American Eskimo Dog

When you think of buying an American Eskimo Dog wrapped in its white fur, the first thing that fascinates you is a great snuggle. After all, who doesn’t crave warm hugs from the most adorable creature on the planet? EVERYONE!

Meanwhile, you are busy daydreaming about being curled up with your cotton candy in the blanket, and a serious question pops up in your mind and bursts the bubble: Are American Eskimo dogs hypoallergenic?

You might see an assortment of misleading information related to this query online and be unable to conclude. Lucky for you, I will disclose whether your most loved American Eskimo dogs are hypoallergenic or not. Shall I?

Are American Eskimo Dogs Hypoallergenic?

The simple and quick answer to this nerve-wracking query is NO!!!

If we look at the American Kennel Club’s recommendation of Hypoallergenic dog breeds, we don’t find the American Eskimos. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America:

“In the USA alone, 3/10 people with allergies develop some kind of allergic reaction to cats and dogs. The ratio of dog allergies is, however, smaller than the ratio of cat allergies.”

Are American Eskimo hypoallergenic dogs? This question often arises among potential dog owners, especially those who are allergy sufferers. The American Eskimo Dog, often called the American Spitz, is a breed that traces its roots back to German immigrants who brought their spitz breeds to the United States in the early 1900s.

Known for their thick, fluffy white coat, black eyes, and alert expression, these dogs come in three different sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. Despite their high intelligence and versatility in dog sports, American Eskimo Dogs are not considered hypoallergenic. Their thick coat makes them heavy shedders, which can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. While their intelligence and affectionate nature make them excellent companions, those with allergies should consider this aspect carefully.

Despite the potential for triggering allergies, the American Eskimo Dog breed remains popular in the United States for its high intelligence, which makes it responsive to training and able to excel in various dog sports. It is known for its standard size, which contributes to its robust health, though, like all breeds, it can have health issues.

Their intelligence and eagerness to please also make them ideal for families and active individuals. However, allergy sufferers must spend time around the breed before bringing one into your home. While they may not be the best fit for those with severe allergies, their loyal and loving nature makes them cherished companions for many.

What is Meant by Hypoallergenic Dogs?

Hypoallergenic means something (textile, cosmetic, or pet) compatible with allergic people. Simple! A dog breed that relatively has little chance to cause an allergic reaction is said to be hypoallergenic. When you are willing to add a furry family member to your home, keeping a hypoallergenic dog breed has many perks.

Like, say:

• You and your family members (if suffering from allergies) don’t have to take anti-allergic medications or precautions.
• For a dog owner, it becomes easier for the owner to maintain the pet.
• You and your pet can enjoy a happy and healthy relationship together.

What Makes a Dog Hypoallergenic?

A dog that is 100% free of allergens doesn’t exist. Every dog can carry some allergen. The amount may differ. The main factor that plays a vital role in making a dog breed hypoallergenic is its amount of shedding.

When a dog loses his hair, shed hair contains allergy-triggering elements, such as skin cells, saliva, and urine. What allergens those fallen hairs carry depends on where those hairs are shed from.

Afterward, these loose hairs go around everywhere in your home. As a result, the allergens scatter through the air, triggering allergies. Simply put, The smallest possible amount of shedding, or no shedding at all, makes a dog hypoallergenic.

Or, you may say

The less a dog breed sheds, the more hypoallergenic it is!

Do American Eskimo Dogs Shed?

 Talking about American Eskimo Dog shedding, I can only say they shed all year and seasonally. Everywhere they go, they leave their sparkling hair behind – insanely!

And, when the shedding season arrives, they shed like crazy. By shedding season, I mean the spring and the autumn months. This seasonal shedding occurs to prepare your Eskie for the upcoming season.

In spring, your American Eskimo Dog casts his hair off to change the layer of its coat that will keep him easy in the forthcoming summer. On the other hand…

Your Eskie must be fluffier in autumn to stay warm in the chilling winters. Whatever the season is to come, getting rid of their older hair becomes necessary for hairy dog breeds, like, American Eskimo dogs, to fight against the seasonal challenges.

