The Standard American Eskimo is also frequently called simply Eskie. The name of the breed was changed from the American spitz to the American Eskimo after World War I, in order to eliminate any Germanic sounds.
This compactly built breed has the ideal features for pulling heavy loads on a snowy terrain. Also, this Nordic type dog is designed to be resistant to cold. The thick, small, triangular shaped ears and stand-off double coat offer insulation against cold and the coat resists soaking too. Other particular physical characteristics are the wedge-shaped head and the heavily plumed tail worn curled up over the back.
Owners will also be pleased by its outgoing nature. The Eskie especially loves running in its natural climate, cold weather. And if you have children, there is absolutely nothing to worry about, as these dogs have a gentle nature and are friendly towards kids, as well as other pets.
The Standard American Eskimo is famous for its watch dog abilities. Also, owners do not have to worry too much about their maintenance, as the Eskies have moderate grooming and exercise needs. Those wonderful coats of theirs require a combing and brushing two times a week, but while they are shedding, this should be done a bit more often.
For the larger ones, a good workout each day is quite enough, but keep in mind that the larger they are, the more exercise they require. These fluffy creatures simply love to play in the yard and enjoy a good jogging session. The larger ones can be safely kept outside in temperate and cool climates, but the smaller types do better inside.
This breed was created along classic Nordic lines and can be traced back to the early 1900s in the US. They were created as performers and companions. The Eskies' ancestor is the prototypical spitz, but the breed has influences from other spitz types like the:
- Pomeranian
- Volpino Italiano
- Keeshond
The spitz was developed in Germany, but these dogs came to America as pets brought by Europeans. The turning point in the Eskies history were the 1920s, when its ancestor, the American spitz, became a circus sensation. A lot of spectators left the circuses carrying puppies to take home.
The fluffy Standard American Eskimo offers its owners many rewards and satisfactions and requires so little in exchange!
