American Eskimo

Life Expectancy: 13 – 15 years
Dog Breed Group: Companion Dogs
Weight: 20 – 30 lbs.
Height: 15 – 19 inches

Where Does the American Eskimo Rank?

See where this beloved breed ranks in comparison to other breeds in 7 key categories.

Trainability

The Eskie requires an owner who is equally as strong-willed as her. With a strong-willed owner, training is relatively simple. If the owner is not strong-willed, the training process may prove difficult.

Shedding Friendliness

The Eskie is a heavy shedder. If not brushed properly, you may find large amounts of fur throughout your home.

Ease of Grooming

The Eskie requires brushing a minimum of three times per week to maintain a healthy coat and skin.

Health

American Eskimos are prone to many health risks like cataracts, bladder stones, allergies and epilepsy.

Exercise Needs

The Eskie has a large amount of energy and must be exercised vigorously several times per day to avoid the development of behavioral problems.

Good with Children

The Eskie is an excellent family dog and absolutely adores children. The Eskie is affectionate with all of the other family pets as well.

Barking Restraint

Barking may become a problem with this breed. The Eskie is known to be a big ‘barker’. Teaching your dog when to and when not to bark will assist with those who bark excessively.

What You Need to Know About American Eskimos

Behavior

The American Eskimo dog, also known as Eskies, are known for his spunky, clever personality. He is suspicious of unfamiliar people resulting in excellent watchdog capabilities. This dog becomes very attached to his family and, as a result, may develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time.

The American Eskimo dog must have regular, frequent opportunities for exercise to prevent the development of behavorial problems. Eskies are extremely energetic and are always ready for a new adventure. Vigorous exercise several times per day is highly recommended.

Training

The American Eskimo dog is strong-willed, patient owner throughout training. He does learn quickly with a strong-willed owner though, so training is relatively simple when done properly.

Grooming

The American Eskimo dog is known for his white, fluffy coat. The coat requires a double undercoat and a long outer coat. Eskies shed significantly and must be brushed frequently to avoid finding large amounts of fur all over the home. A thorough brushing three times per week is recommended.

Health Problems

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease – LCP is another joint condition. In LCP, the blood supply in the head of the femur is decreased whu/ich may result in limping. This condition is often seen in Eskies between four and six months old, any may be repaired via surgery resulting in normal, healthy dog.

Hip Dysplasia – common in many large dog breeds. Hip dysplasia occurs when the ball and socket do not fit together properly.

Juvenile Cataracts – Juvenile cataracts are often hereditary and may be seen in Eskies under six years of age. When adopting an Eskie, ask the breeder if the puppies have been certified by the Canine Eye Registration Foundation.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy – PRA is a degenerative eye disorder which may lead to blindness. Fortunately, PRA is often detected years before the blindness occurs.

Top 10 Most Common Health Issues for American Eskimos

1. Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
2. Pyoderma – a bacterial infection of the skin
3. Progressive Retinal Atrophy – can lead to blindness
4. Cataracts
5. Allergies – skin allergies
6. Urinary Stones
7. Hip Dysplasia
8. Hypothyroidism – an abnormality of the thyroid hormone
9. Luxating patella – loose kneecaps
10. Epilepsy – seizures