The Eskipoo dog breed is a cross between an Eskimo Spitz and a Poodle, resulting in a friendly, outgoing, and intelligent companion.
These adorable dogs typically weigh between 20-40 pounds and stand 10-18 inches tall.
Their low-shedding coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
Eskipoo dogs are generally good with children and make great family pets due to their patient and gentle nature.
Their high energy levels make them suitable for active families who enjoy outdoor activities.
Intriguing read: Eskipoo Puppies
What Is an Eskimo Dog Poodle Mix?
The Eskipoo, a delightful mix of American Eskimo Dog and Poodle, is a unique breed that's not recognized by major kennel clubs. They're a small dog, typically standing 9-15 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing 15-20 pounds.
Their size is just one aspect of what makes them special, but it's worth noting that their coat can vary greatly depending on the influence of their parent breeds. They can have a thick and double-coated coat or a curly/wavy coat, and it requires regular brushing to prevent matting.
Regular brushing is crucial to prevent matting, and it's recommended to do it regularly. In fact, occasional professional grooming every 4-6 weeks is also recommended to keep their coat looking its best.
One thing to keep in mind when considering an Eskipoo as a pet is their potential for stubbornness or aloofness. Without proper socialization, they can be wary of strangers, so early socialization and training are essential.
Here's a brief rundown of their key characteristics:
- Size: Small (9-15 inches tall, 15-20 pounds)
- Coat: Variable (thick and double-coated or curly/wavy)
- Temperament: Loyal, playful, intelligent, and independent
- Exercise Needs: Moderate
- Training: Moderately easy to train
Overall, the Eskipoo is a loving and intelligent breed that requires attention to their grooming and socialization needs.
Breed Overview
The Eskipoo breed is a medium-sized dog with a varied appearance. They can weigh anywhere from 20 to 40 pounds and stand between 15 and 18 inches tall.
Their coats can be tan, brown, black, or merle, and they often have a round head with floppy, triangular ears and a black nose. Their eyes can be brown or blue, and they may have a short and smooth curly coat like a Poodle or a long and thick coat like an American Eskimo.
In terms of their temperament, Eskipoos are intelligent, playful, and affectionate dogs. They thrive on mental stimulation and require regular exercise to prevent boredom and frustration. With proper care and training, they can make great companions for active families of all sorts.
Here are some common colors found in the Eskipoo breed:
- White
- Black (can include tints of blue or red)
- Brown (ranging from light to dark)
- Grey (some may change to grey color before turning five years old)
What Does It Look Like?
The Eskipoo is a small-sized dog with a round head, floppy and large triangular poodle-style ears, and a black nose. Their eyes can either be brown or blue.
They have a medium-length coat that can be quite dense or wiry with a double layer, making them more suitable for colder environments.
An Eskipoo's coat can come in a variety of colors, including white, black, brown, and grey. Some Eskipoos may have tints of blue or red on their black coats.
On a similar theme: Blue Shih Tzu Puppies
History
The Eskipoo's history is a bit of a mixed bag, as they're a mixed breed after all. They don't have a distinct breed history, but their parent breeds are well-known and loved.
On a similar theme: Miniature Small Mixed Breed Dogs
The American Eskimo Dog, one of the Eskipoo's parent breeds, is a member of the Spitz family. Spitz dogs are Nordic dogs with distinctive features like foxlike faces and thick, weather-resistant coats.
It's unclear where exactly the American Eskimo Dog originated, but it's believed to have descended from small, white Spitz-type dogs brought to the United States by German immigrant communities. These dogs were likely descendants of the white German Spitz, white Keeshonden, or large Pomeranians.
The American Eskimo Dog was originally known as the American Spitz, but was renamed in 1917 – although nobody really knows why.
For more insights, see: Toy American Eskimo Dog
Breed Organizations
The Eskipoo doesn't have an official breed organization because it's a hybrid breed. This is a notable difference from purebred dogs that often have established breed organizations.
Reputable dog breeders are a crucial part of finding a healthy and well-socialized Eskipoo puppy. They prioritize breeding healthy dogs and provide lifetime support.