Now, when an Eskie sheds, it can experience some dander formation on its skin. The dander builds up if your Eskimo’s skin has become dry and unhealthy. Dry skin massively provokes dander formation and can be a challenge to control.

Why are American Eskimo Dogs NOT hypoallergenic?

The same lustrous fur that makes an American Eskimo dog glamorous makes them non-hypoallergenic. The growing cycle of their fur completes fast. As soon as their hairs grow up, it gives a call to the fall-out cycle.

American Eskimo dogs have a double coat. A top coat to keep the moisture and elements at bay, and a thick undercoat to keep your furry warm in the cold weather. No doubt, it’s the beautiful coat that makes the Eskimos look adorable. But, an Eskie sheds A LOT.

When an Eskie gets rid of his older hair, it gives out some skin dander and other allergens. If you have an over-sensitive immune system and get in contact with these allergens, they’ll spark an allergic reaction. That’s why an American Eskimo dog doesn’t even come close to becoming a hypoallergenic dog breed.

Other Allergens in the American Eskimo Dog:

The main dog allergen that brings out allergies in humans is dander. Skin dander is dead skin on your furry’s coat that has become dry or unhealthy.

But as I mentioned earlier, it’s not the only issue. There are other allergens, too. These allergens—you should stay away from—are saliva and urine. You may wonder how saliva and urine can flare up allergies.

Whether it’s a non-hypoallergenic dog’s saliva or urine, both contain allergic protein that can initiate an allergic burst out. When a dog licks himself, sweats, or pees, that allergic protein ambles over the coat.

Now, when the culprit has made its way into your Eskie’s hair, it doesn’t matter how you come in contact with the allergic protein. You can interact with this allergy-causing protein directly while cuddling with your furry.

The other contact paths can be while grooming your dog, petting, or cleaning the dead hair.

American Eskimo Dog Skin Problems:

Dry skin can cause many skin problems in American Eskimo dogs. They can experience excessive scratching and irritation, which can result in infections and other skin problems, such as skin inflammation, hair loss, and hot spots.

●     Hair Loss:

American Eskimo dogs need their hair to retain their body temperature, especially in cold weather. If your Eskie starts losing his hair (other than shedding), it can lead to sunburn.

●     Excessive Itching:

Your dog may experience severe itching due to skin dryness or fleas. This excessive itching can further develop hot spots on your dog’s skin.

●     Allergies:

Your American Eskimo dog can also face allergies. Allergies can make your dog’s skin itchy and cause hot spots.

Shaving the American Eskimo Dog’s Coat:

Many Eskimo dog owners think shaving off the Eskie’s hair is the best solution to eliminate floating Eskie hair. That’s not the way out. Really!

If you are not up for cleaning up the shedding hair, don’t go for an American Eskimo dog. Keeping an American Eskimo dog shaved is the last thing you should do. Can I shave off my American Eskie’s hair if you ask? Sure, you can.

But… Here is a catch.

Shaving off any dog’s protective coat is not recommended. When an American Eskimo dog transitions from puppyhood to adult dog, his double-layer coat grows into two layers. The layer – grows as a smooth, thick, and insulating layer.

The top layer – grows as the water-resistant guard layer over the inner layer. If you let your Eskimo’s coat grow, it will hold its wholeness as a double-layer coat. The hair shed when refurbishment is required. Other causes may be coat maintenance and temperature control.

But once you shave off your pet’s hair to the skin, it will not grow back in the same manner again—never. This happens because your Eskimo’s hair follicles do not get the signal to re-grow in the same pattern. Now, the hair growth will happen randomly, mingling and mixing the inner soft layer with the outer guard layer.

