The American Eskimo Dog is a comprehensive brains-and-beauty package, with outstanding excellent looks and a quick and sharp mind. Eskies are neither shy nor aggressive, but they are cautious while establishing new companions and are always vigilant and sociable.
The American Eskimo Dog, also known as the "Eskie," is a gorgeous canine with a white coat, a charming smile, and dark eyes that has earned the nickname "the dog lovely." These dogs are part of the Spitz family, which hails from the Nordic region. As a family dog, the Eskie excels in the midst of all of the household's activities.
He's a happy, friendly, sometimes rambunctious dog who's also extremely brilliant. In fact, he's considered one of the smartest dog breeds. He's a free-thinker, inquisitive, and gifted at solving problems. Obedience training, tricks, agility, conformation, and other canine sports are among his favourite pastimes.
A little-known fact about Eskies is that they were previously popular performers in circuses. The Eskie, a cute and quick learner who toured the United States in the late nineteenth century, dazzled audiences everywhere he went.
Intelligence comes with a certain amount of freedom, however. Obedience training should begin as soon as a dog is a puppy because the Eskie is a freethinker. Otherwise, the smart dog will outsmart his owner, who will be unable to keep up with him. A canine's training is designed to teach him how to behave properly in the presence of his pack leader.
Despite his small stature, the Eskie has a large mind. A good watchdog, he barks whenever someone enters or exits the house, and he may become a nuisance if left alone for too long. Even though he eventually warms up to people he doesn't know, his initial reaction is to be wary. Although he isn't particularly violent, the Eskie takes his watchdog duty extremely seriously.
The American Eskimo Dog is a good choice if you're looking for a dog with a lot to say. These dogs are known for their high-pitched barks, yoo-hoos, and mumbles. According to many owners, their Eskies communicate with them. Eskies are a great companion for busy families, but many owners prefer to have two or more of the dogs in order to keep them occupied. As long as they are walked frequently and given lots of opportunity for exercise, Eskies are ideal apartment dogs.
The American Eskimo Dog is a charming and energetic pet that is equally at home in a household of one or many people. A well-trained Eskie brings years of delight and happiness to his family.
Highlights
- Eskies are a happy, active, and smart breed. They are happiest while doing something. Classes, activities, walks, and hikes are all terrific ways to keep your Eskie busy. Keep your Eskie entertained and engaged at all times to minimise excessive barking, chewing, and other annoying behaviours.
- Remember that the Eskie needs to be with his family, so don't leave him alone for long.
- Eskies make great pets if you're confident in your leadership abilities. If you don't, you're more likely to be led by an Eskie.
- Don't put small creatures like birds, hamsters, and gerbils in the hands of even well-trained and well-socialized Eskies. If he hasn't already, he'll likely give chase.
- Never buy a puppy from a puppy mill, careless breeder, or pet store.
Characteristics
Social Appearance
Adaptability
A little dog isn't inherently better for an apartment than a larger one, contrary to popular opinion. It's not uncommon for tiny dogs to be exasperatingly excitable and vocal when living in an apartment building. An apartment dog's best attributes include being quiet, low energy, somewhat peaceful indoors, and respectful to the other inhabitants. To give your dog some privacy in your apartment, you can get a crate from this site.
Sensitivity Level
The least whiff of filth can offend some canines, whereas a harsh rebuke does not. These canines can handle a noisy, chaotic surroundings, an aggressive or boisterous owner, and an inconsistent or erratic schedule better. Got kids, a busy schedule, or a lot of parties? Choose a less sensitive dog.
Protective nature
When a dog breed is more likely than others to warn you when strangers are nearby. There is a greater likelihood that these dogs will respond to any perceived threat, whether it is the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. Strangers entering the house will likely feel welcomed by these dogs, and they will be accepted by their family as well.
Potential for Playfulness
There are certain dogs that are always looking for a game, while there are others that are more stoic and reserved. Playful dogs are adorable, but how many games of fetch or tag do you plan on playing each day, especially if you have children or other dogs that can serve as playmates.
