Facts & Origin
No, this dog does not come from the Arctic Circle, but is a German Spitz that emigrated to the USA.
The origin of the American Eskimo Dog
European emigrants brought the German Spitz to America. Due to their alert nature, they first developed into sought-after guard dogs for farms. Later the dogs came to the circus. The "American Spitz" was the most popular dog for show dressage at the beginning of the 20th century. This helped the animals to great sympathies and he became a sought-after family dog.
After World War II, people wanted to remove anything German from his name. Who exactly came up with the idea "American Eskimo Dog" is not handed down. Probably one wanted to give him this completely new origin to cover up his German roots as thoroughly as possible.
The breed is bred in three sizes in the USA today and still enjoys great popularity.
The breed characteristics of the American Eskimo Dog
Larger specimens (or "standard") of this dog are still considered excellent watchdogs today. Nothing escapes a Spitz! The "Miniature" and "Toy" varieties are popular as lap dogs, companion dogs, and family dogs.
In 1994, the American Kennel Club recognized and registered the breed as distinct. The FCI does not list this dog.
- goes back to the German Spitz
- in the sizes Standard, Minature and Toy
- guard, family and lap dog
- recognized by the AKC, but not by the FCI
| Alternate Name | American Spitz, American Eskimo |
| Origin | USA |
| Life expectancy | 12 - 15 years |
| Care requirements | high-maintenance |
| Activity level | average |
| FCI group | not recognised |
| AKC group | non-sporting group |
| KC group | not recognised |
Attitude, character and temperament of the breed
Character traits and nature of the American Eskimo Dog
Spitz are very attentive animals. They like to join their master and mistress, but always keep their own head. They can be strong in character and have great assertiveness. If they have confidence and know their place, they are cuddly and sweet.
The circus career of the American Eskimo Dog proves the extraordinary intelligence and willingness to learn of these animals.
- faithful and loyal to his people
- sometimes stubborn
- very intelligent
Character
Usage
Health and breeding information
Breeding, acquisition and keeping of the American Eskimo Dog
With us this dog is almost not to be found. Since there is a market for rare dogs, people have probably come up with the idea to sell lace as American Eskimo Dog rarities. So you have to be careful with offers for this dog.
Appearance and coat of the American Eskimo Dog
The American Eskimo Dog has remained a pure Spitz to this day and that is how he looks. He has fine long fur in pure white or creamy. He wears no markings and most of his physique disappears under the luxuriant and very fine coat.
The coat is much longer at the bib, especially in winter. He can form a dense undercoat and is well protected against the weather. The coat requires regular brushing.
The pointed muzzle, the upturned pointed ears and dark eyes are typical Spitz. The strongly hairy tail carries this dog rolled over the back.
- typical Spitz
- long coat in white or creamy
- needs grooming
Size, weight and life expectancy of the American Eskimo Dog
The American Eskimo Dog Standard is between 36 and 48 cm tall, weighing 8 to 16 kg.
The American Eskimo Dog Miniature has a withers height of 28 to 38 cm and a weight of 4.5 to 9 kg.
Only the American Eskimo Dog Toy makes a difference between the sexes. Males always stay below 30 cm in height at withers and females below 28 cm. The weight moves with both between 2.7 and 4.5 kg.
The life expectancy of these dogs is between 12 and 15 years.
| Fur length | long |
| Fur | flat coated |
| Ear shape | Standing Ears |
| Tail | rolled up |
| Anatomy | sporty |
| Size ♀ | 36 - 48 cm |
| Weight ♀ | 8 - 16 kg |
| Size ♂ | 36 - 48 cm |
| Weight ♂ | 8 - 16 kg |
| Suitable For | - |
