The life expectancy of this dog is typically between 13 and 15 years of age or longer (depending on the division type).
Trainability and Obedience
Due to their intelligence, training an American Eskimo Dog is not too difficult.
Much like any breed, it is important to begin training when the dog is a puppy.
When training, remember to be firm with your commands as well as consistent. Providing your American Eskimo with some positive reinforcement will work wonders.
These small dogs are also quite athletic and agile.
Due to their physical traits and intelligence, these dogs can perform a variety of tricks.
They can also be trained for narcotic detection.
Remember that any small dog breed can develop small dog syndrome if not properly trained.
Grooming
Due to their thick coats and biannual shedding, it is best to brush your American Eskimo twice a week (daily when shedding).
When brushing your American Eskimo, some vets recommend using a Resco #80 comb and a Frank’s Universal slicker (can be found in Germany).
Use a squirt bottle; fill it with 2 tablespoons of hair conditioner and warm water. Shake the bottle well.
Do not wet the hair; simply adjust the bottle in order to mist. This will remove any static electricity while brushing.
To begin, it is a good to start at the back of the thighs. Using one hand, lift the hair from the bottom of the leg up to the top, holding all the long hair up and out of the way.
Use the water if you come across any static.
Using the comb, start combing the hair in a downward motion; out from under your hand and back onto place. Do not spend too much time in one area. This may cause irritation in that spot.
Continue this style of combing through the entire coat until you are finished. Then repeat with the slicker brush.
History
American Eskimo Dogs are part of the Spitz dog breed. They were first developed in Arctic and northern areas of the world.
The different divisions were used for different purposes. For instances, the standard type being used as sled dogs. The smaller divisions were used primarily as pets and watchdogs.
Eventually, these dogs were developed into various German Spitz breeds.
Seemingly, in the early 1900s European immigrants brought this breed to the United States.
The majority of these small dogs descended from the larger German Spitz, the Keeshond, the white Pomeranian, and the Italian Spitz.
In a display of patriotism in the era of WWI, owners began referring to their pets as American Spitz rather than German Spitz.
The American Eskimo Dog was recognize by the AKC in 1995.
