American Eskimo | Dog Breed Facts and Information – Wag! Dog Walking

The American Eskimo dog, often referred to as “the beautiful dog” for its long soft coat, is a descendant of an ancient line of dogs extended as far back as the Stone Age, 6000 years ago.  Ancient as the bloodline is, this beautiful dog is a close relative of the German Spitz, whose character was first recorded in 1450 in Central Europe as being a valiant defender of homes and field.  Before World War I, the American Eskimo dog was known as the American Spitz, a close relative of the German Spitz.  However, growing anti-German sentiment in the first half of the 20th century made it necessary to alter the dog’s name to the American Eskimo; despite the dog not having any cultural or genetic links to American or Inuit culture.  Many believe the kennel name these dogs were bred in contributed to the name change. The Eskie close relative, the German Spitz, was originally bred as a watchdog for farmers.  The Spitz was not chosen for its aggression but its vocalization and ability to alert people to potential threats.  The American Eskimos, like its German cousin, is vocal and a capable watchdog but the Eskie was bred for entertainment.  Many American Eskimos first captured the hearts of Americans and European alike with their tricks and abilities and were featured in many traveling circuses as tightrope walking dogs. The American Eskimo is considered a small, white Spitz-type dog descendant of the German Spitz, white Keeshond, or possibly white Pomeranians that migrated with Europeans in the 19th century.  The breed was further distinguished from its cousins in 1917, earning its name as the American Eskimo, and was finally recognized by the American Kennel Club as its own breed in 1994 as a non-sporting dog.