American Eskimo

20-40 lbs
15-19"
Germany
Eskie, Miniature Eskimo Dog, American Eskimo Spitz

The American Eskimo, also widely known as an Eskie, is a small to medium-size Nordic-type dog and is bred in three sizes, Toy, Miniature, and Standard.  The Eskie has a bright white coat, distinctive black facial points on its nose, lips, and eye rims, and triangle-shaped ears that stand up.  The Eskie breed has a double coat consisting of a short undercoat and a long outer coat that stands off the body and require brushing twice a week to prevent matted hair.  Like other Spitz breeds, the American Eskimo loves running and requires daily exercise but is calm and well-mannered indoors.

purpose Purpose
farming, guarding
history Date of Origin
early 1900s
ancestry Ancestry
northern spitz

American Eskimo Health

Sketch of American Eskimo
Average Size
Male American Eskimo size stats
Height: 15-19 inches Weight: 20-40 lbs
Female American Eskimo size stats
Height: 15-19 inches Weight: 20-40 lbs
Major Concerns
  • Retinal Dysplasia
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Addison's Disease
Minor Concerns
  • Patellar Luxation
Occasional Tests
  • Eye
  • Blood
  • Knee
  • Hip X-Rays

American Eskimo Breed History

The American Eskimo dog, often referred to as “the beautiful dog” for its long soft coat, is a descendant of an ancient line of dogs extended as far back as the Stone Age, 6000 years ago.  Ancient as the bloodline is, this beautiful dog is a close relative of the German Spitz, whose character was first recorded in 1450 in Central Europe as being a valiant defender of homes and field.  Before World War I, the American Eskimo dog was known as the American Spitz, a close relative of the German Spitz.  However, growing anti-German sentiment in the first half of the 20th century made it necessary to alter the dog’s name to the American Eskimo; despite the dog not having any cultural or genetic links to American or Inuit culture.  Many believe the kennel name these dogs were bred in contributed to the name change. The Eskie close relative, the German Spitz, was originally bred as a watchdog for farmers.  The Spitz was not chosen for its aggression but its vocalization and ability to alert people to potential threats.  The American Eskimos, like its German cousin, is vocal and a capable watchdog but the Eskie was bred for entertainment.  Many American Eskimos first captured the hearts of Americans and European alike with their tricks and abilities and were featured in many traveling circuses as tightrope walking dogs. The American Eskimo is considered a small, white Spitz-type dog descendant of the German Spitz, white Keeshond, or possibly white Pomeranians that migrated with Europeans in the 19th century.  The breed was further distinguished from its cousins in 1917, earning its name as the American Eskimo, and was finally recognized by the American Kennel Club as its own breed in 1994 as a non-sporting dog.

American Eskimo Breed Appearance

The American Eskimo is a companion dog who embodies strength and agility as well as alertness and beauty; thus, well representing its moniker, “the beautiful dog.”  Overall, the American Eskimo is a compact canine, well balanced with a smooth gait.  His face is a Nordic type with black points and triangular-shaped ears.  Eskies have a keen, intelligent expression in their eyes, which are slightly oval shaped. The preferred coat color is pure white, though cream colored biscuit is accepted.  The Eskie’s coat consists of long soft guard hairs that grow through a dense undercoat to form the overcoat.  The American Eskimo is recognized in three sizes; the Toy, measuring 9 to 12 inches, the Miniature, measuring 12 to 15 inches, and the Standard, measuring 15 to 19 inches.  All classes have a ruff (mane), though this is more pronounced in the males, and all classes have a tail that curls at the buttock.

Eye Color Possibilities
brown American Eskimo eyes
Brown
amber American Eskimo eyes
Amber
Nose Color Possibilities
black American Eskimo nose
Black
brown American Eskimo nose
Brown
Coat Color Possibilities
fawn American Eskimo coat
Fawn
white American Eskimo coat
White
Coat Length
coat
Short Medium Long
Coat Density
coat density
pin
Sparse Normal Dense
Coat Texture
coat texture
American Eskimo straight coat texture
Straight Wiry Wavy Curly Corded

American Eskimo Breed Maintenance

The American Eskimo requires frequent brushing because they have fluffy white colored fur that sheds a lot.  It is best to brush your American Eskimo two to three times a week to prevent matting and keep his hair well feathered.  The American Eskimo’s fur contains oil that prevents dirt from adhering to it so frequent brushing will also help keep your dog clean. The American Eskimo’s skin is very sensitive and bathing may irritate the skin.  Baths should only be given once every couple of months and depending on how dirty the dog is.  However, since American Eskimos are prone to eye issues and tear staining, you should clean their eyes often.  While grooming, always check your dog’s ears for dirt and possible infection.  You may use a pH-balanced ear cleaner at the recommendation of your veterinarian to help keep your American Eskimo’s ears healthy. The American Eskimo is a very active dog and requires daily exercise.  The dog was bred as a watchdog for cooler climates and does very well outside though its size makes it well suited for small spaces.  The American Eskimo is a versatile dog capable of living in any climate and any space as long as it can get daily exercise and socialization. The diet of American Eskimo dogs is much the same as other small and medium-sized breeds but be mindful of your dog’s reaction to any foods.  The American Eskimo may be allergic to some food, like salmon and some veterinarians have advised against rawhide chews.