Consequently, your Eskimo dog no longer has natural protection against harsh weather. So, shaving your American Eskimo dog is a major loss. Now, you are responsible for providing your Eskie with the required protection against sunburn, windburn, pests, and more.

4 Ways to Curtail Your American Eskimo’s Shedding Hair

Shedding is one of the most important parts of ANY dog’s life. It’s a way to eliminate older hair and allow new ones to grow.

If you want a solution to stop your American Eskimo’s shedding, I am sorry, there’s none. But should this shedding thing stop you from relishing the company of an Eskie? It’s a big no-no! So, instead of finding ways to end shedding, your focus should be on how to deal with this problem.

Although there’s no proven formula, the following ways can help you reduce your Eskie’s molting.

1.   Brushing:

If there is the easiest way to remove dead hair from your pet’s coat, it’s brushing. Besides clearing off the loose air, regular brushing stimulates the natural oils in your Eskie’s coat and promotes healthy fur growth.

2.   Vacuuming:

If you want an Eskie at your home, investing in a good vacuum cleaner will be wise. Let the vacuum cleaner suck all the Eskie hair spread in your home. Vacuuming your house often for a proper clean-up of dog hair will keep your home tidy and save you a lot of time.

3.   Bathing:

Eskies don’t require frequent bathing, but washing them up with a good dog shampoo will help clean older hair.

4.   Dietary Care:

Feed your American Eskimo with a high-quality diet that comprises high-quality ingredients. Plus, try keeping a balanced dietary routine for your Eskie. To design a good diet plan, you must consult your vet.

Good nutrition will not only reduce shedding but will also nourish a healthier coat.

 You may also go for some other ways to minimize your Eskimo’s dead hair. For example, administer natural shedding supplements and apply coconut oil or fish oil to your pet’s skin.

More Tips for Families with Allergies

An American Eskimo dog may cause dog allergy and other issues, but I have good news: if you can’t relinquish your desire to become an Eskie owner!

If you have mild allergies, you can own an Eskie BUT with immense precautions.

• Designate a peeing area for your Eskimo to urinate because their urine can contain allergy-triggering proteins.
• Drain out your Eskie’s energy with proper exercise and stimulation so he has no left stamina to walk around your home and spread dander.
• Grooming is the key. Schedule your Eskimo grooming sessions. Grooming helps to keep the dander and allergen build-up to a minimum.
• Always use a great quality slicker brush.
• Avoid brushing your Eskie’s coat during the shedding. Instead, use a de-shedding tool.
• Limit your dog’s access to areas where you’ll spend most of your time, like the bedroom and on the couch.
• Avoid using Eskimo in your kitchen, especially when cooking your meals.
• Wash your hands every single time you handle your Eskie.
• Including fish in your dog’s diet makes the dog’s skin healthy.
• Train your American Eskimo dog to stay in one place.
• Don’t neglect your medications, and plan medical check-ups.

Final Thoughts:

An American Eskimo dog is not hypoallergenic due to its heavy shedding. If you have an oversensitive immune system, an American Eskimo is not the dog for you. Why? If you get an Eskie, his hair will stick to everything in your home. You’ll never know where the allergen kicked off the allergic reaction—from the air? From the floor? Or from the couch.

However, if you don’t have a severe allergic problem, you can follow my tips and enjoy the Eskimo’s companionship.

The American Eskimo Dog, a member of the Spitz family, has a long history dating back to the early 20th century when German settlers brought them to the United States. Known for their striking appearance and playful nature, they have become popular circus dogs due to their high-energy disposition and intelligence.

These small to medium-sized breeds are not hypoallergenic, as their thick double coat sheds year-round, making them less suitable for allergy sufferers.

The American Eskimo Dog could be the right choice for families seeking a smart, high-energy dog. Their enthusiasm for daily runs and playtime ensures they stay in good condition, making them ideal pets for those who can keep up with their active lifestyle. Despite their small size, American Eskimo Dogs are robust and can be great companions for small children, given their playful and affectionate temperament.

