American Eskimo Dog Spitz: Breed Guide and Characteristics

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Posted Nov 6, 2024

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Photo of a White American Eskimo Dog on Green Grass
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The American Eskimo Dog Spitz is a friendly and outgoing breed that makes a great companion for many families. They originated in Germany as a circus performer dog and were later developed in the United States.

These dogs are highly intelligent and trainable, which makes them a popular choice as a family pet. They thrive on interaction and attention from their owners.

Their thick double coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling, but it's worth the effort to keep them looking their best.

Breed Characteristics

The American Eskimo Dog is a compact canine with a smooth gait, embodying strength and agility. Its face is a Nordic type with black points and triangular-shaped ears.

Their eyes are a key feature, with a keen, intelligent expression and a slightly oval shape. The preferred coat color is pure white, though cream-colored biscuit is also accepted.

The breed comes in three sizes: Toy, Miniature, and Standard, with the Toy measuring 9 to 12 inches and the Standard measuring 15 to 19 inches. All classes have a ruff (mane), though this is more pronounced in males, and a tail that curls at the buttock.

Eskipoo

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The Eskipoo is a cross between an American Eskimo and a Poodle, resulting in a dog that's both fun-loving and playful. They typically stand between 9 and 16 inches tall.

Their friendly and loyal nature makes them a great fit for families with children, as they're gentle but playful. Eskipoos are loving and people-oriented dogs, and they get along well with other pets.

Their coats can vary, but they all require frequent grooming. Whether your Eskipoo has a curly or straight coat, daily brushing is a must to maintain their coat.

Here are some key characteristics of the Eskipoo breed:

Eskipoos are easy-going dogs that are relatively low maintenance, but they still need regular grooming to stay happy and healthy.

Baskimo

The Baskimo is a unique breed that's a mix of the American Eskimo Dog and the Basset Hound. They're wary of strangers but loving with people they know.

Their grooming needs are relatively low to moderate, thanks to the Basset Hound's influence. However, they are likely to be moderate to high shedders.

These dogs are not well-suited to apartments and urban living due to their tendency to bark. They require a more spacious environment to thrive.

Here's a summary of the Baskimo's key characteristics:

Breed Appearance

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The American Eskimo Dog is a compact canine with a smooth gait. Their face is a Nordic type with black points and triangular-shaped ears.

Their eyes are a key feature, with a keen, intelligent expression and a slightly oval shape. The preferred coat color is pure white, though cream-colored biscuit is also accepted.

The American Eskimo Dog has a distinctive coat consisting of long soft guard hairs that grow through a dense undercoat. This forms the overcoat, which is characteristic of the breed.

They come in three sizes: Toy, measuring 9 to 12 inches, Miniature, measuring 12 to 15 inches, and Standard, measuring 15 to 19 inches. All classes have a ruff (mane), which is more pronounced in males.

Their tails curl at the buttock, adding to their overall charm. The American Eskimo Dog's appearance is truly unique and endearing.

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Size

The American Eskimo Dog comes in three recognized sizes: Toy, Miniature, and Standard. Each size has its own unique characteristics, but there's no ideal size within each division.

Credit: youtube.com, The Yorkie Poo: Complete Breed Guide. Size, Pros & Cons, Health Issues

The American Kennel Club (AKC) measures the sizes at the withers, which is the highest point of the dog's shoulder. This is the standard way to measure the height of the breed.

Here are the specific size ranges for each division:

  • Toy: 9 to 12 inches
  • Miniature: 12 to 15 inches
  • Standard: 15 to 19 inches

Dogs that fall outside of these ranges, either under 9 inches or over 19 inches, don't meet the breed standard set by the AKC.

Grooming and Maintenance

The American Eskimo Dog's coat is a beautiful, fluffy white fur that sheds a lot, so frequent brushing is a must. Brush your American Eskimo two to three times a week to prevent matting and keep their hair well feathered.

Their skin is very sensitive, so baths should only be given once every couple of months or when they get dirty. This will help prevent irritation and keep their skin healthy.

To keep their ears clean and healthy, check them regularly for dirt and possible infection, and use a pH-balanced ear cleaner at the recommendation of your veterinarian.

Coat and Color

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The American Eskimo's coat is a beautiful feature that requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. The breed has a dense undercoat and a long outer coat that forms a pronounced lion-like ruff around the neck.

The ruff is more noticeable in males than in females, and it's a distinctive characteristic of the breed. This means that male American Eskimos will have a more dramatic mane than their female counterparts.

The face is covered with shorter hair, making it easier to clean and maintain. This is a plus for owners who want to keep their dog's grooming needs simple.

The body has medium-length hair, except for the ruff, which is longer and more impressive. This mix of hair lengths creates a unique and attractive coat that's characteristic of the breed.

Both the fore and hind limbs are well feathered, as is the fluffy tail. This means that owners will need to pay extra attention to these areas when grooming their dog.

