American Eskimo Dog

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American Eskimo Dog

American Eskimo Dog Characteristics

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Grooming Needs:
Exercise Needs:
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American Eskimo Dog Breed Information

Breed Group: Non-Sporting

Weight: 6-40 lbs

Height: 9-19 inches

Color(s): white, or white with biscuit cream

UKC Champion Bred Minuature Nick

American Eskimo Dog

$950.00

UKC Champion Bred Toys and Minuatures

American Eskimo Dog

$950.00

UKC Champion Bred Minuature NASH

American Eskimo Dog

$950.00

Overview

The exact origin of this breed is unknown, although it is widely believed this companion dog originated in the United States by German immigrants in the 20th century. A Member of the Spitz family, the American Eskimo Dog comes in three different varieties: toy, miniature, and standard. They became extremely popular in the 1930's and 1940's as a circus performer.

Character

Commonly referred to as the Eskie, this breed is compact and strong. A Nordic type dog, they are exceedingly agile and alert. They are considered to be one of the most intelligent of all dog breeds. The American Eskimo Dog is well balanced, hardy, and known for their longevity. This versatile breed possesses outstanding working skills, and makes a lovely companion.

Temperament

Bred solely to be companions, the American Eskimo Dog thrives on being part of the family. This charming and playful breed is excellent with children, and loves to be lavished with attention. They are suspicious and wary of strangers and make good guardians of their family and home. They love to bark and will sound the alarm whenever they deem it necessary. This breed does not do well if left alone for extended periods of time or if they are isolated, as they will engage in destructive activities.

Care

This breed requires firm bristle brushing twice weekly to prevent tangles and mats. Daily brushing may be necessary when they are shedding. They have drier skin than most other breeds; so bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary. The American Eskimo Dog is prone to hip dysplasia, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy.

Coat

The American Eskimo Dog has a glorious standoff double-coat. The under coat is dense with a longer coat of guard hair that grows through to form the outer coat. The outer coat is straight with no wave or curl. There is a profuse ruff around the neck. The backs of the front and rear legs are well feathered. The coat color is white, or white with cream or biscuit markings. This breed is an average shedder that "blows" their coat twice a year.

Training

The American Eskimo Dog is easy to train and eager to please. This breed is highly talented in obedience trials. It is crucial they have early socialization to prevent aggression later in life. Training must be done with firmness, fairness, consistency, and positive reinforcement. The American Eskimo Dog is quite gifted in guarding, performing tricks, competitive obedience, agility, and narcotics detection.

Activity

This breed must have regular daily exercise. They enjoy securely leashed walks or playing in an enclosed yard. The American Eskimo Dog is active indoors and has a busy nature. They benefit immensely from family play sessions. They will do okay in an apartment provided they are sufficiently exercised and paid attention to.

Ask a Question American Eskimo Dog Questions & Answers

QUESTION: I have a 6 year old westie - eskie mix best dog I've ever owned, however! He has recently began acting like a puppy. ( chewing, destroying trash & paper, not wanting to go outside,( not a problem with relieving hisself yet still will go out for that)) Any ideas? Nothing has changed here still same neighbor dogs ( privacy fenced ) and he is the only pet in home.

Anonymous - 1/31/2012 11:54:48 AM

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I have the same problem with my American Eskimo mix. But we have a new neighbor dog that moved in sooooooooo.......... I honestly don"t know.

Anonymous - 2/4/2012 6:29:48 PM

QUESTION: I have an american eskimo spitz mini that had heartworm and notice said she is worm free. How much does the dog eat? She loves to get a handful after going out in the morning which is at 7am then she gets fed at 8:30 and then at 4:30pm. Which is 1 full cup each time.

Anonymous - 1/18/2012 8:09:51 AM

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QUESTION: I have an American Eskimo-Poodle mix she is was born in 1999. How long do these mix breed dogs normally last for?

Anonymous - 1/8/2012 10:53:03 AM

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QUESTION: How big is the mini American Eskimo Dog?

Anonymous - 1/2/2012 12:07:41 PM

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my american eskimo weighs 11 lbs and is very active with playing with her brothers and sisters who are doxies. she is a rescue dog from a rescue whom i adopted and now she is worm free.

Anonymous - 2/5/2012 7:59:20 AM

My precious american eskimo is a mini and weighs 11 pounds - can anyone tell me how much she should be fed during the day as I feed her now 2xs a day? Thank you for letting me know if anyone knows please let me know.

Anonymous - 1/22/2012 5:37:50 PM

my precious is only a mini and right now she is at 11Lbs .and american eskimo spitz that is what they are telling me.

Anonymous - 1/20/2012 1:45:21 PM

she was 11lb and so good in temperment and gets along with all of my dogs.

