Eskimo Dogs
Much of the Eskimo Dogs identity problem of today lies in the fact that their actual numbers remain so low. The plight of the Eskimo dog over the past few decades has been a sad one, as little effort was extended to introduce this proud breed to the general public and, therefore, the breed has become almost forgotten. In the fifties it is believed that 20,000 animals lived in the Canadian North, with still more found in the U.S. where they were being registered at the time. In 1959 the American Kennel Club dropped the dog from their recognised breed ranks due to lack of registration. With the introduction of Snow Machines to the Canadian North, the Eskimo Dog numbers steadily decreased.
The American Eskimo is a beautiful, snowy white Spitz-type dog. It looks like a miniature Samoyed. There are three varieties: the toy, miniature, and standard. That means there is an Eskie for all interests and house sizes. The American Eskimo has a wedge-shaped head with muzzle and skull about the same length. It has erect triangular-shaped ears, and a heavily plumed tail curled over the back.
The Canadian Eskimo Dogs Club, and its members are dedicated to the preservation and future survival of the Canadian Eskimo Dog, promising it a place in our future history and tradition. Through promotion and participation we hope that more parties will be willing to undertake the responsibility and dedication of this indigenous canine and work with the existing breeders to increase the genetic pool of registered stock. Those already involved are working diligently to increase numbers, ensure genetic diversity, and maintain the working integrity of the Canadian Eskimo Dog.
The Eskimo dogs coat needs brushing a couple of times each week to prevent mats and tangles, particularly around the ears and the tail. A pin brush with blunt pins is suitable for regular brushing; a mat rake will be needed if the coat is allowed to tangle. Eskies shed profusely at least once each year. Unspayed bitches may shed after each estrus, and dams drop their coats after nursing a litter. The Eskie is a long-lived breed with few identified problems, but since breeders do little genetic testing, the incidence of inherited diseases may be higher than currently suspected.
The Eskie is one of the most intelligent of all dog breeds. They are very curious. They will examine changes in their environment with a very wary, yet inquisitve eye. Their antics while playing will often cause you to grin or even to laugh. They are very social and very aware of their family. They are very loving. They always seem to know when a family member needs to be cheered-up or to simply be loved. Anyone who has ever had an Eskie hug them truly understand their unique abilty to love.
Forequarters are well angulated. The shoulder is firmly set and has adequate muscle but is not overdeveloped. The shoulder blades are well laid back and slant 45° with the horizontal. At the point of shoulder the shoulder blade forms an approximate right angle with the upper arm. The legs are parallel and straight to the pasterns. The pasterns are strong and flexible with a slant of about 20°. Length of leg in proportion to the body. Dewclaws on the front legs may be removed at the owner’s discretion; if present, they are not to be faulted. Feet are oval, compact, tightly knit and well padded with hair. Toes are well arched. Pads are black to dark brown, tough and deeply cushioned. Toenails are white.