Backyard breeders, on the other hand, are more focused on making a profit than producing well-adjusted dogs. They may not properly screen their breeding stock for health problems or socialize their puppies.
Worth a look: Bedlington Terrier Breeders
About and History
The Eskapoo is a relatively new breed, which means it hasn't had time to establish its own history.
As such, their backstory is that of the two parent breeds. The American Eskimo dog, one of the parent breeds, is a member of the Spitz family and originated in the United States with German immigrant communities.
The American Eskimo falls on the smaller end of the size range for Nordic breeds, which can vary greatly in size. They typically have a thick, weather-resistant coat and a foxlike face.
The other parent breed, the Poodle, is a highly intelligent and active dog that thrives on mental stimulation. This is a trait that the Eskapoo often inherits, making them easy to train but requiring more time and attention from their owners.
The Eskapoo's coat can vary in color, but they often have a thick, curly-haired coat with floppy, curly-haired ears. Some individuals may have a "puffy" texture to their coat, favoring their American Eskimo parent.
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What Have We Learned?
The Eskipoo is a relatively low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming, requiring only regular brushing to manage their coat.
Their coat is also hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for people with allergies.
One thing to keep in mind is that they can have behavioral problems, which can be a challenge for owners.
They're high-energy dogs that need plenty of space to exert themselves, making them unsuitable for apartment living.
However, with regular walks and playtime in a big yard or park, they can thrive in a variety of living situations.
Health and Care
The Eskipoo is generally a healthy breed, but like any dog, they can be prone to certain health issues. Hip Dysplasia and Elbow Dysplasia are common skeletal conditions that can cause pain and arthritis.
Regular exercise is essential for the Eskipoo's physical and mental well-being. A daily walk of at least 40 minutes, combined with indoor or outdoor play, will keep them happy and healthy.
Some Eskipoos may be born with genetic predispositions to health issues, including Ear Infections, Glaucoma, and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify these issues early on.
Here are some common health problems that can affect Eskipoos:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Ear Infections
- Glaucoma
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
- Cataracts
It's essential to monitor your Eskipoo's health closely, especially as they age, and to provide them with a safe and comfortable living environment.
Health Needs
As you bring an Eskipoo into your family, it's essential to be aware of the potential health issues they may face. Hip Dysplasia is a common skeletal condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to instability and potential degeneration of the joint.
Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help prevent or manage this condition. Eskipoo owners should also be mindful of their dog's weight to reduce the risk of Hip Dysplasia.
Ear Infections are another common issue that can cause discomfort, itching, odor, discharge, and pain in Eskipoos. Regular ear cleaning and inspections can help prevent these infections.
Glaucoma is a condition characterized by increased pressure within the eye, which can lead to damage to the optic nerve and potentially vision loss. Symptoms include redness, pain, cloudiness of the eye, and vision changes.
As Eskipoos age, they may develop cataracts, a cloudy film that sets into the eye lens, preventing light from entering. Cataracts can only be reversed with surgery.
Some Eskipoos may also be prone to Gastric dilatation-volvulus, also known as the twisted stomach, a condition where the dog's stomach becomes overstretched or rotated due to excessive gas content. Exercise after eating increases the risk of this condition.
Here are some common health issues that Eskipoos may face:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Ear Infections
- Glaucoma
- Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
- Cataracts
- Gastric dilatation-volvulus
Average Lifespan
Eskipoos can live up to 10 to 13 years if they're looked after and fed very well.
Regular exercise is crucial for maintaining their overall health, but it's essential to avoid overexertion, especially for older Eskipoos.
Feeding Eskipoos a balanced diet that includes essential nutrients is vital for their well-being, and it's recommended to consult with a veterinarian for personalized dietary advice.
Eskipoos can suffer from dental problems if their diet is not properly managed, which can lead to pain and discomfort if left untreated.
Grooming Requirements
Eskipoo owners need to brush their coats 4 to 5 times per week to prevent excess shedding and mats.
Regular brushing will also help prevent tangles and knots from forming, especially if your Eskipoo takes after its Poodle parent.
Daily tooth brushing is essential to reduce plaque, prevent tartar, and delay dental disease.
Trimming your Eskipoo's nails every two weeks will keep them healthy and prevent overgrowth.
