<C>Height:</C> 15 to 19 inches (male); 14 to 18 inches (female).
<C>Weight:</C> 20 to 40 pounds.
<C>Size:</C> Medium.
<C>Availability:</C> May take some effort to find.
<b>History:</> No one knows exactly when and how the American Eskimo originated. However, the American Eskimo is one of the Spitz family of Nordic breeds, and is possibly related to the White German Spitz, Samoyed and White Keeshond. Evidence suggests that "White Spitz" dogs were first brought to the United States by German settlers. A couple named Hall, in 1913, was the first to register the breed with the UKC. Their kennel name was "American Eskimo" which became the name of the breed. The American Eskimo was spread throughout the United States by the Barnum and Bailey Circus; Stout's Pal Pierre was the first dog ever to walk a tight rope. The North American Eskimo Dog Association was formed in 1969, and the stud book was closed. The American Eskimo Dog Club of America formed in 1985 for the purpose of achieving AKC recognition. This goal has now been achieved. As of July 1, 1995, the American Eskimo was formally recognized by the AKC.
<b>Description:</> Beautiful, snowy white Spitz-type dog--looks like a miniature Samoyed. There is also a Miniature variety, 12-15 inches high (males), 11-14 inches (females) and 10-20 pounds and a Toy variety. The American Eskimo has a wedge-shaped head, prick ears, and a heavily plumed tail curled over the back. The profuse coat is pure white with black points. Some cream markings are permitted. The coat is heavy around the neck, creating a ruff or mane, especially in males. The coat is surprisingly easy to care for. A weekly brushing is generally quite satisfactory.
<b>Notes:</> Naturally wary of strangers. One Eskimo owner says, "No stranger can enter our home until we've told our Eskies it's okay." This breed should be thoroughly socialized when young to avoid potential aggression-related accidents. Eskimos need to be part of the family and engage in nuisance activities when isolated. Handle them gently, but firmly. This breed needs attention and loves to bark. The American Eskimo has been exploited by pet shops selling inferior quality animals with poor temperaments and other serious problems. Buy only from a reputable breeder.
<b>Personality:</> Charming, affectionate and loving. Hardy and playful. Highly intelligent and willing to please. Alert. Easily trained; often ranks among the top scorers in obedience trials. Some individuals have a willful streak, but most like to work. Dogs whose ancestry displays nervousness, hyperactivity or viciousness should not be bred.
<b>Behavior:</>
<C>Children:</C> Excellent with children.
<C>Friendliness:</C> Moderately protective.
<C>Trainability:</C> Very easy to train.
<C>Independence:</C> Moderately dependent on people.
<C>Dominance:</C> High.
<C>Other Pets:</C> Generally good with other pets.
<C>Combativeness:</C> Not generally dog-aggressive.
<C>Noise:</C> Likes to bark.
<b>Grooming and Physical Needs:</>
<C>Grooming:</C> A little grooming needed.
<C>Trimming & Stripping:</C> No trimming or stripping needed.
<C>Coat:</C> Fluffy coat.
<C>Shedding:</C> Average shedder.
<C>Exercise:</C> Moderate exercise needed.
<C>Jogging:</C> A good jogging companion.
<C>Indoors:</C> Very active indoors.
<C>Apartments:</C> Will be OK in an apartment if sufficiently exercised.
