Miniature American Eskimo Dog

The Miniature American Eskimo Dog is a new breed developed from the full-sized Eskimo Dog or Eskie. This breed is classified as a “Spitz” type along with Akita, Chow Chow, Pomeranian, Finnish Spitz, and Keeshond. All Spitz dogs have pointed ears, a pointed muzzle, and a curled tail. American Eskimo dogs did not come from the working dogs of the northern tribes.

The Miniature American Eskimo Dog is recognized by the UKC and the AKC as a non-sporting breed. The UKC recognizes only standard and miniature sizes of the breed, and the AKC also recognizes the toy size of the breed. All three varieties of the breed are strong and endurable enough to withstand harsh climate. These dogs have a well-proportioned body, well-sprung ribs, straight back, well-boned legs with tough pads, and a double coat. Nowadays, these dogs are bred mainly as companions, but full-sized Eskimo Dogs are still able to pull sled and run for hours. Miniature and Toy varieties are not suited for any work except amusing their owners because of their small size.

The coat of all Nordic dogs is very thick. The undercoat is soft and fluffy, providing an effective isolation from cold; the outer coat is stiff and coarse, providing protection from the wind. The Miniature American Eskimo Dog can be kept outdoors even when the weather is very cold. The tail of these dogs is plumed with longer hair; the thickest coat is around the neck in males. The coat of the American Eskimo Dog should be free of waves and curls. White is the preferred coat color, but cream and biscuit markings are acceptable.

Although the Miniature American Eskimo Dog is able to withstand cold, it should be kept indoors to get enough human attention. Excessive shedding makes this breed difficult to keep indoors, but it’s possible to make a crate in a separate room and let the dog sleep there. Many owners of these dogs let the dog spend the day in the yard and allow it indoors for the night. These dogs are very communicative and fun-loving. It’s not a problem for a Miniature American Eskimo Dog to live in the kennel, but in this case the owner will have a neurotic, noisy, and disobedient pet suited for watchdogging only.