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American Eskimo Dog

Despite its name, this dog is not descended from working sled dogs, but has been selectively bred as a companion dog from the medium-sized Nordic (Spitz) breeds.  Around the turn of the twentieth century its intelligence, agility, and quickness to learn made this breed a common sight in circuses in the United States, where it was much favored by circus performers.

Breed Category

Non-Sporting Dog

Temperament

American Eskimo Dogs are alert and intelligent animals that make excellent guard dogs and are usually tolerant with children.  Although these dogs are protective of their home and family, they generally will neither bite nor display aggressive behavior.

Appearance

American Eskimo Dogs are handsome, luxuriant, white animals.  They have elegant, finely featured heads, topped by small, erect, well-furred ears.  The dense, soft undercoat is topped by a thicker, profuse, straight topcoat, which forms a distinct ruff around the neck.  The body is compact and elegant, and the tail is carried curled over the back.  The head has a tapered muzzle, black, oval eyes with black rims, and a black nose.

Size:    Height at withers-- Toy: 9-12 in;  Miniature: 12-15 in;  Standard: 15-19 in 

Weight:    Proportion to height  

Exercise Requirements:    Moderate

Grooming Requirements:    Considerable

Life Expectancy:    12-13 years

Things to Consider

1. Shedding can be a nuisance

 

Source

Information taken from "DOGS: An Owner's Guide"

Writer and Editor: Helen Stillwell

Photo taken from www.akc.org