American Eskimo Dog

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Living spaceApartment-friendly

  Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment13–15 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hip dysplasia · Patellar luxation · Progressive retinal atrophy

The American Eskimo Dog is a striking, snow-white spitz that once starred in travelling circuses walking tightropes, and it retains that bright, clever, showy character. It comes in toy, miniature and standard sizes, and it is intelligent, playful, alert and highly trainable — one of the more biddable spitz breeds — making it a superb trick and performance dog. That intelligence needs an outlet: an 'Eskie' wants daily exercise, mental stimulation and close involvement with its family, and a bored or lonely one becomes anxious, barky and destructive. It is a natural watchdog that will use its voice, so early socialisation and training to manage barking help. The fluffy white double coat sheds heavily and needs brushing a few times a week, more during seasonal 'blows'. Health-wise, buy from a breeder who screens hips and eyes, and be aware of the breed's tendencies: hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy, and dental disease, especially in the smaller sizes. Give an American Eskimo Dog exercise, training, mental challenge and family company, keep up dental and coat care, and this clever, sparkling performer will be a devoted companion for thirteen to fifteen years.

• How much exercise does a American Eskimo Dog need?

  High. Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• How much grooming does a American Eskimo Dog need?

  Brush a few times a week. Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Is a American Eskimo Dog suited to apartment living?

  Apartment-friendly. Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Is a American Eskimo Dog a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do American Eskimo Dog live?

  13–15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the American Eskimo Dog?

  Keep an eye out for Hip dysplasia, Patellar luxation, Progressive retinal atrophy. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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