Anonymous - 1/20/2012 10:07:01 AM

QUESTION: I love the American Eskimo and have had 7 in the last 25 years. I am really trying hard to train this last one. He will not come to me most of the time when I call him, but will come when I walk off. I want to know how to get him to come right away in case he is in danger. Can someone give me some suggestions?

Anonymous - 12/8/2011 5:42:56 PM

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First of all, please have your american eskimo's hearing checked...secondly sit down on the floor with something that will make him curious enough to come over to you...when he comes, and he WILL come shower him with affection and give him a treat...small treat....do this a few times over at different times and with different toys...eventually, you can just call him over to see the new toy, saying his name...the treat will be you showing signs of affection and good boy lavished all over him...he will come eventually if he has reason to initially..then he will just come when called...i had a beautiful female eskimo and she was a total delight...the bonding that took place immediatly when we brought her home was incredible...we didn't have the problem you have, but it does make sense to entice, and then reward...i hope it will work for you...

Anonymous - 12/18/2011 9:32:41 AM

Start on a long line like they use on horses so you are in control your American Eskimo can be safe you may have accidently turned the command come in to play with the line you can stop and correct while leting the dog have some freedom

Anonymous - 12/12/2011 2:33:22 PM

QUESTION: My American Eskimo Dog is constantly licking his privates...is this normal?

Anonymous - 12/5/2011 4:50:29 PM

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QUESTION: I have a 15 year old american eskimo she is the only dog, and I want to get a puppy of the same breed how will this effect my original eskimo?

Anonymous - 12/5/2011 12:05:17 PM

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Many older dogs are not forgiving of lively eskie puppies, only dogs can be jealous also. I would suggest keeping the puppy crated and/or penned when you can not supervise them closely at first. Or later to give the older dog a break. The older dog will likely reprimand the puppy w/ growling or snapping. Mine never has bitten a pup, but he lets them know he's boss w/ a snap. Do not allow the older dog to bully the pup tho'. After a bit, they will be used to each other, and probably even become pals.

Anonymous - 12/14/2011 5:56:40 AM

QUESTION: how well do american eskimo dogs that are the only dog in the house tolerate new eskie puppies ?

Anonymous - 12/5/2011 11:58:38 AM

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QUESTION: I have an American Eskimo. He is a little over a year old. He seems like he has two sides to him he can be very playful and a joy to be around and at other times he can get very nippy and at times seem a little aggressive. Is this just how the breed is or is this a problem and if so how should I fix this?

Anonymous - 11/29/2011 4:51:43 PM

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My American Eskimo Dog, bob is 2 and 3 months old...same characteristics...he is so great though. He would be your best buddy. I learned with Bob that he is easier to do what I say now than ever......he is simlpy soooo spoiled that he is human.....I think this breed is so profoundly smart it is incredible

Anonymous - 12/5/2011 4:54:15 PM

This is somewhat typical of the American Eskimo breed. Ensure that you assert your dominance on a regular basis to establish that you are the "pack leader".

Anonymous - 12/3/2011 11:56:58 PM

QUESTION: I have an 18 week old female American Eskimo. She has attached to me just fine, but I also live with my fiance and Roommate. Whenever anyone but me is around she hides and whines. What can I do or have other people do in order to bond with her?

Anonymous - 11/26/2011 12:28:21 AM

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Have your roommate and boyfriend feed her and play w/ her when you are there (you ignore her). Eskies can bond too closely to one person sometimes, give her the chance to bond w/ others. If you wait too long to socialize her, she'll be shy and may become a fear biter. Trusting more people should give her more confidence. Good luck!

Anonymous - 12/14/2011 6:02:46 AM

He is still young...my American Eskimo Dog, Bob, acted that way up until 1 year ago and he just seems to get smarter and more loving as the days go on.

Anonymous - 12/5/2011 4:55:50 PM

QUESTION: I recently purchased a 3 yr old Amer. Esk. who will not go outside. He's very shy and runs away from you but will come up to you on his own terms to get petted that's when I pick him up to go outside. He does his buisness outside and not in but what we have to go through to get him out. Any suggestions?

Anonymous - 11/21/2011 1:29:32 PM

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Perhaps find your Eskie's favorite toy (or something that will distract him such as a Peanut Butter Kong). Sit outside with him on a regular basis with the favorite distraction until the outside becomes a positive place. My Eskie can be very stubborn - once she gets an "idea" in her head, it can be very difficult to break her of an irrational fear, but this has seemed to work fairly well for me. They're great dogs - such a sense of humor - she is always cracking me up with her new games and new ideas. However, my Eskie sounds like yours in that, while she's not shy of me, she only wants to be petted when she is in the mood - I call her my cat. Fortunately, she is quite jealous - when I want to pet her, I just start playing with my Sheltie. That brings her running - and the Sheltie is always up for cuddling and petting! She also gets quite excited by funny noises (like sneezes) when I need to get her attention quickly.

