The Miniature American Eskimo is also known as Spitz, Standard Eskimo Dog, Miniature Eskimo Dog, Toy Eskimo Dog and Eskie. It is a Nordic-type Spitz breed that originated from European Spitz like German Spitz, the White Keeshond, the White Pomeranian and the White Italian Spitz. Contrary to its name, it has nothing to do with Eskimo culture nor it is an American breed. Despite having German Spitz as its main progenitor, the dog was renamed to American Eskimo due to the prejudice towards Germany during WWI.
This dog was originally bred to be watchdog and companion of the family. It also performed successfully as circus performers between 1930s and 1940s.
According to AKC breed standards, the Miniature American Eskimo or Eskie is a compactly built, sturdy and agile beautiful dog that comes in three sizes; Toy (9-12 inches), Miniature(12-15 inches) and Standard (15-19 inches). The head is wedge-shaped with same length skull and muzzle. Slightly oval, dark to medium brown eyes are set wide apart. High set erect and triangular shaped ears are in proportion in size to the head. Broad muzzle leads to usually black or dark brown nose. Medium length neck is strong and slightly arched. Level topline, straight, broad, strong and level back and deep, broad chest with well sprung ribs give the dog a compact look. Belly is slightly tucked up. Moderately high set tail is carried loosely on the back. The stand-off double coat comes in pure white or white with biscuit colouring.
This breed is recognized by AKC, CKC and UKC among other kennel clubs.
