Did you know?
Most American Eskimo Dogs can trace their pedigrees back to a couple of famous circus dogs. They spread throughout America by travelling with the circus.
American Eskimo Dog (toy)
Every dog is a lion at home. – H.G. Bohn
The American Eskimo Dog, or Eskie is a member of the ancient Spitz family of dogs. “Spitz” is German and means “sharp point” and refers to the shape of the muzzle.
The Eskie is a descendent of the White German Spitz dogs who date from the late Stone Age. Around the time of the First World War, their name was changed to American Eskimo Dog as a reaction to the tense political climate. These dogs were bred to guard human settlements against unwelcome animals and people.
The Toy American Eskimo Dog is the smallest of the three types of Eskie and stands a maximum of 12 inches (30.5) tall at the shoulder.
He has a thick, fluffy, white, double coat and carries his tail curled up over his back. The Eskie’s coat repels dirt and he has no body odor. He is a clean living dog and is even known to wash his face like a cat. Be prepared for shedding – these dogs “blow coat”!
Photos displayed courtesy of Paula Wakely, Paula’s Polar Pups Reg’d, British Columbia
The Eskie is alert, devoted, and territorial, and as such, makes an excellent watch dog. Accustomed to eating and sleeping close to his people, he bonds very closely with his family and is happiest when in the family circle. He is not an dog to be left alone for long periods. A lovable, gentle, and friendly dog of high intelligence, the smiling Eskie has been used in rodeos and circuses where their eager-to-please personalities were popular with the crowds.
A lively, eager dog, the Eskie has a high activity level. He enjoys active play but like many of the other Toy breeds rough housing is not appropriate. Very young children must be taught to respect his small size. Properly trained and socialized, the Eskie is good with children and other pets.
These dogs are naturally curious and love to investigate. Without enough mental and physical exercise, they can become hyperactive and high-strung, spinning in circles. A good outlet for all that energy is any of the various dog sports such as agility and flyball. With their willingness to please, Eskies often do very well in obedience trials.
Breed Clubs
National American Eskimo Dog Association of Canada
American Eskimo Dog Association of Vancouver
Kandu American Eskimo Dog Club
PO Box 1574, Brooks, AB T1R 1C4
(403) 362-7399
(Virginia Collins)