Anonymous - 1/16/2012 6:41:53 AM

QUESTION: How big do American Eskimo Dogs get?

Anonymous - 11/10/2011 11:57:54 AM

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American Eskimo can get up to 19 inches tall and 40 pounds

Anonymous - 11/14/2011 6:34:18 PM

QUESTION: Hi, I got an older, female mini eskie about 5 months ago. I am considering getting a 7 month old male too because the female isn't very affectionate and I want a little lapdog. I'm wondering if they will bond more with each other or if the new dog (who seems very affectionate) will bond with me and be affectionate with me. Thanks for your help.

Anonymous - 11/5/2011 6:04:19 PM

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your adult eskie still loves you so you will need to introduce the puppy and your dog in the right way or there might be a lot of jealousy which could lead to fighting

Anonymous - 11/14/2011 6:36:12 PM

QUESTION: so...my boyfriend is getting me an american eskimo puppy in 2 weeks :) the puppy will be staying at his house which is on a big farm. im going to be at school during the day time. so ive been hearing lots of different ways of how to house train him. we were thinking of putting a gate up in the kitchen and just having the crate door open. is that a good idea? or should we just keep him only in the crate?? oh and i was told dont use puppy pads, use newspapers. im being told so many things! help!!

Anonymous - 11/1/2011 4:57:31 PM

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QUESTION: Where do wild american eskimo dogs live? Are there even wild american eskimo dogs anymore?

Anonymous - 10/26/2011 8:00:09 PM

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American eskimo dogs were never wild. They were bred in the early 20th century as circus dogs from the larger spitx breed in Bavaria. The name was changed during WWII to distance the animal from its German roots.

Anonymous - 12/2/2011 2:59:55 PM

QUESTION: my dog breed is american eskimo and he is about 3 months. he eats clothes. what should i do?

Anonymous - 10/22/2011 2:14:48 AM

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Place a box of toys in a room or several and enterchange the toys to keep your eskimo interested

Anonymous - 11/14/2011 6:38:44 PM

QUESTION: I rescued my dog Sadie at 6 months or so while in Kethchikan Alaska. She appears to be American Eskimo to me, Standard size but is black with white markings. She looks just like the pictures here but is black. she weighs 34 lbs and fits the behavior to a tee. No one seems to know what she is or do not want to say, We though Shipper Kee but unsure. I would really like to know. Do the American Eskimo ever come in other colors?

Anonymous - 9/30/2011 9:26:31 AM

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She may be a random crossbreed where the Eskie part came out more. Another possibility is she may be an Eskie cross or full German Spitz, they have 3 sizes and a wide variety of colors. They are very similar in appearance and behavior to Eskies.

Anonymous - 12/14/2011 6:15:15 AM

Eskies are only white, and have cream spots sometimes, but never black. Their are closly related to pomeranians however, and your pup might be a mix of that and something. :)

Anonymous - 10/24/2011 2:10:14 AM

QUESTION: Hey everyoene!! I have an american eskimo and he gets nervous so where should i let him sleep at night?

Anonymous - 9/18/2011 10:34:21 PM

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I let my eskimo sleep right next to my bed. I pet him on the head and tell him he's a good boy and he sleeps there all night!

Anonymous - 10/21/2011 1:03:46 AM

QUESTION: My granddaughter just got an American Eskimo dog. It is 3 months old. We have a Lab who is about 6 yrs old. This little dog is jumping on the big dog and looking to bite her. The big dog growls but doesn't do anything else but bark.This also seems to bother the little dog. Do you think these 2 dogs will ever get along or are we going to have a problem. Right now, the big dog doesn't want to be bother with the little dog.

Anonymous - 8/16/2011 3:31:01 PM

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Yes, these two dogs will become friends,,,the little one will learn who to play with and who not to play with,,,if the relationship is long-term, they will establish a pecking order when the little one matures.....and when the chips are down, these two will be best buddies...

Anonymous - 8/23/2011 12:32:14 AM

QUESTION: We took in my cousin's 4 year old, female American Eskimo dog. The dog was raised around 2 other female dogs (not eskies & large). I have a male mixed breed dog & a male cat. We have only had her for 5 days now & she has become quite possessive of me. She growls at my dog when he comes near me & chases the cat. I'm not too worried about the cat. He will eventually put her in her place! But, I don't like that she growls at my dog. I am trying to correct her when she does it. Otherwise, she is a sweet, obedient dog. My dog is also sweet and very kind. Will the eskie eventually calm down when she gets comfortable? Although, she has made herself right at home already! Thanks!

