Toy American Eskimo Dog

The Toy American Eskimo Dog belongs to the Spitz type of breeds. There are three varieties of the American Eskimo Dog: the standard, miniature, and toy. They are suited for different tasks and living conditions. All three types look the same; the only difference is their size. American Eskimo Dogs are slightly longer than tall. These dogs have a wedge-shaped head. Their muzzle and skull are almost the same length. The neck of the Toy American Eskimo Dog is strong and moderately long. The topline should be level. The legs should be well-boned and very strong.

Like all Northern breeds, the Toy American Eskimo Dog has erect triangular ears and a bushy tail curled gaily over the back. Another typical characteristics of the Northern breeds is a profuse white coat. The undercoat should be very thick and plush; the outer coat is coarse and straight. Curling or waving coat is a fault in this breed. The coat is very dense and long on the neck, creating a ruff, which is especially beautiful in males. Biscuit or cream markings are allowed in this breed. Toy American Eskimo Dogs have pink or gray skin. The preferable color for their eyelids, gums, nose, and pads is black. The preferable eye color is dark brown; blue eye color is a disqualification.

The Toy American Eskimo Dog should stand from 9 to 12 inches at the withers and weigh about 10 pounds. Smaller Miniature and Standard American Eskimo Dogs can be sold by unethical breeders as Toy variety. To be on the safe side, the buyer should visit the kennel and check if both parents of the puppy belong to the Toy variety. If one of the parents are Miniature or Standard, the litter cannot be registered as purebred dogs.

American Eskimo Dogs, like all Northern breeds are healthy and endurable. They were selected for many centuries by the native tribes that relied fully on these dogs and culled defective individuals. The only problem in this breed is hip and elbow dysplasia that occurs in many active dogs. This breed is prone to obesity, if not provided with enough exercise. Special attention should be paid to eyes and coat of the Toy American Eskimo Dog.