American Eskimo Dog

The American Eskimo breed has its origins in dogs who lived 6,000 years ago. These Nordic breeds, also called the German Spitz dogs, included the Pomeranian, Samoyed, and Keeshond. These pups possess many of the distinctive traits the Eskie reflects today, including double coats and pointed ears.

During the early 1800s, German immigrants began settling in America. These farmers brought along their beautiful and easily trainable companions: German Spitz dogs. Around this time, traveling circuses were very popular, and, slowly but surely, the dogs “ran off with the circus” and became circus performers. Barnum and Bailey famously featured Eskies who danced to music alongside clowns! Their brilliantly white coats, perky personalities and remarkable intelligence made the American Eskimo’s ancestors born performers.

In 1917, America entered World War I, and the German Spitz’s name was changed to the American Eskimo Dog due to a nationwide scorn for anything of German origin. (Today, the German Spitz and the Eksie are two separate breeds.) The American Kennel Club registered the American Eskimo Dog in 1995, and the rest (as they say) is history.

Are you ready to make this pup your companion dog? You can find a list of reputable American Eskimo Dog breeders on the American Kennel Club’s website. The price for a puppy ranges from $1,200 to $3,000. But for that price, you’re likely getting a pup who’s been screened for health and temperament issues and may come with pedigree papers. You can also contact a local Eskie rescue or watch for the bred at your local shelter.