Overview
The American Eskimo Dog is a companion Spitz with a thick white double coat and a plumed tail curled over its back. It comes in three sizes: toy, miniature and standard.
Its ancestors were German Spitz, and it was renamed during the anti-German feeling of the First World War. It has long been a watchful family dog and a showy performer.
History
Small Spitz dogs of northern Europe developed into the German Spitz breeds, and immigrants brought them to the United States in the early 1900s. They were related to the Keeshond, white Pomeranian and Volpino Italiano.
Around the First World War, owners began calling them American Spitz, and the dogs became circus favourites, with some famous tightrope walkers. The United Kennel Club recognised the breed in 1919, and the American Kennel Club followed in 1995.
Appearance
Toy dogs stand about 22 to 30 cm, miniatures 30 to 40 cm and standards 38 to 50 cm, weighing from roughly 2 kg up to about 18 kg. The coat is thick and straight with a ruff around the neck and shoulders, and the heavily furred tail curls over the back. Most are white; biscuit markings are also accepted.
Temperament
Bright, alert and eager to please, the American Eskimo Dog is a lively companion and a good watchdog. It is quick to learn tricks and enjoys being involved in family life.
It can be reserved with strangers and tends to bark to announce visitors.
Care and exercise
It needs daily walks, play and mental stimulation, and it thrives with training games and tricks. Its double coat needs regular brushing, with heavier work during seasonal shedding.
Do not shave the coat, and keep it company, as it dislikes long periods alone.