You should check your Eskipoo's ears and eyes regularly to remove dirt and reduce the risk of infection.
Bathing your Eskipoo is only necessary once every 2 to 3 months, unless dirt is visible in their coat.
If your Eskipoo takes after its Poodle parent, they'll need regular clipping and parlour trips every 2 to 3 months.
Using a soft brush and a wide-tooth comb will help detangle your Eskipoo's coat and prevent mats.
Training and Behavior
The Eskipoo is a breed that thrives on structure and attention. They need a trainer who can teach them with patience and consistency, as they respond very well to positive reinforcements.
Eskipoos are people-pleasers, making them relatively easy to train. However, they do require a lot of daily exercise and playtime, which can be a challenge for some owners.
To keep them entertained, obedience training, puzzle toys, and canine sports are great options. They love to train and work their brains, so providing mental stimulation is essential.
Here are some common behavioral problems to watch out for:
- Barking a lot, which can be a problem in apartment living
- Suffering from separation anxiety, leading to destructive behavior
- Stubbornness, which can make training more difficult
Overall, with the right training and attention, the Eskipoo can make a loving and playful companion.
Trainability
Eskipoos are generally easy to train, but they do require a trainer who can teach them with patience and consistency. They thrive on positive reinforcement, so be sure to reward them with treats and praise when they do a great job.
One of the reasons Eskipoos are easy to train is that they're highly intelligent. They're people-pleasers, which means they'll do their best to make you happy. However, this also means they need to be kept busy and stimulated mentally and physically.
Eskipoos need a job to do, and they'll often take on a role as a working dog. They respond well to obedience training, puzzle toys, and canine sports. In fact, they love to train for these activities so much that they'll often keep their playfulness into adulthood.
If you're planning to leave your Eskipoo alone for extended periods, be prepared for potential behavioral problems. They can suffer from separation anxiety, which can lead to destructive behavior. They also have a tendency to bark a lot, which may not be suitable for apartment living.
Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind when training your Eskipoo:
- They thrive on positive reinforcement
- They need mental and physical stimulation
- They require patience and consistency in training
- They can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for too long
- They may bark a lot if not properly trained
Exercise and Activity Levels
The Eskapoo is a lively, spritely fellow that thrives on regular daily exercise. They enjoy a reasonable length walk that leaves them feeling pleasantly tired.
To keep your Eskapoo happy and healthy, plan on strenuous exercise for at least an hour a day. This can be a long walk, jog, or playtime. Many of these dogs love games like fetch, which can help wear them out without wearing you out.
They need mental stimulation as much as physical exercise, so consider enrolling them in dog sports, such as agility, or obedience training to a high level. This will give their active mind a workout and keep them engaged.
If you live in an apartment, you'll likely have to take them on long walks to meet their exercise needs. A dog walker is almost required unless someone in the family is at home for much of the day and can take them on multiple walks.
These dogs can adapt well to apartment living as long as their needs are met, but they can get a bit stir-crazy if they are isolated for long periods. They need to be with their people, as they are people-oriented dogs.
Additional reading: Are Cocker Spaniels Good for Apartments
Family and Lifestyle
The Eskipoo is a fantastic family dog, especially for active families who have plenty of time to play and exercise them. They're incredibly loyal and loving, and their playful nature makes them a joy to be around.
They do exceptionally well with children, and their affectionate personalities make them great companions. They love to lick their little fingers and head and cuddle them.
However, they can be a bit destructive if they don't get enough physical and mental stimulation. They need plenty of daily playtimes and exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
Children and Pets
If you're considering bringing an Eskipoo into your family, it's essential to think about how they'll interact with your little ones. They're generally great with kids, but young children need supervision because Eskipoos are fragile.
Eskipoos are natural cuddlers and love to lick their kids on the hands and head, so be prepared for a lot of affection. However, they can be a bit clingy and may have difficulty adjusting if you're gone for a couple of hours.
If you have other pets at home, the Eskipoo can be a great addition. With proper introduction, they're often willing to be friends with other dogs. Just remember to introduce them slowly and under controlled circumstances.
However, small animals like hamsters might not be the best fit for an Eskipoo household. Their hunting nature and high prey drive make them a bit too enthusiastic for tiny pets.
Eskapoo as Family Dog
The Eskapoo makes a great family dog, especially for active families with kids. They're known to be loving and gentle with children, but it's essential to supervise interactions to ensure everyone's safety.
Their playful nature is a huge plus, and they'll often lick and cuddle with your little ones. However, they can be fragile, so young children need to be taught how to handle them gently.
One thing to consider is that Eskapoos are high-energy dogs that require regular exercise and mental stimulation. They thrive on activities like obedience training, puzzle toys, and canine sports, and they'll get destructive if left alone for too long.
If you're an active family who enjoys hiking or playing sports together, an Eskapoo would be a great addition. They love to be part of the action and will keep up with your energetic lifestyle.
Here are some key characteristics to consider when deciding if an Eskapoo is right for your family:
Overall, the Eskapoo is a loving and loyal companion that will bring joy and energy to your family. Just be sure to provide them with the exercise and attention they need to thrive.
Cost and Availability
The cost of an Eskipoo can vary depending on several factors, including the breeder, location, and demand. If you're looking to buy an Eskipoo, be prepared for a price range of $600 to $5,300.
To give you a better idea, the median cost of an Eskipoo puppy is $600, while top-quality puppies can cost upwards of $1,700 to $5,300. This is because some breeders charge more for puppies with rare characteristics, such as blue eyes or apricot and brown colors.
Before bringing an Eskipoo home, make sure you factor in the costs of food, vet bills, grooming, and other supplies, which can add up to $500 to $2,000 in the first year and $500 to $1,000 in subsequent years.
If you're looking to adopt an Eskipoo, you can find them in reputable rescue centers. However, keep in mind that many Eskipoo owners abandon their pets due to the breed's high energy and attention needs.
How Much Does It Cost?
The cost of an Eskipoo can vary depending on several factors, including the breeder, location, and demand.
The median cost of an Eskipoo puppy is $600.
If you live in an area where Eskipoos are popular but in short supply, prices may increase.
Top quality puppies can cost between $1,700 and $5,300.
In addition to the initial cost of the puppy, becoming a dog owner comes with various expenses.
You'll need to budget for food, deworming, heartworm, vaccines, vet bills, flea control, grooming, spay/neuter fees, dental care, training, and other supplies.
These expenses can add up quickly, so it's essential to plan ahead.
A good rule of thumb is to allocate a budget of $500 to $2000 for the first year and $500 to $1000 in the following years.
Where to Buy or Adopt a Dog
If you're looking to bring home an Eskipoo, you can find them through reputable breeders or rescue centers.
However, it's essential to understand that many owners abandon their Eskipoos in rescue shelters because they don't realize how much time and energy these dogs require.
If you're considering adopting an Eskipoo, you should be prepared to provide them with constant affection, entertainment, and playtime.
You'll also need to think carefully about whether you have the commitment and ability to meet their needs.
If you're still interested in adopting an Eskipoo, here are some reputable websites to check:
- https://www.petfinder.com/pet-adoption/dog-adoption/
- https://www.adoptapet.com/dog-adoption
- https://www.petrescue.com.au/
- https://marketplace.akc.org/search-puppies
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Eskipoos bark a lot?
Eskapoos can be prone to excessive barking if they don't receive enough mental and physical stimulation. Regular exercise and engaging activities can help minimize this behavior
Does an Eskipoo shed?
Eskipoos have a moderate shedding coat, but the amount can vary depending on their inherited coat type
Are Eskipoos good dogs?
Yes, Eskipoos are known for being cheerful and affectionate companions, making them a great choice for many families. They are friendly, outgoing dogs that thrive on human interaction.
How big does an Eskipoo puppy get?
An Eskipoo typically grows to be a small dog, weighing up to 20 pounds and standing 9-15 inches tall at the shoulder. With proper care, your Eskipoo puppy will reach its full size in about a year.
What is the lifespan of an Eskipoo female dog?
An Eskipoo's lifespan is typically 10-12 years. Regular exercise and careful food intake are crucial to maintaining their health and longevity.
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