Brushes for American Eskimo
Pin Brush
Pin Brush
Dematter
Dematter
Comb
Comb
Deshedder
Deshedder
Nail Clipper
Nail Clipper
Brushing Frequency
fur daily fur weekly fur monthly
American Eskimo requires daily brushing
Daily Weekly Monthly

American Eskimo Temperament

American Eskimo dogs are among some of the most loving dogs and are very smart.  These dogs were bred to be outgoing and non-aggressive and will vocalize to announce a stranger but rarely bite or snap at anyone.  They are eager to please and love to run; however, they are more biddable than most of their Spitz cousins. Though the breed has high energy to burn outside the American Eskimo is well-mannered inside, and is good with children and cats but may chase smaller pets, like birds, hamsters, or gerbils.  Their puppy behavior phase last two years, nearly one full year longer than most breeds, but these dogs are very trainable and outgoing. The American Eskimo is a companion dog and requires more positive attention than other breeds.  Long periods of separation may lead to anxiety, and your Eskie may bark excessively or develop an inappropriate chewing behavior.  Overall, the American Eskimo is a beautiful, intelligent, and active dog suited for any loving home.

Activity Level
low activity medium activity high activity
Low Medium High
Rec. Walk Mileage Per Week
7 miles
walk mileage
Minutes of Activity Per Day
60 minutes
activity minutes

American Eskimo Popularity

Popularity ranking
#122
Popular Hybrids
Cock-A-Mo
American Eskimo
Cocker Spaniel
Cock-A-Mo
Coton Eskimo
American Eskimo
Coton de Tulear
Coton Eskimo
Eskenji
American Eskimo
Basenji 
Eskenji
Eskijack
American Eskimo
Jack Russell Terrier
Eskijack
Cav-A-Mo
American Eskimo
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cav-A-Mo

American Eskimo Food Consumption

Cups Per Day
2.5 cups
cup per day cost cup per day cost
Daily Cost
$1.75 - $2.25
food bowls daily cost
Monthly Cost
$52.50 - $67.50
food bag monthly cost

American Eskimo Height & Weight

6 Months
Sketch of American Eskimo at six months
Male American Eskimo size stats at six months
Height: 12.0 inches Weight: 14.5 lbs
Female American Eskimo size stats at six months
Height: 12.0 inches Weight: 14.5 lbs
12 Months
Sketch of American Eskimo at 12 months
Male American Eskimo size stats at 12 months
Height: 14.0 inches Weight: 22.5 lbs
Female American Eskimo size stats at 12 months
Height: 14.0 inches Weight: 22.5 lbs
18 Months
Sketch of American Eskimo at 18 months
Male American Eskimo size stats at 18 months
Height: 17.0 inches Weight: 30.0 lbs
Female American Eskimo size stats at 18 months
Height: 17.0 inches Weight: 30.0 lbs

Top American Eskimo Breeders

Check out who made our list for the most reputable American Eskimo breeders of 2024.
Top American Eskimo breeder Fuji American Eskimos
Fuji American Eskimos
Woodstock, Illinois
Top American Eskimo breeder Wright's American Eskimos
Wright's American Eskimos
Troy, Missouri
Top American Eskimo breeder Canyon Creeke Ckies
Canyon Creeke Ckies
Mapleton, Utah
Top American Eskimo breeder Shalom Kennels
Shalom Kennels
San Antonio, Texas
Top American Eskimo breeder Voyage Eskies
Voyage Eskies
Kelso, Washington
Top American Eskimo breeder Bulach's American Eskimos
Bulach's American Eskimos
Hamilton, Ohio
Top American Eskimo breeder Fissan Kennel
Fissan Kennel
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Top American Eskimo breeder Mystic American Eskimos
Mystic American Eskimos
Woodinville, Washington
Top American Eskimo breeder Banaer American Eskimos
Banaer American Eskimos
Houston, Texas
Top American Eskimo breeder Alpine American Eskimos
Alpine American Eskimos
Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania