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Breed Maintenance

Credit: youtube.com, Step by step Dog Grooming - Order of the Groom on a Well Maintained Dog

The American Eskimo requires frequent brushing to prevent matting and keep their hair well feathered.

Brush your American Eskimo two to three times a week to keep their coat looking its best.

Their fur contains oil that prevents dirt from adhering to it, making it easy to keep clean.

However, they do shed a lot, so a good fur remover can be a lifesaver.

Frequent brushing will also help keep your dog clean and prevent matting.

American Eskimo Dogs can be bathed only occasionally, not more than 3-4 times a year, as excessive bathing can dry and irritate their skin.

You should clean their eyes often to prevent eye issues and tear staining.

While grooming, always check your dog's ears for dirt and possible infection.

Daily exercise is essential for this active breed, and they do well in small spaces too.

Their diet is similar to other small and medium-sized breeds, but be mindful of any food allergies your dog may have.

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Temperament and Training

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American Eskimo dogs are known for their loving and outgoing personalities. They are very smart and eager to please, which makes them one of the most trainable breeds.

Their high intelligence and trainability are due to their history as circus dogs, where they excelled at obedience and agility competitions. With consistent training and positive reinforcement, American Eskimos can learn a wide range of commands and tricks.

American Eskimos are social dogs that thrive on attention and interaction. They can develop behavioral problems if left alone for long periods, so it's essential to provide them with plenty of exercise, playtime, and affection.

Here are some key temperament traits to consider:

Overall, American Eskimo dogs are a wonderful breed for active families or individuals who can provide them with the attention and exercise they need.

Eagle

The American Eagle Dog, a mix between the American Eskimo Dog and the Beagle, is a loyal and protective breed. They're vigilant and attentive, always keeping an eye out for their family.

An American Eskimo Dog on the Grass
Credit: pexels.com, An American Eskimo Dog on the Grass

These dogs can be challenging to train, but they're motivated by affection and treats. Regular positive reinforcement and patience can go a long way in shaping their behavior.

One thing to keep in mind is that American Eagle Dogs are moderate to high shedders. This means they'll need regular brushing and baths to stay clean and healthy.

They're also moderate to frequent barkers, which might not be ideal for apartment or urban living. But if you're willing to work with them, they can make great companions.

Here's a quick rundown of the breed's characteristics:

Overall, the American Eagle Dog is a loving and loyal breed that requires attention, patience, and regular grooming.

Huskimo

The Huskimo is a breed that requires steady training due to its high intelligence. They are highly intelligent dogs that need consistent guidance to reach their full potential.

Their Husky parents also make them very vocal dogs, so be prepared for a dog that will likely bark and howl. This can be a challenge for some owners, but with patience and practice, you can learn to understand and respond to their needs.

Credit: youtube.com, ► Siberian Husky Breed [2020] Temperament & Training

One thing to keep in mind is that Huskimos are best suited for active owners who can provide them with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They have a high energy level, which means they need regular physical activity to stay happy and healthy.

Here are some key characteristics of the Huskimo breed:

Overall, the Huskimo is a loyal and loving breed that thrives on attention and interaction. With the right training and care, they can make wonderful companions for active families or individuals.

Temperament & Personality

American Eskimo dogs are known for their loving and outgoing personalities. They're extremely smart and eager to please, making them one of the most trainable breeds.

These dogs are bred to be non-aggressive and vocalize to announce strangers, but they rarely bite or snap. They're great with children and cats, but may chase smaller pets like birds, hamsters, or gerbils.

Their high energy levels mean they need regular exercise, but they're also well-mannered inside the home. They thrive on positive attention and can develop anxiety if left alone for long periods.

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American Eskimo dogs are social animals and love to be part of the family. However, they can develop behavioral problems if neglected or left alone for too long.

Here's a breakdown of the breed's temperament:

Overall, American Eskimo dogs make wonderful companions for active families who can provide them with the attention and exercise they need.

Health and Nutrition

American Eskimo dogs require high-quality food that's either commercially manufactured or home-made with natural ingredients, and it's essential to have a veterinarian or pet-nutrition specialist's supervision.

Their diet should be balanced according to their age and energy expenditure level.

Set a regular schedule for mealtime to ensure your Eskimo dog doesn't go hungry.

Fresh, clean water should be available at all times.

Healthy dog treats with natural ingredients and low-calorie content can be great aids in training these gluttonous dogs.

Supplementing your Eskimo dog with salmon oil for dogs can help keep their joints healthy and their coat shiny.

Health

Alaskan Malamute Dog and American Eskimo Dog Standing on a Grass Field
Credit: pexels.com, Alaskan Malamute Dog and American Eskimo Dog Standing on a Grass Field

American Eskimo Dogs are generally a healthy breed, but it's crucial to ensure they're vaccinated against health issues like Kennel Cough when they're a pup.

Hip dysplasia is a common condition that affects the breed, caused by an incorrect alignment between the hip socket and the upper thigh bone at joint level.

Progressive retinal atrophy is another condition that can impact the breed, leading to loss of vision as the photoreceptors degenerate.

