American Eskimo Breed Guide
Formal breed name: American Eskimo Dog
Also known as: Eskie, American Spitz
Fluffy and alert, American Eskimo Dogs are intelligent spitz breeds whose striking white coats match their bright, engaging personalities.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Toy/small/medium
Weight
2-18 kg
Lifespan
12-15 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Only with older kids
Shedding
High
Size
Toy/small/medium
Weight
2-18 kg
Lifespan
12-15 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Only with older kids
Shedding
High
About American Eskimos
Despite its name, the American Eskimo Dog actually descended from European spitz breeds brought to America by German immigrants in the early 1900s. Originally known as the German Spitz, the breed name was changed during World War I due to anti-German sentiment.
Available in three sizes (toy, miniature, and standard), American Eskimos are characterised by their pure white double coat, erect triangular ears, and distinctive black points on the nose, lips, and eye rims. These dogs gained popularity performing in travelling circuses, where their intelligence and trainability made them natural entertainers.
American Eskimos are alert, friendly dogs that make excellent watchdogs while remaining good with children. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom-related behaviours. Their thick coat sheds year-round and requires regular brushing. While generally healthy, potential concerns include hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease.
Complete Care Guide for American Eskimos
Expert advice on keeping your American Eskimo healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Providing optimal nutrition for American Eskimo Dogs requires careful consideration of their unique size variations and energy requirements. With three distinct size categories—toy, miniature, and standard—these dogs need precisely tailored portions to maintain their ideal weight and support their active lifestyle.
A well-balanced diet rich in high-quality protein helps maintain their signature bright white double coat, while essential fatty acids contribute to healthy skin and lustrous fur. Regular monitoring of portion sizes proves crucial, as this breed can be prone to weight gain when overfed or insufficiently exercised.
Dietary requirements naturally evolve throughout their life stages. Puppies need nutrient-dense food to support growth, while adult dogs require balanced nutrition that matches their activity level. Senior American Eskimos often benefit from reduced calorie intake and enhanced joint support supplements, particularly if their exercise routine decreases with age.
Establishing a consistent feeding schedule and measuring portions helps prevent obesity-related health issues. Regular weight checks and body condition assessments ensure your American Eskimo maintains a healthy physique, supporting their natural agility and enthusiasm for physical activity.
How healthy is your American Eskimo?
A two minute quiz for your personalised results and health plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about American Eskimos from our community of pet parents
The American Eskimo is a friendly, outgoing, and highly intelligent breed. They are known for their energetic, playful, and sometimes mischievous nature. They are also loyal and protective, making them excellent watchdogs. Despite their high energy levels, they tend to be well-behaved and eager to please when given proper training and socialisation from an early age.