American Eskimo Owner Experiences

Koko
2 Years
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walk-in
Walking and little bit play
I’m in love with my boy koko
2 years, 5 months ago
Ruby Hills
3 Months
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Play
Walk
Ruby is such a sweet girl, she’s my first fur baby and I love her so much!, she loves me too and protects me lol...look forward to more years together 🥰😍
2 years, 7 months ago
Casper
3 Years
1 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Eating Snacks
Fetch
He’s amazing. Grew up around people and other pets but I just can’t get him to agree with strangers in the house.
2 years, 7 months ago
Kippu
1 Year
5 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
my dogs is my best friend i love her so much
3 years, 1 month ago
8 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Sniffing
Despite a cloud-like coat, this American Eskimo always wants to roll around in the mud! Stubborn, yet very friendly and always willing to walk.
6 years, 10 months ago
2 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walk
Play
I've walked an American Eskimo a few times, and I love him! He's so sweet, friendly, and well-behaved. He now has a new puppy brother and is so good with him as well.
6 years, 10 months ago
4 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fetch
Tug-of-war
Run
Eskimos are great! All the Eskimos that I've met and walked have been super friendly! They're easy to train, and very obedient. They're super energetic dogs, and require lots of exercise.
6 years, 10 months ago
3 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Neko has become my favorite regular client. She is so animated when I come to get her and it just makes my day every time. She is so happy to see me she jumps up and down and makes very happy barks. She is well trained and good on the leash and knows a few tricks too. I also had the opportunity to play fetch with her after the walk and she puts the ball right in my hand.
6 years, 10 months ago
3 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
walking fast
Jumping
Sniffing
I remember I walked a girl. she was extremely very happy! always jumping around me to lick my face. Always moving forward on the walk. Happy to be outside, sniffing every single bush, although very hard to go to the bathroom, took us till the end of the walk for her to take care of business, think she was to exited to do so.
6 years, 10 months ago
2 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Shake
Walk
Playing with sticks and walking briskly
She was extremely well trained. She seemed to love on her sister whom she always followed closely behind. It seems that American Eskimo dogs have a ridiculously high capacity to learn, love, pay attention and even detect danger. I've gone on multiple walks with her at this point, each time we make it further than I ever expected. American Eskimos have lots of energy to burn and benefit from direction and a firm tone when speaking. They respond well to affirmation and treats. They also seem to form close relationships with other pups and seek them out as friends or leaders. I was very impressed with this breed and would definitely consider this pup as my daughter's next dog!
6 years, 10 months ago
13 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Eating Snacks
Nap
The one American Eskimo I walked was extremely timid. It took very long for him to warm up. He was always shaking. He feared loud noises and other dogs as well. His trust was always gained with treats and lots of petting once he smelled me. He was definitely house broken very well. He liked to hide in small and dark places like under chairs and in closets. His coat was beautiful but he shed very much. I always left with hair on my clothing. I imagine it takes a lot of upkeep to keep it as white and fluffed out as it was. He liked to sit by the water at the pier and feel the breeze. He was always relaxed at those moments. He was not a strong puller or difficult to walk at all, just timid, observant and extremely cautious. Overall, he was very sweet.
6 years, 10 months ago
3 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
Playing
The dog I walked was absolutely beautiful and energetic! He walked very well on leash and he loved interacting with other dogs. Their beautiful coat comes at a price as grooming is completely necessary in order to keep a happy pup! They have thick but fine long coats that need brushing. They shed like crazy and just petting one will have you covered in white fur! They're very good walkers and enjoy being outside, especially in the snow! Because of their coats, this dog would do better in colder climates. The thickness protects against frigid winds and would be too hot for warmer areas. If you do live in warmer areas, making sure your dog gets plenty of water and shade is key to keeping a happy pup!
6 years, 10 months ago
3 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
chasing squirrels
barking
Walk
American Eskimos are super fluffy and snuggly! They're a lot of fun to pet and hug because they're pretty much a living cotton ball. The American Eskimos that I have known have been quite vocal. They like to bark at the door when they hear people coming, they like to bark at new people that they meet, and they really like to bark at squirrels! But I wouldn't describe their voices as "yappy" just chatty. The American Eskimos that I've walked have both had pretty consistent routines and they seem to thrive with this type of set-up. They're easy to train once they get into their routine! American Eskimos can be a bit of the princess type, but they work it so well and are absolutely adorable.
6 years, 10 months ago
Aspro
10 Years
4 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
trekking
It was a gift for my mother - and it quickly became a part of the family. Very easy-going and healthy breed!
4 years, 5 months ago
Book me a walkiee?
Pweeeze!
Sketch of smiling australian shepherd