Copyright CaninePals.Com. All Rights Reserved.

References and Further Reading:

[1] American Kennel Club, American Eskimo Dog Information.

Get the facts you need about the American Eskimo Dog breed at CaninePals.com! Learn practical tips, helpful advice, and fun facts about these beloved dogs.

An American Eskimo dog looks like an ultimate snow angel.  With an Eskie (the American Eskimo’s nickname), a cuddle or two is enough to melt your heart. The poofy Eskimo takes no time winning your love. SURE!

Still, many dog lovers want to know some interesting American Eskimo dog facts and relish their uniqueness. Well, American Eskimo dog facts are what I plan to uncover in this blog post.

Let’s start the fun.

7 Lesser-Known American Eskimo Dog Facts

So, here we are with the most exciting facts that every Eskie owner should know. I bet you’ll be glad you know the fun facts about your dream dog.

Here we go!

1.   They Own an Amazing Title

To celebrate and acknowledge the aesthetic beauty of the white Eskimo dog, their admirers rightly gave them an amazing title – “The dog beautiful”! What else could somebody call this snowy beauty, right?

2.   Their Origins are in Germany

Oh, so when you first read the name the American Eskimo Dog, you thought Eskies originated in America?

But let me correct you…

The ancestors of the American Eskimo Dog originated in Germany and were the descendants of German Spitz.

3.   Eskies were used as Herders and Guard dogs

Now everyone’s favorite family pets – American Eskies- were herders, livestock guards, and hunting dogs back then. No, they were never bred to be sled dogs, but they can surpass agility competitions.

4.   The Secret Reason behind their Popularity

Do you know what made American Eskimos so popular? Their entertaining agility stunts! In the late 19^th century, traveling circuses shot up the fame of the American Eskimo dogs. Eskies were easy to train and perform in the circus. Their snowy white coats made them sparkle in the spotlight and rock the circus. Thanks to their showy looks!

5.   Eskie – the First Dog to Walk a Tightrope!

You might have seen acrobats walking a tightrope. Right? But…

How in this world can a dog walk on a tightrope? It’s unbelievable! However, an American Eskie, Pierre left its admirers in awe by becoming the first dog to walk a tightrope. Woah! Pierre was America’s most performing dog in the 1930s.

6.   They have Three Distinct Sizes.

American Eskimos come in three sizes. Standard, miniature, and toy. And the standard size weighs no more than 35 lbs.

7.   They Come in Delicious “Biscuit” Colors.

Eskies come in amazingly cute colors. They either come in complete white color or white with biscuit color. “White with biscuit color?” You might wonder.

That means an Eskie has a white coat and a “biscuit” colored fur around the corners.

A Glimpse into American Eskimo Dog History

 In the early 1800s, when the German immigrants made their way to American shores, they left an ever-lasting Nordic impression in the upper Midwest.

They brought another incredible thing to America besides German-style food, culture, Lutheranism, and the brewing industry. You guessed that right; it was none other than – The nordic dog breed called German Spitz.

Later on, these little whiteys became the ascendants of modern Eskies. Here’s a detail of the breed’s working history.

On the Farms:

German Spitz were originally used as farm dogs. These farm dogs would keep the predators and strangers out of their territory there. Not only did these farm dogs have to recognize their dog breed, but they also had to differentiate between the invading livestock.

Arriving in the US:

When German settlers moved to the US, they resided in the Midwest, Southern Texas, and New England, which looked much similar to the German countryside. After settling in America, the Germans still used the ‘Spitz’ like they did in Germany.

Circus Life:

Spitz’s journey as the circus trick dog had begun in Germany since the breed was eye-catching, intelligent, and easily trained. The gypsies would teach their Spitz the tricks and invite the townspeople to watch. Subsequently, some of the circuses in Europe started using Spitz in their circus acts. In the late 19^th century, the American Eskimo dog ruled the traveling circuses.