Personality Appearance
Intelligence
The same goes for sheepdogs, who were bred to herd animals and require a high level of intelligence and attention. Because of this, if you don't provide enough cerebral stimulation, they'll make their own work, usually by digging and chewing. Dog sports and jobs like agility and search and rescue can help exercise a dog's brain.
Energy Level
High-energy dogs are constantly ready to go. These dogs can work hard all day since they were bred to do a certain job, like hunting or herding animals. These creatures are more likely to jump, play, and investigate new sights and smells.
Dogs with low energy levels prefer to sleep all day. Consider your own level of exercise and lifestyle, and whether a playful, energetic dog will excite or frustrate you.
Easy To Train
Dogs who are easy to train are more adept at quickly making a link between a cue (such as the phrase "sit"), an action (such as sitting), and a result (such as receiving a treat. Dogs that are more difficult to teach require more patience, practise, and time.
You'll need to utilise incentives and games to get your dog excited about training because many breeds are intelligent but have a "What's in it for me?" training mentality.
Family Affection Level
Affectionate With Family
Some breeds remain distant and independent, while others form close bonds with one individual and are indifferent to others. Canines raised in a family with other people are more inclined to be affectionate toward them.
Kid-Friendly
Having a blasé attitude about screaming, running youngsters, and being gentle with children are all characteristics of a dog that is good with children. There are several names you may not expect to see on the list: Fierce-looking Dog breeds such as Boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are popular among families with children (which are considered Pit Bulls). Chihuahuas, which are small, sensitive, and potentially sharp, aren't necessarily a good fit for families.
Dog Friendly
Dog and human friendship are two distinct concepts. Even though they're fine with people, some dogs may attack or dominate other dogs, while others will retreat rather than fight. It's not just genetics. They were nurtured alongside their littermates and mother for six to eight weeks, and spent a lot of time playing with other puppies.
Physical Appearance
Amount of Shedding
Having a dog in the house means dog hair on clothes and in the house. However, breeds range greatly in shedding. Some dogs "blow" (shed) all year, while others "blow" only seasonally. If you're a neat freak, choose a breed that doesn't shed much. A de-shedding tool can help keep your home cleaner.
Drooling Potential
When slobbery dogs come up to say hello, they may generate huge wet patches on your clothing. Then go for it. If you're concerned about drool, however, choose a dog with a low drool rating.
Easy To Groom
To keep them clean and healthy, certain dog breeds only require a quick brushing after which they're ready to go. It's important to think about whether you have the time and resources to properly groom a dog or if you can afford to hire someone else to do it.
Exercise Needs
Evening walks around the neighbourhood are perfectly acceptable for some breeds. Dogs designed for physically demanding jobs, like herding or hunting, have a rigorous daily exercise regimen.
These breeds may put on weight if they don't get enough exercise, and their pent-up energy may manifest itself in behaviours you don't appreciate, including as barking, chewing, and digging. Those who enjoy spending time outdoors or engaging in high-intensity canine sports, such as agility, should consider a breed that requires a lot of exercise.
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed
Weight
Starts at 30 pounds
Lifespan
12 to 15 years
Height
15 to 19 inches tall at the shoulder
History
People who own this breed refer to it simply as "spitz" because it is considered to be the prototype spitz. To be precise, one of the German variants of Spitz created in Germany, together with influences from other kinds like the Pomeranian or Volpino Italiano, is what gave rise to American Eskimo Dog. Eskies were held back by the success of other dog breeds.
As previously stated, the Keeshond came in a variety of colours, but when only grey specimens were accepted, white Keeshoden were suddenly expelled from consideration. Larger dogs were disqualified as Pomeranians when the Pomeranian standard was drawn up. So by the early 1900s, two groups of white medium-sized dogs were exempt from their breeds despite being purebreds. But it's a safe bet that they became the pets of the working class.
These dogs were brought to the United States by European immigrants as farm workers and watchdogs. In 1913, the UKC began registering them for membership purposes. The American Spitz, as it came to be known, was a popular choice for circus performers in the 1920s. Spectators often left the circus with a new member of their family, the offspring of a dazzling performer's child. There are many current-day Eskies who have circus ancestors.
