American Eskimo Dog - Appearance & Grooming
Dog Breeds
Introduction
Appearance & Grooming of the American Eskimo Dog Breed: There are three classes of Eskies: toy, miniature and standard, and they range in size from 9 to 19 inches tall and weigh from 6 to 30 pounds. Their double coat sheds year round and requires regular brushing.
Read More >
Appearance
Many people think that American Eskimo Dogs are miniature Samoyeds. They have a similar look, but the Eskimos are a breed all their own. They are compact dogs who come in three sizes: toy, miniature and standard. All three versions have the same physical characteristic: wedge-shaped heads, erect triangular ears, fluffy white coats, and large, plumed tails that rest or curl across the dog's back. Their eyes are brown and they have stark white eyelashes, and their toenails are also white. An Eskie's coat is always white or white with cream markings.
Size and Weight
American Eskimo Dogs come in three sizes: toy, miniature and standard. The toy breed ranges in height from 9 to 12 inches at the shoulder and usually weighs in at about 10 pounds at maturity. Miniature Eskimos stand between 12 and 15 inches at the shoulder and weigh around 20 pounds. Standard sized Eskimos are from 15 to 19 inches at the shoulder and weigh in at about 30 pounds at maturity.
Coat and Color
The American Eskimo dog comes in two colors: white and white with biscuit cream. They have a dense undercoat and a long topcoat that combines to create an overall fluffy coat which sheds year round. The hair is stick-straight and does not curl or wave. Eskimos are fluffy all over, but they boast a pronounced ruff of fur at the neck and the fur on the tail is also very pronounced.
Grooming Needs
American Eskimo Dogs have thick double coats that sheds 365 days a year and completely blows twice a year. But despite the shedding and the white fur, their coats are very easy to maintain. Brushing is required at least twice per week in order to cut down the amount of fur left around the house and to keep the dog's coat from matting. The oils in the dog's fur act as natural dirt repellants, and brushing also helps to keep the dog clean. This breed only requires bathing a few times per year – frequent bathing can strip the natural oils from the body and cause their skin to become very dry and irritated. Eskies have sensitive skin, and if owners opt to shave their dog in the summer months, care is required to prevent sunburn. Eskimos do not require trimming or stripping of the coat.
Additionally regular ear cleanings, teeth cleanings and nail clippings are required for both health and appearance.
Pictures
Temperament & Personality