American Eskimo Dogs - Where Did They Come From?

A common misconception is that American Eskimo Dogs are related to or descended from sled dogs, such as malemutes or huskies. Opinions on our origin do vary, so I'll explain what most humans think.

This is Kenai talking. Chako was supposed to explain our origins to you, but he's sulking.

You see, we had our teeth cleaned earlier this week and the vet shaved a small area on our front paws to be able to put in an IV. I didn't like any of this! I was very scared when we went into the surgery rooms instead of just visiting out in the front office. We didn't even get our usual treats - bummer! Then, to make it worse they took Chako away where I couldn't see him. I hate that, and get very upset. Dad stayed with us for quite a while, but we still got scared. Anyway, after a while they made me go to sleep, and when I woke up Dad was there to take us home. I didn't feel very good for a couple of days, but now everything's just fine.

To get back to the small shaved patch on our front paws - it felt a little strange at first. I licked my patch a bit but then forgot about it and the fur is growing back nicely. But, not Chako! He kept licking his paw and now the skin is raw. Dad put a bandage on it to stop him from licking and of course Chako hates that. He keeps trying to bite it off, so Dad is making him stay close by so that he can keep an eye on him. Chako is still pouting - is there anything worse than a pouty dog? Here's a picture of him. Doesn't he look disgusted with the indignity of having a bandage on his paw?



That's why I (Kenai) am working with Mom at the computer to tell you about the origins of American Eskimo Dogs. It's not all bad, I get her undivided attention.

American Eskimo Dogs - History

The "Eskie" is a member of the Spitz family of Nordic breeds. "Spitz" is not a breed of dog, but rather a group of dogs with similar characteristics. We are almost certainly descended from the European spitzes, including the white German Spitz, the white Keeshound, the white Pomeranian and the Volpino Italiano (white Italian Spitz). After World War II, breeders on the West Coast may even have incorporated some Japanese Spitz into the Eskie.

We are thought to have arrived in this country late in the 19th century with German immigrants. Commonly called German Spitz in Europe, the name gradually changed to American Spitz, probably because of anti-German feelings during World War I. In 1917 the name was changed to American Eskimo. Why American Eskimo? Strange, as we don't seem to have any connection to the Eskimo culture. One thought is that the first dogs registered with the UKC in 1913 were from a kennel called the "American Eskimo" and that is why the name was chosen.

The American Kennel Club has this to say: "Late in the 19th century, the American Eskimo Dog was extremely popular for use in trick-dog acts in the many traveling circuses throughout the United States. The breed excelled in this job because of their sparkling white coat and quickness, and they possessed an innate intelligence, trainability and unsurpassed agility. These dogs traveling with the circuses helped develop and spread the popularity of American Eskimo Dogs." We've also heard that an American Eskimo was the first dog to walk a tightrope! A dog called Pal Pierre owned by Stout first accomplished this amazing feat with the Barnum and Bailey Circus. I don't think I'd like to try that!

It took a long time for the American Eskimo Dog to get AKC recognition as a separate breed. As far back as 1913, the UKC started registering the breed. When the North American Eskimo Dog Association was formed in 1969, the studbook was closed. The American Eskimo Dog Club of America formed in 1985 for the specific purpose of achieving AKC recognition. This goal has now been achieved. As of July 1, 1995, the American Eskimo was formally recognized by the AKC. American Eskimo Dogs can now compete in the Non-Sporting Group. Some of the American Eskimo's talents are watchdog, guarding, narcotics detection, agility, competitive obedience, and performing tricks. Pretty impressive, eh?

We'll continue to keep you updated on our lives and talk much more about American Eskimo Dogs in particular.

Woof, woof, from Kenai.