|
The American Eskimo is of the Spitz type family of dogs, originating in Germany. Related to the German Spitz, the American Eskimo is thought to be related to the white Keeshond and the Samoyed as well. History has it that these Spitz type dogs were brought in from Germany to the USA and the reason they became so famously loved in the USA, was by working for the Barnum and Bailey circus. The first dog to walk a tight rope was the American Eskimo! As the circus traveled to different cities, they would sell the American Eskimo puppies along the way, hence how the breed became so popular.
The American Eskimo is a cute, playful and sweet dog that is always young at heart. They are very intelligent dogs that excel in obedience and agility competitions. They are great family dogs as they love children but are a bit reserved around strangers until introduced when they become very friendly. They are high energy dogs that love to run and they need regular walks. The American Eskimo was bred to be mans best friend and with that in mind, doesn’t enjoy being left alone as they can become destructive or excessively barky.
The American Eskimo comes in 3 different sizes… the Toy, the Miniature and the Standard. Weighing in at 6-10 lbs (2.5-4.5 kgs) for Toys, 10-20 lbs (4.5-9 kgs) for Miniatures, and 18-35 lbs (8-16 kgs) for Standards, and averaging around 9-12 inches for Toys, 12-15 inches for Miniatures, and 15-19 inches high for Standards. They have a soft white or cream dual layered coat that is soft and plush. The eyes should be small and brown (blue is a disqualification for the AKC Standards) and the ears are pricked up and triangular making them look alert and intelligent. They have a curled over tail and if are going to be showed must NOT be under 9 inches or over 19 inches tall.
The American Eskimo is prone to eye problems such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy and tear ducts becoming clogged. Hip dysplasia and skin infections such as dermatitis can occur as well, but on the whole this dog is a very healthy breed.
This dogs intelligent and want to please its owners makes it a great candidate for any obedience or agility trials. They are energetic and quick and would excel in these competitions. Daily walks are needed for this dog. This dog should be trained in a kind manner as if trained negatively can become growly and disobedient towards the owner. The American Eskimo would be good for new dog owners as they are easy to train.
For this breed, either daily or 2-3 times a week, they should be brushed (a bristle brush would be ideal) as their coat is long and soft. They are considered average fur shedders but twice a year will “ blow their coat”. They should be bathed about once every 3 months as they have dry skin and bathing them more often will dry it out even more.
This breed is categorized in the Non-Sporting Group. They would be great family dogs as they love children and affection. (Keep in mind that very young children should be monitored to not hurt the dog while playing or petting as this will annoy the dog.) The American Eskimos lifespan is 15 years and up. They have about 5 pups per litter. When obtaining a baby American Eskimo, keep in mind that every puppy is different and to research your breed before bringing the baby home!
|
