The American Eskimo Dog is bred in three sizes. The smallest of the three is known as the Toy American Eskimo Dog. By comparison, the Miniature American Eskimo Dog is medium-sized, and the Standard American Eskimo Dog is the largest of the three sizes. The dog is a breed of companion dog from Germany. Contrary to the name, there’s virtually nothing American about the American Eskimo Dog. This dog breed actually traces its origins to Germany, where it was known as the German Spitz. When immigrants brought it over from Germany in the 19th century, it became known as the American Spitz. The dog was renamed the American Eskimo Dog when prejudice against Germany arose from the occurrence of the First World War.
Breed Characteristics
Type: | Pure |
Family: | Spitz |
Function: | Companion |
Origin: | Europe |
Preferred Climate: | Any Climate |
Group: | Non-Sporting (Utility) |
Life Span: | 12-16 Years |
Nicknames: | Toy Eskie |
Hypoallergenic: | No |
Toy American Eskimo Dog Build Information
As the smallest of the three Eskimo Dog sizes, Toys stand at 9 to 12 inches, and they weigh around 10 pounds. Characterized by a fox-like face, a pair of small pointed ears, and richly plumed tails that carry up over the back, the Toy walks with a distinctive smoothness and alertness. Its voluminous coat—which is white- or white-and-biscuit-colored with no markings—consists of a short dense undercoat and a straight uncurled outer coat.
Size: | Toy |
Length (Male): | 8-12 in. |
Length (Female): | 8-10 in. |
Weight: | < 14 lbs |
Litter Size: | 1 – 3 Puppies |
Tail Dock or Crop: | No |
Behaviour and Personality
The Toy American Eskimo Dog is a high-energy dog that needs regular exercise and something to do. Otherwise it can get destructive, especially if left unattended for long periods of time. Also, thanks to its thick coat, it thrives especially in the wintertime. Its high sense of loyalty and quick grasp of new tasks enable it to be a terrific trick dog.
Activity Level: | Very Active |
Affection Level: | Very Affectionate |
Aggressiveness Level: | Easy |
Barking: | Noisy |
Dominating or Submissive?: | None |
Energy Level: | Very Active |
Good to Other Pets: | Friendly |
Guardian Skills: | No |
Independant: | No |
Kid Friendliness: | Very Friendly |
Appearance
The Toy American Eskimo Dog has an ample double coat that is striking in appearance. Because of the sheer beauty of the dog, regular brushing and bathing is strongly recommended to maintain its appearance.
Colors: | White |
Shedding: | Constant |
Grooming: | Medium Maintenance |
Coat Type: | Dense |
Toy American Eskimo Dog Common Health Conditions
Like other sizes of this dog breed, Toy American Eskimo Dog tend to develop diseases like hip dysplasia, Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease, progressive retinal atrophy, and juvenile cataracts. Otherwise, though, they are generally healthy dogs.
Toy American Eskimo Dog Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
Get a Free Pet Insurance Quote
Breed Talents and Facts
Due to its origin and naming history, the Toy American Eskimo Dog has also been referred to as the American Spitz, German Spitz or Eskimo Spitz. Affectionate appellations for the dog include “Eskie” and “the dog beautiful”. The American Kennel Club accepted the American Eskimo Dog into its registry in 1994. The dog rose in popularity in circuses throughout the US in the 19th century.
Training: | Easy |
Hunting Companion: | No |
Jolly for Jogging: | Yes |
Sighting Capabilities: | No |
Ideal for Tracking: | No |
Retrieving Skills: | No |
Pointing Breed: | No |
Herding Skills: | No |
Dutiful Watchdog: | Yes |
Security Guard Capable: | Yes |
Police Performer: | No |
Wet Water rescues: | No |
Assist Disable Owners: | No |
Dog Sledding: | No |
Able to Perform Dog Carting: | No |
Agile/Zippy: | Yes |
Fun with Lure Coursing: | No |
Obedient: | Yes |
Possible Schutzhund Work: | No |
Trainable for Tricks: | Yes |