American Eskimo Dog
Although the lavish coat of the American Eskimo Dog gives the impression of a weather-tolerant dog, the dog has a strong desire for human companionship and is not suitable for outdoor accommodations. This is a dog that thrives on being a member of the family and takes his duty as watchdog very seriously. So devoted is he, that socialization and training may be required to avoid problems with over-protectiveness or excessive barking.
Eskies, as they are affectionately called, are very loyal and loving to their human pack and even enjoy the company of well-behaved children. As an energetic and playful dog, they make excellent companions for a moderately active family that can give them the attention they crave. Although naturally reserved with strangers, they will make friends quite readily when allowed to approach new relationships at their own pace.
The American Eskimo Dog is a small to medium-sized dog with a thick, double-coat of pure white hair. The hair is thicker on the neck and chest to produce a lion-like mane, and the profusion of hair on the rump and hind legs are often referred to as breeches. The heavily plumed tail is carried over the back. The head is perpetually alert with erect, triangular ears and sharply contrasting black points (lips, nose and eye rims). The overall appearance is one of a beautiful, agile dog that is well balanced, smooth moving and compactly built.
There are three different size classifications for the dog determined by the height at the withers. The Toy is 9-12 inches tall, the Miniature is over 12 inches up to 15 inches, and the Standard is over 15 inches up to 19 inches. Dog Breeders for the American Eskimo Dog can be found in the US from Georgia to Illionois and elsewhere.
Head – Dark, slightly oval eyes are set on a wedge-shaped head, and perched ears blend softly into the crest of fur surrounding the face. The muzzle and skull are approximately the same length to create pleasing proportions, and the short, smooth facial hair helps to accentuate the dark-colored points of the face.
Body – The body is about the same length as the height of the dog, with a broad, level back and sufficient muscling throughout. This is a strong, compact dog with a bold, energetic trot.
Coat/Color – Pure white is the most desirable color, although some cream shading is permissible. The hair should be thick and straight with slightly longer hair around the neck to create a ruff, on the feathering of the legs, and on the abundantly endowed tail.
Disqualifications
An Eskie will be disqualified from the show ring if it does not fit within the specified size requirements, has blue eyes, or is any color other than pure white or biscuit cream.
