Appearance

The American Eskimo Dog is available in three sizes: toy (small), miniature (small) and standard (small-medium). A member of the Spitz-type family, the Eskie has a wedge-shaped head, a perfectly proportioned muzzle and skull, and erect triangular ears that compliment their alert expression. The shape of their eyes and mouth can give the impression they are smiling. Their thick, harsh topcoat grows up and through a soft undercoat, which creates a ruffed appearance that is more prominent around the neck. The coloring tends to be white or cream, or white with cream markings.

History

Descended from a host of white European spitzes—including the Keeshond, the Pomeranian, the German Spitz and the Italian Spitz—the American Spitz (as it was once called) probably came to the U.S. in the early 1900s with German immigrants. Popular as a circus dogs for their sparkly coats, trainability and nimbleness, the American Spitz grew in popularity. In 1917, their name was changed to American Eskimo, but it was not until 1985 that the American Eskimo Dog Club of America was formed. The AKC registered the breed in 1995.