American Eskimo Dog

Non-Sporting Group

Also known as: German Spitz, Eskie

Size Category:Medium
Height:15-19 inches
Weight:25-35 pounds
Life Span:13-15 years
Compare American Eskimo Dog

Affectionate With Family

How affectionate a breed is likely to be with family members, or other people he knows well. Some breeds can be aloof with everyone but their owner, while other breeds treat everyone they know like their best friend.

Good With Young Children

A breed's level of tolerance and patience with childrens' behavior, and overall family-friendly nature. Dogs should always be supervised around young children, or children of any age who have little exposure to dogs.

Good With Other Dogs

How generally friendly a breed is towards other dogs. Dogs should always be supervised for interactions and introductions with other dogs, but some breeds are innately more likely to get along with other dogs, both at home and in public.

Openness To Strangers

How welcoming a breed is likely to be towards strangers. Some breeds will be reserved or cautious around all strangers, regardless of the location, while other breeds will be happy to meet a new human whenever one is around!

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Note: Scores reflect typical breed tendencies. Individual dogs may vary based on training, environment, and genetics.

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Note: Some traits may be unavailable for certain breeds due to limited or inconsistent data from recognized sources.

Care Guide

  • ●American Eskimo Dog grooming requires minimal effort but demands consistency
  • ●Brush their fluffy double coat 2-3 times weekly to reduce shedding and prevent mats
  • ●Bathing should be occasional (every few months) to avoid dry, irritated skin
  • ●Regular nail trimming is essential, like with all breeds
  • ●Their natural fur oils repel dirt, so brushing alone often keeps them clean
  • ●Shedding occurs almost constantly, so consistent grooming is key

Colors & Markings

Colors

WhiteWhite & Biscuit

Health Information

Ethical American Eskimo Dog breeders prioritize health testing for common genetic issues like hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy. Regular ear cleaning is essential to prevent debris buildup and wax accumulation, while consistent teeth brushing helps maintain overall oral health, just as it does for all dog breeds.

Recommended Health Tests

Hip EvaluationOphthalmologist EvaluationProgressive Retinal Atrophy, PRCD (PRA-prcd, PRCD) - DNA Test

📜 History

The American Eskimo Dog traces its roots to German immigrants arriving in the U.S. during the early 1800s, particularly in states like Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Ohio. These settlers brought the German Spitz—a small, white, versatile farm dog—with them, which later became the foundation of the breed. By the late 19th century, the German Spitz’s intelligence, agility, and striking appearance made it a star in traveling circuses, vaudeville shows, and Wild West performances, including the famous Pierre, a tightrope-walking Eskimo Dog in the 1930s Barnum & Bailey Circus. Anti-German sentiment during World War I led to the breed’s name change from German Spitz to American Eskimo Dog, inspired by an Ohio Spitz kennel. Despite its long U.S. history, the AKC officially recognized the breed in 1995, cementing its legacy as a beloved, adaptable companion once used for farm work and entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the American Eskimo Dog is generally excellent with children. They are typically patient and tolerant, making them great family pets. However, supervision with young children is always recommended.
The American Eskimo Dog sheds a moderate amount. Regular brushing can help keep loose hair under control.
Yes, the American Eskimo Dog is generally intelligent and eager to please, which makes them easier to train than many other breeds. Positive reinforcement works best.
The American Eskimo Dog requires moderate grooming. Brushing a couple of times a week should keep their coat in good condition.
The American Eskimo Dog can be a suitable choice for a first-time owner who is willing to do their research and dedicate time to training and care.

🔗Related Breeds

Breeds similar to American Eskimo Dog

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Bichon Frise

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American Water Spaniel

American Water Spaniel

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Compare American Eskimo Dog with Boston Terrier

Overview

About This Breed

The American Eskimo Dog is a highly intelligent, loyal, and versatile breed with a strong bond to its family. Energetic and eager to please, they thrive on companionship and mental challenges, making them playful and affectionate with their owners while also being alert and watchful of their surroundings. Their curiosity and trainability make them quick learners, but they can become destructive if left alone or understimulated.

🎭Temperament

FriendlyAlertReservedIntelligentProtective

Purpose

Versatile farm dog and performing dog (circus, vaudeville, Wild West shows)

Breed for

Circus performer

Best Suited For

Active families, experienced dog owners, or individuals who can provide companionship and mental stimulation

Ideal Owner Profile

This breed is best suited for an active, engaged owner or family who can provide plenty of interaction, mental stimulation, and regular exercise, preferably in a home with a securely fenced yard.

Training Difficulty

Easy

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Common Challenges

Owners may face challenges with constant shedding and the need for frequent grooming, as well as potential separation anxiety or destructive behavior if left alone for long periods.

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About Our Data

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Our breed data is standardized using a consistent scoring system across temperament, trainability, and care needs to ensure fair comparisons based on the same criteria.

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We regularly update information as new data becomes available. Our goal is to provide an honest, helpful resource for researching dog breeds and adoption decisions.