| American Eskimo Dogs, fondly referred to as Eskies, are white Spitz type dogs. This ancient Nordic breed originated in Germany, descended from a variety of European Spitzes that may have included the White German Spitz, the Italian Spitz, the Samoyed, the white Keeshound or large white Pomeranian. The first dogs of this breed arrived in the United States with German immigrants in the late 19th century. Their popularity grew as the agile, intelligent, sparkling white dogs became known throughout America as performing dogs in the Barnum and Bailey Circus. |  |
The breed has been recognized by the United Kennel Club since 1913. Originally known as the German Spitz, then as the American Spitz, it was officially renamed the American Eskimo Dog in 1917. In 1969 the North American Eskimo Dog Association was formed to encourage and promote the breeding of a better purebred American Eskimo Dog. The American Eskimo Dog Club of America was formed in 1985 to help achieve AKC recognition and set the standard by which American Eskimo Dogs would be judged. The American Eskimo Dog was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club as a Non-Sporting Group breed in 1995. The American Eskimo Dog breed is newly recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC), effective March 1, 2006. The term "Eskimo Dog" may have been chosen because of their Northern/Arctic breed ancestry but these compact dogs are not sled dogs. American Eskimo Dogs are bred in three sizes - Standard, Miniature and Toy. The Standard, largest of the three, measures from 15 inches to 19 inches high at the withers (shoulders) and usually weighs between 18 to 35 pounds. Miniature American Eskimo Dogs are 12 inches to 15 inches high and Toys are 9 inches to 12 inches high at the withers. In all size categories, males are usually larger than females. The AKC describes the American Eskimo Dog as a loving companion dog that "presents a picture of strength and agility, alertness and beauty. It is a small to medium-size Nordic type dog, always white, or white with biscuit cream." Eskies require no special trimming or clipping, but they are heavy shedders. A grooming routine for an Eskie should include twice weekly brushing to help control shedding and maintain a shiny, mat-free coat. This is a breed that "blows it's coat" once or twice a year. During these periods of profuse shedding, daily brushing is needed. Unless more frequent baths are needed because the coat becomes soiled, bathing a few times a year is recommended. American Eskimo Dogs are friendly and gentle, playful and fun loving. They can be great companions for kids. Eskies are devoted, loyal dogs that form intense bonds with their people. They're alert, protective, and will bark to warn of intruders. They're excellent watchdogs, but since they can also become overly territorial and wary of strangers, Eskies require early socialization with other dogs and people. Eskies thrive on attention. They're curious, clever, busy dogs who will find something fun to do when bored. They need firm but gentle obedience training, followed by consistent, positive reinforcement. Crate training is advised for Eskies who must be left home alone. As long as they are indoors, living as part of the family, Eskies are adaptable to either city or country living. They must have regular daily exercise... either walking on a leash or outdoor play in a fenced yard. With sufficient exercise, American Eskimo Dogs will even do well living in an apartment. The same qualities that made Eskies so popular as circus dogs... a natural athletic ability, exceptional intelligence, being quick to learn and eager to please.... help them excel in both obedience and agility competition. Find a reputable breeder, when looking for an Eskie pup. Parents should have important health clearances for Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), an inherited retinal disease which can eventually result in blindness, and for Hip Displasia (OFA). If you're thinking about sharing your life with an American Eskimo Dog, check the rescue groups listed under Eskie links to see all the wonderful Eskies now available for adoption. Eskie Links Eskie Groups EskieLovers American Eskimos - A Breed Apart Eskie_owners NaturalAE Eskie Books 
These beautiful dogs have thick, pure white or white with cream colored double coats and black to dark brown noses, lips, eyes and eye rims. Eskies have a fox-like head, triangular-shaped erect ears that are slightly rounded at the tips, and lion-like manes. Their softly plumed tails are carried over their backs.
They are hardy, healthy dogs with an average life span of about 15 years to as long as 18 years. Have a trusted Veterinarian perform regular health checks and vaccinations. Effective flea prevention is essential to prevent dermatitis which could go un-noticed beneath an Eskie's heavy undercoat.
A place for people who love the American Eskimo Dog (Eskie) to share brags, stories of their Eskies, discuss health welfare.
This group is for all American Eskimo dog lovers, breeders, owners of the breed, and future owners of the breed.
A list created specifically for owners and fans of the American Eskimo Dog.
A discussion of natural approaches to the care and feeding of American Eskimo Dogs (Eskies)
