American Eskimo Dog
The American Eskimo Dog is described by the AKC as Loyal, Smart, Versatile, a member of the Non-Sporting Group, originally from United States.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 9-12 inches (toy), 12-15 inches (miniature), 15-19 inches (Standard) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 6-10 pounds (toy), 10-20 pounds (miniature), 25-35 pounds (standard) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 13–15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Loyal / Smart / Versatile [1] |
| AKC group | Non-Sporting Group [1] |
| Origin | United States [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 124 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
An active dog with lots of energy, the Eskie is also quick and curious, requiring lots of exercise and mental challenges. An Eskie who is left alone or who doesn't get enough exercise can quickly become destructive. A securely fenced yard and an assortment of toys will help provide good exercise and stimulation to keep an Eskie out of trouble. [1]
Grooming
The American Eskimo Dog's fluffy, white double coat '¿ a short, dense undercoat below the longer outer coat '¿ is surprisingly easy to keep clean. However, Eskies shed almost constantly. A thorough brushing two or three times a week will remove dead hairs before they can be shed, as well as help to prevent matting. [1]
Health issues to budget for
A responsible breeder will test his or her breeding stock for health issues such as hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy. As with all breeds, an Eskie's ears should be checked weekly to remove debris and avoid a buildup of wax, and the dog's teeth should be brushed regularly. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, PRCD (PRA-prcd, PRCD) - DNA Test. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a small dog (median $508) | $273 – $1,110 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, small dog | $352 – $1,258 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, small dog | $435 – $1,484 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the American Eskimo Dog in 1994. [1]
- It ranked No. 124 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 118 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Eskie.” [1]
- The AKC lists United States as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 3 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 5/5)
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
Common questions
How long do American Eskimo Dogs live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 13-15 years.
How big does a American Eskimo Dog get?
AKC breed information lists height 9-12 inches (toy), 12-15 inches (miniature), 15-19 inches (Standard) and weight 6-10 pounds (toy), 10-20 pounds (miniature), 25-35 pounds (standard).
How much are vet bills for a American Eskimo Dog?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For small dogs like the American Eskimo Dog, a typical vet bill runs $273 – $1,110 (median $508). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.