The American Eskimo Dog, in spite of its name, did not come from Alaska; it came from Germany, and it is a crossbreed between the Switzerland Spitz and the Volpino Italiano. When immigrant workers came to America, they brought these dogs along with them. They were used as pets by the working classes as circus dogs (the famous Barnum and Bailey Circus presented popular performances with them) and as farm dogs.
After World War II, their name was changed to American Eskimo Dog in order to get rid of the German-sounding name, which was done as a form of protest against the disasters during the war. In time, the dogs' characteristics have become different from the Spitz, and that is why some kennel clubs felt it necessary to treat them as a different breed, even though they were exported as the German Spitz. There are still many kennel clubs that recognize them as being similar to the German Spitz breed.
The breed comes in 3 sizes - the larger standard breed measures 15-19 inches, the miniature size measures 12-15 inches, and the toy is the smallest at 9-12 inches. The American Eskimo dog has a short head, a cute, foxy face, and long, white, fluffy hair. Because of its white coat, the breed has been named Eskimo. Their thick double-wired coat needs to be brushed and combed twice a week and washed more often than other dogs'. This breed has medium-sized, bat-shaped ears that remain in an upright position. Their life expectancy easily reaches 12-14 years, but there are dogs that have been known to reach even 16 years. They are usually healthy dogs, with an above average intelligence, and are very playful and eager to please their master.
They are very easy to train and are able to do things that other breeds cannot perform or learn. That is why the Eskies (as they are often called) are able to perform circus acts, such as dancing to music, wire walking, jumping over obstacles, performing with other animals like ponies or monkeys, performing roles with the clowns, and many more. They are able to learn tricks and invent tricks of their own just to please their master.
Even though the American Eskimo Dog is a highly energetic breed, it is still very obedient and quiet. It is perfectly able to live together with the family and other pets, and it is a child's best companion because of its insatiable playing mood.
If their environment is not a large yard but an apartment, it is advisable to train these dogs to obey the owner's commands from an early age. They usually need at least a walk every day, and a long one if you have the standard size. If you have the toy-sized dog, a short walk or a little bit of playing in the back yard will keep him happy.
The American Eskimo Dog remains a good, trustful, and intelligent companion, and the best friend for your children as well as for your other pets.