| AKC Group: | Non-Sporting |
| A.K.A.: | Spitz, Eskie |
| Functions: | Companion, Competition |
| Year of Origin: | 1800s |
| Country of Origin: | Germany |
| Life Span (yr): | 14 - 15 |
| Colors: | White |
| Height (Inch): | Toy: 9 - 12 Miniature: 12 - 15 Standard: 15 - 19 |
| Weight (lb): | Toy: 6- 10 Miniature:- 10 - 18 Standard: 18 - 35 |
| Size: | Small |
| Hair Length: | Medium |
| Energy: |  |
| Playfulness: | |
| Ease of Training: |  |
| Exercise Needed: | |
| Self Protection: | |
| Grooming: |  |
| Shedding: | |
| Watch Dog: | |
| Living Area: | |
Appearance:
The American Eskimo Dog is a beautiful breed of dog with an intense expression. His eyes are brown in color and are practically oval in shape. He has eyelashes that are white in color, to blend in with his fur. He has ears that are held upright on his head and are triangular-shaped with little bunches of fur coming out of the orifices. They blend nicely with his head, as well. He has a strong neck that he holds up with pride. It is moderately long and quite poised. His body is muscular, including his chest and legs. The coat of the American Eskimo Dog has a thick undercoat and a straight, harsh top coat.
Temperament:
The American Eskimo Dog is a bright, aware, and sociable dog. He can be rather reserved, but will never be described as timid or aggressive in nature. He is protective over his family and will bark in alarm if a person he does not know approaches; however, he will not provoke an attack. He is quick to learn new things and wants to please his family. A real charmer, the American Eskimo Dog loves to play and is great with children. He is happiest when he is part of a family and when he partakes in the daily activities of family life.
Health:
The American Eskimo Dog is a relatively hardy breed of dog without many hereditary conditions that will affect their health. Since his eyes are known to tear, his eyes should be watched for clogged tear ducts and related infections. He is also susceptible to hip dysplasia, a very common but painful disorder which can affect his mobility. He must be monitored on a routine basis to insure that he has not gained unnecessary weight – which can increase the rates of hip dysplasia. Progressive retinal atrophy is also a concern for many American Eskimo Dogs and may cause blindness in its most severe form. Because his coat is so thick, it should be checked regularly for fleas and skin infections.
Maintenance:
The American Eskimo Dog is actually quite simple to maintain. He should be washed occasionally to insure that his coat does not become stained. He should also be brushed a few times each week. It is especially important to brush him when he is shedding his fur – two times each year. He can be shaved, if he is living in a hot climate; however, he is prone to sunburn – so it may not be the best course of action. The American Eskimo Dog loves to be walked every day. If he can run off of his leash in a safe place, even better. Sometimes he will need to run with other dogs to fulfill his needs to run with a pack.