Changed to American Eskimos after WWI to remove any Germanic sound in the name of the breed. As pets and farm dogs, the majority of Eskies were retained. The American Kennel Club (AKC) first recognised the breed in 1994. The Eskie is still a beloved pet and a beloved member of the community.
Personality and Temperament
American Eskimo dogs make great pets for families. Eskies are extremely devoted and want constant companionship. They have a great deal of knowledge, yet they may also be very stubborn. A good watchdog, yet prone to excessive barking, is a Labrador Retriever Unless they are exposed to a variety of people, they may develop an excessive fear of strangers. An introduction and adequate socialising can help an Eskimo get used to meeting new people.
To keep an Eskie happy, it needs to be given a lot of things to do. Boredom can cause them to dig or chew, as it does for all canines of intelligence. If not properly restrained, these dogs can pull off Houdini-style escapes.
Bright, enthusiastic, vivacious, and fun-loving, the American Eskimo makes an amusing and typically obedient companion. The Eskie, like its spitz ancestors, is an independent and stubborn dog who enjoys running, especially in the cold. In terms of spitz breeds, they are among the most docile and well-behaved. It is important to keep an eye on an Eskie because of its watchdog heritage. This means that they may not be the greatest choice for a family with small children or other pets.
Care
It should come as no surprise that the American Eskimo Dog thrives in colder regions, despite his adaptability. Owning an Eskie means you get to enjoy seeing him play in the snow, which the majority of them adore and will happily do so for long periods of time. Water sports are a favourite pastime for many people.
As long as he's an indoor dog, the Eskie may thrive in a wide range of environments, from little apartments to enormous mansions with yards. This type of dog isn't meant to be kept in a backyard. In the company of loved ones, he is at his happiest.
They require a lot of physical activity for American Eskimo Dogs. This is a big dog in a little dog packaging, and if they don't receive enough activity, they can become destructive dogs. They thrive in houses with a lot of activity, thanks to their boundless reserves of stamina.
Both the dog and the owner may suffer from separation anxiety. Avoiding this issue is the best course of action. When you have to leave your dog alone for a lengthy period of time, make sure he has lots of strong toys to keep him occupied in his crate.
Health
If you're thinking about getting an American Eskimo Dog, it's crucial to know about these ailments.
Hip Dysplasia
When one's thighbone does not fit tightly into the hip joint, it is called this ailment. Some dogs have obvious indicators of pain and disability in their hind legs, whereas others don't. (X-ray screening is the most accurate method of diagnosing the issue.) Arthritis might occur in either case as the dog ages. Ask the breeder for documentation that the parents of the dog have been checked for hip dysplasia and are free of any issues before purchasing a puppy.
Thyroid Problems
Hypothyroidism, a disorder in which the body fails to produce adequate thyroid hormone, is more common among Eskies. Dry skin and hair, a predisposition to various skin conditions, weight gain, fearfulness, hostility, and other behavioural changes are all possible symptoms. Perform a blood test every year to check for signs of the disease. Replacement hormones are frequently administered in pill form as part of the treatment.
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
This ailment affects the hips. As a result of a condition known as Legg-Perthes, a dog's femur (the major, rear-leg bone) begins to disintegrate because of a lack of blood supply. When puppies are four to six months old, they commonly start limping and losing muscular mass in their legs. In most cases, surgery is the only way to alleviate the dog's discomfort.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
In the class of eye illnesses known as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), the retina gradually degenerates. Affected dogs initially go night-blind, but as the condition develops, they begin to lose their daytime vision as well. When a dog's surroundings remain the same, many of those impacted by eyesight loss adjust well.
Pain in the knees
Your dog's patella (kneecap) may fall out of position from time to time (called patellar luxation). A few steps into his run, he picks up his back leg and skittles or hops for a few more. Once he has popped the kneecap back into position with a sideways kick, he is good to go. Your acquaintance may only need arthritis medication if the disease is minor and only affects one leg. Surgery to straighten the kneecap and prevent it from popping out of position may be necessary if symptoms are severe.
Juvenile Cataracts
Eskies under the age of six may have difficulty with this condition. Thought to be a genetic trait. Don't forget to ask the breeder if her American Eskimo Dog puppies have been certified by the Canine Eye Registration Foundation.
