The American Eskimo Dog is an agile, loving and beautiful Spitz-type companion dog. It is small to medium-sized and always white or cream-white. It comes in three sizes: toy, miniature and standard.
Character
It is intelligent, attentive and friendly. It is never overly shy or aggressive. It is a territorial dog.
Appearance
The eyes are slightly oval. They should be well spaced and neither slanted nor prominent. The color should be dark, and the eyelids are black or dark brown. The eyelashes are white. The ears should be proportionate to the head and triangular, slightly blunted at the tips, erect, well spaced and blending gently with the head. The skull is slightly wedge-shaped and broader between the ears. The stop is well defined, though not abrupt. The muzzle is broad, with a length less than or equal to that of the skull. The nose is black or dark brown, and the lips are thin and tight, black or dark brown. The jaw should be strong, with a complete set of teeth in a scissor or pincer bite. The neck is carried proudly erect, well set, medium in length and gracefully arched. The topline is level. The body is strong and compact, and the chest is deep and broad, with well-sprung ribs. The chest extends approximately to the level of the elbows. The back is straight, broad and muscular. The loin is strong and well muscled. The tail is moderately high-set and, when lowered, reaches approximately to the hock.The forequarters are well angulated. The shoulder is firmly attached and adequately muscled but not overdeveloped. The shoulder blades are well laid back and inclined at 45°. The legs are parallel, with strong and flexible pasterns inclined at approximately 20°. The length of the legs is proportional to the body. The feet are oval and compact. The toes are well arched, with white nails. The hindquarters are well angulated and the thighs well developed. The hocks are well let down and firm, and the metatarsals are straight. The legs are parallel and should not converge inward or outward. The feet are like the front feet.The coat consists of a double layer made up of a dense undercoat and a long outer coat. It is straight and without waves. There is a pronounced mane around the neck, more evident in males. The outer part of the ear should be well covered with short, smooth hair, with longer strands growing in front of the ear opening. The hair on the muzzle should be short and smooth. The tail is covered with abundant, long hair. Pure white is preferred, although cream-white is permitted.
Historical notes
The American Eskimo is of German origin and has ancestors such as the Dutch Keeshond, the Pomeranian and the Italian Volpino. Despite its name, the American Eskimo was not present in the United States of America until the 19th century, when Germans emigrated to the country. They were initially called German Spitz, but during the First World War, Americans began calling them “American Eskimo Dog” out of patriotism, even though they do not come from Alaska and were not selected by the Eskimos.
Lifestyle
They greatly enjoy human companionship and are affectionate and playful.
Diseases
This breed may be prone to allergies and overweight.
Interesting facts
After the First World War, the small Spitz dogs became very popular with the American public because they were used as circus dogs.
Gait
The gait is agile and bold.
Ideal owner
It is a dog very attached to its family and is also suitable for less experienced owners, but it does not like being left alone for long periods, so it is recommended for someone with plenty of time to devote to this splendid animal.
The Alaskan Malamute is a large dog with a brave and friendly spirit. Friendly with other animals, it can be a good life companion, always wise and caring.