BREED DESCRIPTION & INFORMATION

American Eskimo Dog
BISS, Multi BIS R.B. CH Wright's Brodie O'Phantomrun
Photo courtesy: Phantomrun Kennels

Breed Registries:


Note: The breed registries indicated above are the most recognized all-breed registries. The breed may also be recognized by other registries not indicated here. For further details about dog registries, please see the document: Dog Breed Registries in North America.

* — See CKC Recognition Of The American Eskimo Dog, dated 7 March 2006.


Height:

Standard: 15 to 19 inches
Miniature: 12 to 15 inches at the shoulder
Toy: 11 inches or less

Breed Profile:

The American Eskimo Dog, or Eskie, is a member of the Spitz group and one of the most ancient of the dog families, dating back almost 6,000 years. The German word "spitz", meaning "sharp point", refers to the shape of the muzzle. His typical pointed face combined with the snowy white coat give him a striking appearance.

The Eskie was specifically bred to guard people and property and, therefore, is territorial by nature and an excellent watch dog. He is very loyal to his family and is known for being gentle and playful with children. He is energetic, alert and highly intelligent.

The American Eskimo Dog comes in three different sizes — Standard, Miniature, and Toy. The Toy Eskie is the smallest but still maintains all of the qualities of the larger sized dogs and is a great little watch dog, protective of his home, gentle and playful with children.

In the last 15 years, the Eskie has increased in popularity, and registrations have been growing steadily.

Health Issues

The American Eskimo Dog breed is generally very healthy. However, like all breeds of dogs, some genetic health problems have been found in the breed, including Progressive Retinal Atrophy.

If you are considering the adoption of a American Eskimo dog puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)

Additional Health Resources:

Only Natural Pet Store

Breed Standards

Grooming Information

  • Grooming — This section of the Canada's Guide to Dogs website includes tips, articles and information covering all aspects of dog grooming along with a listing of Groomers from across Canada.

Training Resources

  • Training — For training information, see this growing section of the Canada's Guide to Dogs website for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.

Training Tools & Equipment
Choose from a wide variety of items from Dogwise.com



Additional Information

  • Clubs, Sports & Activities — For information on the many sports and activities you can get involved in with your dog.
  • Working Dogs — The Working Dogs section of the Canada's Guide to Dogs website provides information and listings of organizations that are involved in various dog jobs, such as Guide Dogs, Therapy Dogs, Police Dogs, Protection Dogs, and much more.

Select from the following links to view Breeder listings; Breed Clubs; Rescue Organizations; as well as Books and other Merchandise specific to the breed:

Breeders  /  Breed Clubs  /  Rescues  /  Books & More