Deafness
If he ignores you despite the fact that his ears are fine, a more extensive hearing evaluation, including brainwave analysis, may be necessary. Hereditary deafness has been observed in several Spitz bloodlines. The sooner you bring him in for an evaluation, the better, because an ear infection could be to blame for his hearing loss.
Hypoadrenocorticism (Addison’s)
When the adrenal glands are unable to produce enough hormones to maintain the body operating correctly, Addison's disease arises. Hypoadrenocorticism can be dangerous if left untreated, and its symptoms might be mistaken for a variety of other conditions. Fortunately, a scheduled blood test can detect this problem. Eskies are more likely than other breeds to get this condition, although it can affect any dog.
Recommended Health Tests
- Hip Evaluation
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
- PRA Optigen DNA Test
Nutrition
It's recommended that you eat half to one cup of high-quality dry food per day, divided into two meals.
Size, age, build, metabolism, and level of activity all have a role in how much food an adult dog consumes. Dogs, like people, are unique and require different amounts of food. It's practically a given that an active dog will require more food and water than a sedentary one. A dog's nutritional needs are directly related to the quality of the dog food you feed him. The better quality dog food you feed him, the less you'll have to shake into his bowl.
Grooming
- In order to maintain control over this small, hairy breed, it is necessary to groom American Eskimo dogs on a regular basis.
- Keep the hair in check and decrease shedding by brushing them many times per week. Mats around the harness, collar, ears, and rump should be worked out with extra attention.
- A number of grooming instruments are needed for long-haired, double-coated dogs. These include rakes, bristle brushes, rotating-tooth combs, and wire pin brushes, among others.
- Even in the summer, don't shave your Eskimo's thick coat, which can weaken their capacity to withstand heat or cold.
Exercise
- Can be trained to be a lively, alert housedog.
- Larger Eskies require a good walk or run every day.
- Indoor games can meet many of the toy-related fitness needs, but the cerebral stimulation that comes from wandering and sniffing about in nature cannot be substituted.
- Most Eskies do well in dog parks.
- Games and tricks provide needed mental exercise.
- Overheating may be a problem because of its thick coat's ability to keep it warm in the cold weather.
Training
- Training is required for American Eskimo dogs because they are naturally stubborn. Puppies will require socialisation and obedience training, as will adult adoptive Eskies.
- With an Eskie, training should be enjoyable and light-hearted, and don't demand perfection.
- If a session is becoming too difficult, consider shortening it or ending exercise altogether for the day.
Puppies
The American Eskimo values puppyhood highly. It must be trained from a young age to follow human directions, and this must be done gradually. Dogs of this breed are more likely to have behavioural issues later in life if they are not adequately trained and socialised as adolescents. The vet should do an early health exam on your puppy to look for any potential health issues and deliver all of the required vaccinations.
In the northern United States, where temperatures can drop as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit, these energetic and cheerful canines are in high demand. Prices for these puppies range from $1000 to $2000.
Children and Other Pets
The Eskie is fantastic with kids of all ages, other dogs, and cats, and can even play with them. The Eskie's high energy level can overwhelm young children, thus adult supervision is essential when children and dogs meet.
The Eskie is not well-known for his ability to coexist peacefully with small animals and birds, which he frequently pursues.
Dog breeds related to the American Eskimo
Check out these other breeds which relate to this if you're a fan of the American Eskimo.
German Spitz
It's German Spitz, if you know what I mean. The American Eskimo is a descendant of the German Spitz, the original breed. The Wolfspitz, Giant Spitz, Medium Spitz, Mini Spitz, and Pomeranian are five different breeds of this long-haired dog with a double coat that can be any shade of white, black, cream, brown, or red/orange.
Samoyed
With its white/biscuit fur and curled tail, the Samoyed bears an uncanny resemblance to the American Eskimo in appearance. Originally bred to pull sledges and guard their owner, this breed is bright and hardworking in every way.
Finnish Spitz
Spitz-related to the American Eskimo, the Finnish Spitz has a brown-orange coat instead of the white found on the latter. The original purpose of this alert and active breed was to identify hunting prey by barking loudly.
