11 Wonderful Facts about American Eskimo Dogs

First of all, I would like to thank White Dog Diary Online and Teddy and Sierra from Teddy's Tales for lending me their pictures to represent the breeds awesomeness on this post.

Thank you, White Dog Army, for letting me use your pictures

So with no further ado, let's get to business and talk about the breed that we all know as the "Eskies".

1. Though the documentation on this breed's origin and purpose is not clear, American Eskimo dogs come from the Spitz family. Their cousins include the Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky, Samoyed, Chow Chow, Keeshond and Pomeranian.

2. The American Eskimo's most important role is to be a family pet. They prefer being a part of the family rather than being banished in a yard. They're also very affectionate and loyal.

3. Their outstanding physical characteristics are erect pointed ears, double coats and moderate body proportion.  Oh, I forgot to mention their OH-SO-WHITE coat.

4.  The first American Eskimo dogs were registered in UKC back in 1913 but the breed's standards was officially adopted during the 1970s.

5. A typical Eskie is alert, quick-witted, obedient and bright. They can also be mischievous and very playful.

Courtesy of Teddy and Sierra's Mom. I truly appreciate your response on my email.

6. They are exceptional watchdogs, but their looks says otherwise (With such a cuteness overload, I'm not surprised!). 

7. Eskies can take a while to warm up to strangers so socialization should be started as early as possible.

8. Most common behavioral issues include excessive barking and digging. They can also be shy and hyperactive.

9. Dirt and mud rarely cling on their fur because of its texture. They shed dander at a minimal and are also relatively resistant to matting. Brushing should be done once or twice a week. 

10. Males experience extreme shedding once a year while unfixed females do so twice. Males are also slightly larger. Female Eskies look more delicate but after their estrus cycle, they will shed profusely for approximately 3 weeks.

11. The average lifespan of an Eskie ranges from 12 to 14 years.  Although they're a typically healthy breed, Eskies can be prone to progressive retinal atropy, hip dysplasia and patellar luxation.

Are you an American Eskimo Dog person? Here's a summary of the breed's rating. (Reference: A Complete Pet Owner's Manual: American Eskimo Dogs)

Affection - 3/4

Cold Tolerance - 4/4

Energy Level - 3/4

Ease of Training - 4/4

Exercise Requirement - 3/4

Friendliness to Strangers/ Dogs/ Other Pets - 2/4

Grooming - 3/4

Heat Tolerance - 1/4

Watchdog Ability - 4/4

Protection Ability 1/4