Because they're a small dog breed, having a dog ramp in the home can greatly improve their mobility and reduce the risk of injury.

Diet and Nutrition

Feeding your American Eskimo dog high-quality food, either commercially manufactured or home-made with natural ingredients, is crucial for their well-being. This food should be balanced according to their age and energy expenditure level.

Ensure your Eskimo dog doesn't go hungry by setting a regular schedule for mealtime. Fresh, clean water should be available at all times.

Treats can be great aids in training, but too many can cause obesity, so choose healthy dog treats with natural ingredients and low-calorie content.

Ownership and Care

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Choosing the right American Eskimo Dog breeder is crucial. A responsible breeder will provide proof of periodic genetic testing and ideally be registered in the national breed's club or the AKC.

To ensure you're getting a healthy puppy from a good bloodline, look for breeders who prioritize genetic testing and responsible breeding practices. This can help reduce the incidence of health issues like hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy.

Eskie puppies are naturally playful and energetic, so they need to be socialized from an early age. This will help them grow into well-balanced dogs.

Here are some key factors to consider when adopting an American Eskimo Dog:

  • Choose a breeder who prioritizes genetic testing and responsible breeding practices.
  • Look for breeders who are registered in the national breed's club or the AKC.
  • Consider the puppy's energy level and socialization needs.

As Eskies mature, their exercise needs change. Once they reach middle age, they become calmer and need less intense exercise, but still require a brisk walk or play-fetch time each day.

Similar Breeds

If you're looking for breeds similar to the American Eskimo Dog, you might want to consider the Swedish Vallhund, which, like the American Eskimo Dog, is a Spitz-type breed with a similar build and temperament.

The Finnish Spitz is another breed that shares similarities with the American Eskimo Dog, with a similar wedge-shaped head and erect ears.

The Keeshond, a Spitz-type breed, is also worth considering, as it has a similar fluffy coat and friendly personality.

Aussimo (Australian Cattle)

Free stock photo of american eskimo, animal, dog
Credit: pexels.com, Free stock photo of american eskimo, animal, dog

The Aussimo is a cross of the American Eskimo Dog and Australian Cattle Dog. This mix creates highly intelligent, trainable, and attentive dogs.

Aussimos are medium-sized dogs with a height of 17-19 inches and a weight of 24-41 pounds. They have a thick coat that sheds heavily, requiring regular brushing and baths.

Their lifespan is quite impressive, ranging from 12-15 years. This means you'll have plenty of time to enjoy their company and train them to be great companions.

If you're considering an Aussimo, be prepared for a moderate to high energy level. They need regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.

Similarly Sized Breeds

If you're looking for breeds that are similar in size to the American Eskimo, you're in luck! The Peruvian Inca Orchid is a great match, with a 97% similarity in size.

These two breeds are often compared due to their similar stature. They're both relatively small dogs that make great companions. The Petite Goldendoodle is another breed that's similar in size, with a 95% similarity to the American Eskimo.

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Credit: youtube.com, The 10 "Major Ancestral" Dog Breeds

In fact, the Petite Goldendoodle is often considered a great option for those who want a small, friendly dog. The English Cocker Spaniel is also a good match, with a 95% similarity in size.

However, it's worth noting that the Woodle and Kromfohrlander are slightly smaller, with a 94% similarity to the American Eskimo.

Similar Maintenance Breeds

If you're looking for breeds that require similar maintenance to the American Eskimo, you'll want to consider the German Sheprador, Russo-European Laika, Care-Tzu, Golden Labrador, and Golden Newfie.

These breeds have a high similarity in maintenance requirements, with the German Sheprador being 94% similar, the Russo-European Laika being 94% similar, the Care-Tzu being 94% similar, the Golden Labrador being 94% similar, and the Golden Newfie being 94% similar.

If you're new to dog ownership, you may be wondering what these breeds are like. The German Sheprador is a cross between a German Shepherd and a Labrador Retriever, while the Russo-European Laika is a type of sled dog from Russia. The Care-Tzu is a hybrid of a Chihuahua and a Poodle, making it a great choice for those with allergies.

Here's an interesting read: Shih Tzu Puppy Care

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an American Eskimo Spitz dog cost?

American Eskimo Spitz dogs typically cost between $600 to $2,000, depending on factors like bloodline and breeder reputation. If you're interested in bringing an Eskie home, learn more about the costs and benefits of owning this lovable breed.

What is the life expectancy of an Eskimo Spitz?

The average life expectancy of an Eskimo Spitz is 12 to 17 years. With proper care, they can live a long and healthy life.

Shawna Welch

Writer

Shawna Welch is a versatile and engaging writer with a passion for exploring complex topics in an approachable way. With a keen interest in animal behavior, Shawna has developed a niche expertise in canine behavioral issues, shedding light on common problems and offering actionable advice for pet owners. Her writing style is characterized by clarity, empathy, and a commitment to accuracy, making her a trusted voice in the field.