A little on its official club registration now…

In 1913, the United Kennel Club (UKC) registered the breed named “Spitz.” Spitz is a German word that means “Sharp point.” These dogs were named Spitz because when they would become alert, their ears would stand erect like a sharp point. Also, these Spitz breeds are called Nordic breeds. Both of these terms are interchangeable.

America took up World War I in 1917, and later this entry latched on to a severe prejudice against every Teutonic thing. In 1925, the breed’s German name – American Spitz – was changed to American Eskimo Spitz. Afterward, in 1926, the German word “Spitz” was completely removed from the name.

This is how we came up with the new name of Eskies – American Eskimo! This new name was chosen to honor a Kennel Club of the same name located in Ohio. 1995 was the year when finally the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the American Eskimo Dog as a breed. But they did not separate the breed into its further sizes and varieties.

Thus, we find Eskimos in the Non-sporting group of the American Kennel Club (AKC). And in the Nordic group of the United Kennel Club (UKC).

American Eskimo Dog Characteristics

American Eskimo dog is a charming, perky, and playful dog. Eskies are a combination of beauty and energy at the same time! Their unique physical traits include a fox-like face, triangular black nose, pricking ear, pearly eyes (not fully round, slightly oval), and black to dark brown eye rims.

What adds more to their beauty?

Their white coat and a plumed tail – which he proudly and loosely carries above his back! Though the Eskimos have a stand-off coat, it’s thick, glossy, smooth, and straight. Apart from that, you’ll also see a ruff from his chest to the shoulders. That lion-like ruff is more prominent in Eskie males than females.

Moreover, the American Eskies are dogs choked full of energy. Always ready to take up mental challenges and vent out through exercising. If you leave an Eskie alone for long periods or don’t provide him the required exercise level, he’ll become destructive.

The way out?

Keep your snow mutt engaged. You can do so by providing him with a collection of interactive toys in a securely fenced yard. Another wise choice is to keep him in his crate.

I hope that makes sense!

The Size of American Eskimo Dog:

American Eskimos are small to medium-sized dogs. And they come in three size variations. Here is a lowdown of their three sizes and weights.

1. Standard – Height: 15 to 19 inches, Weight: 25 to 35 pounds
2. Miniature – Height: 12 to 15 inches, Weight 10 to 20 pounds
3.  Toy – Height: 9 to 12 inches, Weight: 6 to 10 pounds

American Eskimo Dog Personality

American Eskimos are highly social dogs. They love being a part of a family and enjoy companionship. They are so keen to delight their owners. It looks like it were the Eskies who invented the term “eager to please.”They didn’t just come up with the term. They ACTUALLY mean it!

Don’t let their warm coat fool you. Eskies are indoor dogs happy to bond with the people around them. They love to interact. In their puppyhood, they are the most playful pups you’ll see. When they reach above their middle age, they become calm, which is another level of cuteness!

An Eskie craves nothing but companionship and interaction. If you leave your furry alone too often (which you shouldn’t) and don’t have a healthy interaction, I am afraid your cute boy will become problematic out of boredom.

You know what…?

To own an American Eskimo dog, you must be confident. Only a sure-footed leader can become an Eskie in charge and accompany him. Eskies are fast learners. They can even learn by observing other dogs. Therefore, training an American Eskimo dog can be a pleasant experience.

Are American Eskies Smart?

American Eskies are a complete package of brain and beauty! So, they are smart, for sure. They have the instinct to please. And due to their quick and curious nature, Eskies are said to be smart doggies. Eskies are among the most trainable breeds. 

Teach them simple commands; they will master them. Train them for the most complicated tricks – like, walking a tightrope – they’ll get the hang of that too. Keeping their smartness in mind, the fact that American Eskies excelled at circus tricks is of little wonder.

How Much Do American Eskimo Dogs Shed?

