The American Eskimo Dog is a smart and playful breed. The light colored coat is dense and fairly easy to maintain.

Physical Characteristics

• Three sizes: toy, miniature, standard
• Black lips, nose and eye rims
• Eyes are dark to medium brown
• Deep, broad chest
• Tail is carried loosely on back
• Coat: Dense white or biscuit-colored fur
• Height: toy, 9-12 inches; miniature, 12.5-15 inches; standard, 15.5-19 inches
• Weight: toy, 6-10 pounds; miniature, 10-20 pounds; standard, 18-35 pounds
• Average lifespan: 12-14 years

Temperament

• Smart, friendly, alert, affectionate, playful, fast learner
• Interaction with people: Wary of strangers, but warms up quickly. Good with children.
• Interaction with animals: Good with small pets
• Training: Easily trained; needs early socialization to prevent aggression
• Protection: Good watchdog; protective of home and family

At Home

• OK for apartments with sufficient exercise
• Needs small yard

Grooming

• Average shedder
• Coat repels dirt and is easy to maintain

Brief History

• Originated in the U.S.
• A member of the spitz, or Nordic, family
• Used in circus acts in the late 1800s
• Name changed from "American Spitz" to "American Eskimo" in 1917

Fido's Facts

• Nicknamed the "Eskie"
• Not a descendent of working Eskimo dogs
• Talents include narcotics detection, competitive obedience and performing tricks