Known for their playful nature and ever-present grin, the American Eskimo Dog never fails to bring joy to their pet parents. And now, admirers of the Eskie have even more reason to smile—National American Eskimo Dog Day!
When is National American Eskimo Dog Day?
National American Eskimo Dog Day is celebrated annually on January 15. This pet holiday was established in 2020 by TheWoofBook.com, a Facebook group for dog lovers.
Fun Facts About American Eskimo Dogs
In honor of the day, here are some fascinating facts about the breed:
Origins: The American Eskimo Dog hails from Germany, where the breed was originally used for herding and guarding livestock.
Names: Over time, the American Eskimo Dog has been known by various names, including the German Spitz (from which the breed descended), American Spitz, and Cloud Spitz, earning them the nickname “Cloud.”
Nickname: Eskie is another affectionate nickname for the American Eskimo Dog.
Name Change: During World War I, to avoid any anti-German sentiment, the breed was referred to as the American Spitz before officially being renamed the American Eskimo Dog in 1917.
Sizes: The breed comes in three sizes:
- Toy (9-12 inches)
- Miniature (12-15 inches)
- Standard (15-20 inches)
Coat Colors: Eskies typically have white coats, with cream or biscuit-colored markings also being acceptable among reputable breeders.
Lifespan: The average lifespan for an American Eskimo Dog is 13-15 years.
Popularity: Despite their charm, the American Eskimo Dog ranked 122nd on the American Kennel Club’s list of most popular dog breeds in 2021.
Circus Stars
Thanks to their intelligence, American Eskimo Dogs quickly learned tricks and became famous as circus dogs in the early 20th century. These clever canines entertained audiences by dancing, weaving through moving wagon wheels, and even performing as clowns’ companions.
The first famous American Eskimo Dog was Stout Pal Pierre, who walked the tightrope with the Barnum and Bailey Circus in the 1930s. Traveling circuses also helped establish the breed as a popular family dog in the United States by selling litters of puppies to attendees during their stops in various towns.
American Eskimo Dogs in Hollywood
Four American Eskimo pups—Flurry, Nanu, Sitka, and Winter—shared the screen with Sandra Bullock and Betty White, portraying the canine character Kevin in the romantic comedy The Proposal. The breed also showcased their acting talents in the family-friendly movie Hotel for Dogs.
Adopting an American Eskimo Dog
If you’re interested in welcoming an American Eskimo Dog into your home, consider checking out Eskie Rescuers United. This non-profit organization, run entirely by volunteers across the United States, fosters and finds forever homes for Eskies in need.
You can also search for adoptables on: