American Eskimo Dog

The American Eskimo Dog, also known as the Eskie, is a Nordic Breed. They are a member of the Spitz family. They descended from the European spitzes- white German Spitz, white Keeshond, white Pomeranian, and the Volpino Italiano. After World War II, breeders on the West Coast may have even included some Japanese Spitz into the Eskie.

During the 19th century, the Eskie was usually found in communities of German immigrants. The immigrants dogs could not be recognized in their native countries after reaching the Untied States. They came to be known as the American Spitz.

Late in the 19th century, the Eskies were very popular in the circus. They are extremely intelligent, alert, friendly and agile. They traveled in many traveling circuses throughout the United States. The public favored the breed because of their sparkling white coat and quickness. The Circus trainers favored them because of their trainability, and agility. The Circus kept their own records of the breed, which included listings of the dogs tricks as well as who their parents, grandparents and other ancestors were.

These dogs have been bred to be a house dog, companion and watch dog. They are also excellent watchdogs. They will sound a warning bark to announce the arrival of any stranger, and they will also do their duty to protect their home and their families.

American Eskimos are wonderful with their human family including children, as long as they are near their family they will be content. These dogs do not do well as "outside dogs" nor do they care much for kennel situations. They usually prefer cold weather rather than warm weather. Their coat is easier to maintain then you may think as their coat easily repels dirt and they have no doggie odor when clean. They are also known to clean their faces like cats.

Eskies should be thoroughly socialized when young to avoid potential aggression-related accidents. Introduce your new puppy to a variety of sounds, people and activities to assure that he doesn't become fearful. Sadly, many Eskies tend to be fear biters due to lack of proper socialization. Lack of socialization can also lead to the Eskie urinating when afraid as well.

There are 3 sizes for the Eskie, the Toy which is 9-12 inches tall, the Miniature is 12-15 inches tall, and the standard is 15-19 inches tall. Their coat is pure white but a little biscuit cream color is also found. Their coat is a double coat-dense undercoat and a longer coat of guard hair growing through it to form the outer coat.

Health problems in the breed include hip problems, eye problems, epilepsy, and allergies.