American Eskimos have a double coat. The longer outer coat and a short, dense undercoat – below the outer coat! You’ll be surprised to know that despite their white coat color, Eskimos are extremely easy to keep clean. That’s so because their body produces oil that doesn’t let dirt cling to the fluffy’s fur.

However, American Eskimo dogs shed a lot. Almost constantly. You can thoroughly brush their fur to remove the dead hair before it spreads out. Brushing also will help detangle the fur. Above all, their fur’s upkeep is not a task you have to perform every day. Brushing only twice or thrice a week will suffice.

Do American Eskimo Dogs Smell?

Many dog owners are worried about that displeasing dog smell. But when considering an Eskie to be your companion, let this concern go aside. American Eskimos don’t smell unless they are VERY dirty. They love cold weather. However, they also fare well in other climates.

The Lifespan of American Eskimo Dogs

Another noteworthy thing American Eskimo Dogs are known for is their longevity.  Many Eskies have lived until their middle to late teens. However, the average lifespan of an American Eskimo dog is 13 – 15 years.

Health Problems

American Eskimos are relatively a healthy breed as compared to other dog breeds. But, of course, they are not completely free of health concerns.

Hip Dysplasia:

Hip Dysplasia is an inherited condition. In this condition, the thigh bone doesn’t fit in the hip joint. As your dog ages, this disease can further open the doors for arthritis.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA):

In this disease, the retina of the dog’s eye starts deteriorating. First off, a dog becomes night-blind. As the disease progresses, they may also lose sight during the day.

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease:

This desperate condition involves the dislocation of the hip joint. If your Eskimo dog has this condition, the blood supply to the head of the femur – the larger rear leg bone – is lessened. Hence, the head of the femur starts to lose unity with its main part. The symptoms of this condition are atrophy of the leg muscle and limping.

Juvenile Cataracts:

This eye disease is thought to be hereditary. You’ll find this health condition in normally younger Eskie pups under six years old!

The Average Price of an American Eskimo Pup

An American Eskimo pup’s range is between $700 and $1500. If we talk about the average price of a puppy less than six months of age it would be $1000.

Some factors that affect the ranges of Eskimo puppies are the following:

• A purebred or mixed
• Bloodline and breeder’s reputation
• Pedigree
• Medical expenses
• Training and Socialization expenses
• Popularity in the buyer’s location
• Age
• Coat color and markings

Quick American Eskimo Dogs Information and Facts

The American Eskimo Dog is a Nordic dog known for his white coat, black points (nose, lips, and rims of his eyes), and erect, triangular ears. He used to be a circus dog but today is mainly used as a companion and also participates in shows for agility, obedience, and conformity.

His double white coat has a dense, short undercoat that’s covered by longer hairs that protect his body and stand out from the body. His ancestors were the Keeshond, the German Spitz, the Italian Spitz, and the white Pomeranian.

This dog is alert, intelligent and friendly but also makes a great watchdog because he can fiercely protect his family and home. He’s a fast learner and keen to please.

He needs to exercise every day. As his coat sheds hair, it must be bathed and brushed regularly. The American Eskimo Dog has three types: standard, miniature, and toy. The sizes range down from 19 to 9 inches high from the shoulders.

Final Thoughts on American Eskimo Dog Characteristics:

The American Eskimo dogs are striking dogs with sweet expressions on their face. Love them, and they’ll love you back. Ask them to guard; they’ll do their duty.

Teach them some tricks, and they’ll stupefy you. Overall, this perky creature is enough to brighten your mood.

The best part?

Get an American Eskimo, and you won’t have to wait for the snow season to grab a snowball. Believe me; you’ll enjoy your Eskie more than the snow. Woo-hoo! I hope you enjoyed reading the American Eskimo dog facts. What was the most enticing fact you came to know? Tell me by dropping a quick comment below.

Have an Eskie-llent day!

Copyright CaninePals.Com. All Rights Reserved.

References and Further Reading:

[1] American Kennel Club, American Eskimo Dog Information.