The cost may increase if you purchase from a breeder, usually around $1,000-$1,500.
Are American Eskimo dogs dangerous?
The American Eskimo dog is not dangerous and has been considered to be the friendliest breed of dogs. It is best for families with kids who can get a lot of love from their lovable pet. This breed also makes an excellent companion because they will always want attention.
Do American Eskimo dogs bite?
Yes, like other dogs, American Eskimo also has a biting habit. Therefore, your dog should learn that biting is only appropriate for chewing on treats and toys and that humans are off-limits.
Do American Eskimo dogs smell?
The American Eskimo dogs rarely smell unless they are dirty. However, you must keep them clean. Also, they love the cold climate and want to play in the water.