Breed
Group:
Non-Sporting |
| Weight:
6-40 lbs |
| Height:
9-19 inches |
| Color(s):
white, or white with biscuit cream |
| Coat:
The
American Eskimo Dog has a glorious standoff double-coat. The under coat
is dense with a longer coat of guard hair that grows through to form
the outer coat. The outer coat is straight with no wave or curl. There
is a profuse ruff around the neck. The backs of the front and rear legs
are well feathered. The coat color is white, or white with cream or
biscuit markings. This breed is an average shedder that "blows" their
coat twice a year. |
| Overview:
The
exact origin of this breed is unknown, although it is widely believed
this companion dog originated in the United States by German immigrants
in the 20th century. A Member of the Spitz family, the American Eskimo
Dog comes in three different varieties: toy, miniature, and standard.
They became extremely popular in the 1930's and 1940's as a circus
performer. |
| Character:
Commonly
referred to as the Eskie, this breed is compact and strong. A Nordic
type dog, they are exceedingly agile and alert. They are considered to
be one of the most intelligent of all dog breeds. The American Eskimo
Dog is well balanced, hardy, and known for their longevity. This
versatile breed possesses outstanding working skills, and makes a
lovely companion. |
| Temperament:
Bred
solely to be companions, the American Eskimo Dog thrives on being part
of the family. This charming and playful breed is excellent with
children, and loves to be lavished with attention. They are suspicious
and wary of strangers and make good guardians of their family and home.
They love to bark and will sound the alarm whenever they deem it
necessary. This breed does not do well if left alone for extended
periods of time or if they are isolated, as they will engage in
destructive activities. |
| Care:
This
breed requires firm bristle brushing twice weekly to prevent tangles
and mats. Daily brushing may be necessary when they are shedding. They
have drier skin than most other breeds; so bathing should only be done
when absolutely necessary. The American Eskimo Dog is prone to hip
dysplasia, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. |
| Training:
The
American Eskimo Dog is easy to train and eager to please. This breed is
highly talented in obedience trials. It is crucial they have early
socialization to prevent aggression later in life. Training must be
done with firmness, fairness, consistency, and positive reinforcement.
The American Eskimo Dog is quite gifted in guarding, performing tricks,
competitive obedience, agility, and narcotics detection. |
| Activity:
This
breed must have regular daily exercise. They enjoy securely leashed
walks or playing in an enclosed yard. The American Eskimo Dog is active
indoors and has a busy nature. They benefit immensely from family play
sessions. They will do okay in an apartment provided they are
sufficiently exercised and paid attention to. |