Eskies are energetic and playful. They need daily exercise—walks, training sessions, and games that engage their brain. A bored Eskie will bark, dig, or become a full-time home inspector.
These dogs are fast learners who love to perform. Training should be fun, varied, and frequent. Eskies thrive with positive reinforcement and often excel at tricks, agility, or obedience.
Great with kids and other pets when socialized early. Eskies love being involved and don’t do well in homes where they’re left out of the mix.
Their double coat requires brushing 2–3 times a week to prevent matting and control shedding. They’re prone to tear staining and need regular eye and face care.
Vocal and alert—Eskies bark at guests, squirrels, wind, boredom… you name it. They’re watchdogs with something to say.
Not hypoallergenic. Eskies shed year-round and produce dander, especially during coat blowouts.
Start with our First 48 Hours Survival Guide to get your new pup set up for success from day one.
Then dive into the full Puppy 101 Series—your go-to hub for raising a happy, well-adjusted dog.
And if you’re ready to go even deeper, grab a copy of the book: Help! I Got a Puppy. It’s everything you didn’t know you needed to know.
Living with an American Eskimo Dog is like living with a tiny, fluffy executive producer—always watching, always involved, and always ready to give feedback (usually in the form of barking). They’re charming, clever, and incredibly devoted, but they expect to be included in everything. Whether you’re cooking dinner, folding laundry, or just walking across the room, you can count on an Eskie to follow, comment, and maybe strike a pose for the imaginary camera.
This breed thrives on attention and interaction. They’re smart—sometimes too smart—and if they don’t get enough mental stimulation, they’ll invent their own agenda, which might involve rearranging your shoe rack or announcing every passing car. But when their needs are met, they’re loving, eager, and wildly entertaining companions.
Eskie life isn’t low-maintenance—it’s vibrant, talkative, and filled with fur. But for owners who want a beautiful, brainy, and slightly bossy best friend who will keep them on their toes and close to their hearts, the American Eskimo Dog is a spotlight-worthy addition to the family.
Common issues include:
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
• Hip dysplasia
• Patellar luxation
• Dental disease
• Tear staining and eye irritation
• Separation anxiety
American Eskimo Dogs thrive in homes that are active, attentive, and full of companionship. They’re not built for solitude—they want to be where the action is, preferably with someone who appreciates a furry shadow. Whether it’s a house with a yard or an apartment with daily walks and games, Eskies just need consistent engagement and a family that enjoys having a talkative, energetic presence around. A fenced yard is a perk for playtime, but their real requirement is time and togetherness. Left alone too often, they can become anxious, vocal, or creatively mischievous.
Hi, I’m the American Eskimo Dog. I’m smart, sparkly, and just a little bit extra. I’ll learn anything you teach me—just don’t ignore me. I’ll help you run the house, keep the neighbors on notice, and be your personal sidekick in everything from laundry to living room dance parties. If you love a dog with opinions and panache, I’m all in.
• Can develop separation anxiety if left alone too often
• May bark excessively without training or stimulation
• Needs consistent grooming to prevent mats and stains
• Not ideal for noise-sensitive neighbors
• Thrives with trick training or agility work
• Slicker brush and comb for weekly grooming
• Tear stain wipes and facial grooming scissors
• Puzzle toys and training gear
• Snuffle mat or enrichment feeder
• High-value treats for training focus
• Fluffy double coat, always white
• Heavy seasonal shedding
• Prone to matting behind ears and under arms
• Requires weekly brushing minimum
• Clean face regularly to reduce tear stains
Feed for coat health and energy:
• High-quality kibble with omega-3s for skin and coat
• Monitor calorie intake—small but active
• Avoid table scraps—they’re prone to begging
• Break meals into 2 per day to prevent hunger crashes
• Consider supplements for joints and eyes if needed
• Brush multiple times weekly during shed season
• Clean eyes and mouth area regularly
• Provide daily physical and mental exercise
• Address barking early with training and routine
• Schedule regular dental and joint checkups
The American Eskimo Dog is dazzling, demanding, and delightful. With training, structure, and plenty of attention, they’ll reward you with devotion, brilliance, and the occasional barked monologue.
