American Eskimo Dog
Profile
The American Eskimo Dog is a playful and intelligent breed known for its fluffy white coat and friendly demeanor. They are highly trainable and make great companions for families, as they are affectionate and loyal towards their owners.
Characteristics | Details |
Dog Breed Name | American Eskimo Dog |
Breed Group | Non-Sporting Group |
Origin | United States |
Alternative Names | Eskie, Spitz, American Spitz, Eskimo Spitz |
Suitable Weather | Cold and snowy weather. |
Avg. Weight | 18-35 pounds |
Avg. Height | 15-19 inches |
Life Expectancy | 12-15 years |
Coat Color | White |
Coat Type | Double coat |
Shedding Frequency | 60 days. |
Activity Level | Moderate |
Hypoallergenic | Yes |
Grooming | Moderate |
Dog Cost | $600 – $1,500 |
History
The American Eskimo Dog is believed to have originated from Germany, where they were known as the German Spitz. They were brought to the United States in the early 20th century and became popular as circus performers due to their intelligence and agility. The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1995.
Highlights
The American Eskimo Dog is a highly intelligent and alert breed, known for their quick learning abilities and obedience.
They are a friendly and playful breed, making them great companions for families and individuals alike.
American Eskimo Dogs have a distinctive white double coat that is both beautiful and easy to maintain with regular grooming.
They are known for their agility and athleticism, excelling in activities such as agility training, obedience competitions, and even therapy work.
Despite their name, American Eskimo Dogs are not actually from Alaska or related to the Eskimo people. They were originally bred in Germany and were popular circus performers in the early 20th century.
Appearance
The American Eskimo Dog is a small to medium-sized breed with a compact and sturdy build. They typically weigh between 20-30 pounds and stand around 15-19 inches tall at the shoulder.
They have a fluffy double coat that comes in white or biscuit color variations. Their distinctive appearance includes erect triangular ears, a plumed tail that curls over their back, and a fox-like face with dark almond-shaped eyes.
Personality & Behaviour
The American Eskimo Dog is known for its friendly and playful personality. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train. This breed is also known for their alert and protective nature, making them great watchdogs. American Eskimo Dogs are affectionate and loyal to their families, but can be reserved around strangers.
They have a high energy level and require regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy. Overall, the American Eskimo Dog is a loving and devoted companion with a charming and lively demeanor.
Temperament
Compatibility with Children | Excellent with Children |
Compatibility with other Dogs | Highly Social and Dog-Friendly |
Compatibility with Strangers | Highly Friendly |
Playfulness | Highly Playful |
Protectiveness | Highly Protective |
Trainability Level | Highly Trainable |
Energy Level | High |
Barking Level | Moderate |
Need of Exercise | Moderate |
Compatibility with Children
The American Eskimo Dog is known for its friendly and playful nature, making it a great companion for children. They are affectionate, energetic, and intelligent, making them easy to train and interact with kids.
However, they can be protective of their family, so early socialization is important to ensure they are comfortable around children. Overall, the American Eskimo Dog is a wonderful breed for families with children, as long as they are given the proper training and attention.
Compatibility with other Pets
American Eskimo Dogs are known to be friendly and social dogs, making them generally compatible with other pets. They tend to get along well with cats and other dogs, especially if they are socialized from a young age.
However, their high prey drive may cause them to chase smaller pets such as birds or rodents. Proper introductions and supervision are important when introducing an American Eskimo Dog to other pets to ensure a harmonious relationship.
Best Compatible Dogs with American Eskimo Dog
1. Poodle
2. Shetland Sheepdog
3. Samoyed
4. Australian Shepherd
5. Border Collie
Care Requirements
The American Eskimo Dog requires daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. They need regular grooming to maintain their fluffy white coat and prevent matting. Mental stimulation is also important for this intelligent breed, as they can become bored easily. Proper training and socialization are essential to prevent behavioral issues.
Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet are necessary to ensure their overall health and well-being. Additionally, they thrive in a loving and active household where they can receive plenty of attention and affection.
Monthly Maintenance Cost
The American Eskimo Dog is a medium-sized breed that requires regular grooming and exercise to maintain their health and happiness. Monthly maintenance costs for an American Eskimo Dog can vary depending on factors such as size, age, and overall health. Here is a breakdown of potential monthly expenses for an American Eskimo Dog:
- Food: $30-$50
- Grooming (including grooming supplies): $50-$100
- Vet visits (including vaccinations and check-ups): $50-$100
- Toys and treats: $20-$30
- Training classes or supplies: $50-$100
Overall, owners can expect to spend around $200-$400 per month on maintaining their American Eskimo Dog.
Health
The American Eskimo Dog is a beautiful and intelligent breed known for their fluffy white coat and playful demeanor. However, like all dogs, they are prone to certain health issues that owners should be aware of. Some common health issues in American Eskimo Dogs include:
- Hip Dysplasia: A genetic condition that affects the hip joints and can cause pain and difficulty moving.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy: A degenerative eye disease that can lead to blindness.
- Luxating Patella: A condition where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position, causing lameness and pain.
To prevent these health issues and ensure your American Eskimo Dog lives a long and healthy life, it is important to take the following health precautions:
- Regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and prevent joint issues.
- Regular vet check-ups to monitor for any developing health issues.
- Proper grooming to prevent skin infections and matting of the coat.
By being proactive in your dog’s health care and staying informed about common health issues, you can help your American Eskimo Dog live a happy and healthy life.
Food & Feeding
The American Eskimo Dog is a small to medium-sized breed known for their fluffy white coat and friendly demeanor. When it comes to feeding an American Eskimo Dog, it is important to provide them with a high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their size and activity level. Look for a dog food that is specifically formulated for small to medium breeds and is free of artificial colors and preservatives.
Feeding an American Eskimo Dog can vary depending on their age, size, and activity level.
As a general guideline, adult American Eskimo Dogs typically require around 1 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dog food per day, divided into two meals.
Puppies may require more frequent feedings throughout the day to support their growth and development.
It is important to establish a consistent feeding schedule for your American Eskimo Dog to help prevent obesity and digestive issues. Feeding them at the same times each day can also help regulate their metabolism and prevent begging behavior. Be sure to provide fresh water at all times and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your American Eskimo Dog’s feeding habits.
Fun Facts About American Eskimo Dog
The American Eskimo Dog is not actually of Eskimo origin, but rather descended from German Spitz dogs.
Despite their name, American Eskimo Dogs were popular performers in circuses in the United States during the early 20th century.
American Eskimo Dogs are known for their beautiful, fluffy white coat and striking black points on their ears and muzzle.
These dogs are highly intelligent and excel in obedience training, agility, and other canine sports.
American Eskimo Dogs are a very social and friendly breed, making them great family pets and companions.
Cost
The average cost of an American Eskimo Dog ranges from $600 to $1,500. Prices may vary based on factors such as breeder reputation, pedigree, and location. Additional expenses such as vaccinations, grooming, and training should also be considered when budgeting for this breed.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
What is the temperament of the American Eskimo Dog?
The American Eskimo Dog is known for being intelligent, playful, and affectionate. They are also alert and make good watchdogs.
How much exercise does an American Eskimo Dog need?
American Eskimo Dogs are energetic and require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation are important for this breed.
Are American Eskimo Dogs good with children?
Yes, American Eskimo Dogs are generally good with children. They are playful and enjoy spending time with their human family members. However, as with any dog breed, it is important to supervise interactions between dogs and children.
Do American Eskimo Dogs shed a lot?
Yes, American Eskimo Dogs have a thick double coat that sheds year-round. Regular grooming, including brushing and occasional baths, can help manage shedding.
Are American Eskimo Dogs easy to train?
American Eskimo Dogs are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Positive reinforcement methods, consistency, and patience are key when training this breed.