Eskimo Spitz, American Spitz, German Spitz, Eskie
Overview
The Eskie is built along classic Nordic lines, a form that has proved effective at pulling heavy loads through snow and ice. It is compactly built, slightly longer than tall. The stand-off, double coat resists soaking and provides insulation against the cold. The small thick ears are also cold-resistant. The breed's smaller size has moved it from the realm of sled dog, but it remains a sled dog in miniature. Its trot is agile and bold. The expression is keen and alert.
The American Eskimo is bright, eager to please, lively and fun-loving — in short, an enjoyable and generally obedient companion. True to its spitz heritage, it is independent and tenacious and loves to run, especially in cold weather. But it is among the most biddable of spitz breeds, and it is calm and well-mannered inside. It is good with children, other dogs, and pets and is generally outgoing to everyone.
| Size | Small to Medium |
| Height | Toy: 9-12 inches (22-30 cm)Miniature: 12-15 inches (30-40 cm) Standard: 15-20 inches (49-50 cm) |
| Weight | Toy: 6-10 pounds (3-5 kg)Miniature: 10-17 pounds (5-8 kg) Standard: 18-35 pounds (8-16 kg) |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Colors | White White & Biscuit |
| Origin | United States Germany |
| Classification | Purebred |
| Good Lapcat |
| Good In Apartments |
The American Eskimo will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. It is very active indoors and a small yard will be sufficient. |
| Good With Children |
Good with Kids: This is a suitable breed for kids and is known to be playful, energetic, and affectionate around them. |
| Good With Dogs |
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| Good With Cats |
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| Exercise Needs |
The American Eskimo Dog (Toy) requires less exercise than the standard breed, but should be given the occasional workout or walk. Provide plenty of water and shade during exercise to avoid overheating from the heavy coat. The American Eskimo Dog (Miniature) requires less exercise than the standard breed, but should be given the occasional workout or walk. Provide plenty of water and shade during exercise to avoid overheating from the heavy coat. The American Eskimo Dog (Standard) needs a good workout every day and should be taken for a long jog or walk. Provide plenty of water and shade during exercise to avoid overheating from the heavy coat. Eskies enjoy dog sports. Without interaction they may become bored and destructive. |
| Trainability |
Moderately Easy Training: American Eskimo Dogs learn quickly and are eager to please. Harsh training techniques are not appropriate. American Eskimo Dogs should be trained early in life. Obedience training is recommended. |
| Affectionate |
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| Playfulness |
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| Grooming Requirements |
Moderate Maintenance: With a dense undercoat and a longer outer coat of guard hairs they are heavy shedders. Weekly brushing is recommended to control shedding and keep the Eksie’s coat neat and free of mats. Trim nails on a regular basis to keep their feet in good condition. Check their prick ears regularly for any accumulated dirt, wax or debris that make get stuck in their thick hair that covers the ears. Teeth should be brushed regularly. |
| Shedding |
Constant Shedding: Expect this dog to shed frequently. Be prepared to vacuum often. Brushing will reduce shedding as well as make the coat softer and cleaner. |
| Vocalization/Barking |
Frequent |