Anonymous - 8/10/2011 12:16:45 PM

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How big is the mixed breed? You will have to continue to show your Eski that she is equal to the rest of the animals,,,most animals (especially) dogs and cats; learn by repetition...keep up the coaching,,,the dogs on their own will establish themselves and in time learn to be respectful toward one another...They might not always see eye to eye but they will learn how to coexist...not luck, just patience..

Anonymous - 8/23/2011 12:39:26 AM

QUESTION: would a baby american eskimo puppy get along with a mini baby lop bunny?

Anonymous - 8/8/2011 12:36:18 PM

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I had a polish dwarf bunny when I got my Eskie pup. They became quite good friends. However, I did have to watch them. As they were playing, the puppy would frequently bat at the bunny's face, giving him several eye infections.

Anonymous - 1/16/2012 6:47:33 AM

Yes...quite possible....and better results as well as easier training if these two grew up together....cool combination..

Anonymous - 8/23/2011 12:42:20 AM

QUESTION: why does my eskie eat poop, because sometimes he will eat it and roll in it help!

Anonymous - 8/2/2011 5:27:28 PM

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When my American Eskimo was a pup he ate poop too. No one knows why they do it. Its a common occurrence (not just in Eskimos), but to deter them from doing it, I have found feeding them pineapple works pretty well. One of the books I have read suggested it because it makes the "taste" of poop bad. You can also try hot sauce. I opted for pineapple because it just seemed like it would set in his stomach better than hot sauce. Either way, stopped feeding him pineapple after you notice they have stopped eating the poop. You don't need to give 'em a lot to begin with either. It also recommended that when you take your Eskimo out, watch them and correct as needed until they know it is not good to eat. Generally, after understanding that, they stop and it was just a teenage phase.

Anonymous - 10/30/2011 12:58:27 AM

To a dog, "it" is available food....rolling in it is quite common with cattle breeds and my observations are simply to scent themselves....Go figure...but to a cattle dog, if they smell like "it" they become undetectable to the big nosed cow, or horse, or sheep...ect.

Anonymous - 8/23/2011 12:47:05 AM

QUESTION: I'm interested in an Eskie, but i live in a very hot and humid place. I'm not sure if it is suited for a cold climate dog. I need advise. first time owner. thx

Anonymous - 7/30/2011 5:54:21 AM

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My Eskie lays out on hot concrete far longer than the other dogs. When brushed the coat reflects the heat in summer. There are/have been Eskie type white breeds all around the Mediterranean, they acclimatize. Do not shave Eskies, it will make them hotter!

Anonymous - 12/14/2011 6:22:53 AM

Dogs and Horses...two of the most "weather versatile" animals on Earth...they can take the extremes well...animals will adapt to a certain extent...Every chance you get try to keep your dog cool.....and get him a kiddy pool for the yard...ha ha they love it.....

Anonymous - 8/23/2011 1:03:26 AM

My family had an Eskie for 16 great years. Its common for it to be in the hundreds most of the summer here where we live. Just make sure it has plenty of water and shade. Best pet I have ever had.

Anonymous - 8/15/2011 6:56:41 PM

QUESTION: Good Morning! I am divorcing and have moved to a country/mountainous area. I was forced to take my 2 Eskies with me. I have a 9 yr old neutered male and an 8 yr old un-spayed female. They are used to a regular front yard and are having issues, anxiety and difficulties with the farm animals. I would like to find them a good home together. What would be the best direction to go? All suggestions are welcome.

Anonymous - 7/28/2011 2:04:55 PM

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Eskies are better off w/ someone who knows the breed. If all else fails, definitely use an Eskie placement/rescue site. "Heart Bandits" is an organization that I've become impressed w/. Lots of dedicated people in many states. I bet they'd have some good ideas for you.

Anonymous - 12/14/2011 6:30:23 AM

Well first I would try to find someone with the same type of living style, then try for a rescue because they wont put down the dogs. If you want them together make sure to say that. For a last resort you can try posting it on the internet. But make sure that you charge money because then just anybody will buy your american eskimos just people who are seriously interested.

Anonymous - 9/11/2011 5:45:06 PM

QUESTION: I have a 3 yr old american eskimo dog. I was told by someone that the brown spot on m American eskimo's tail looks malignant. My dog has had this brownish color at the tip if her tail for a long time. Can you tell me what does the brownish color mean or should I worry it is malignant? Do all american Eskimo's have this brownish spot on their tail tips?

Anonymous - 7/28/2011 11:49:11 AM

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yes all do. In differnt places though

Anonymous - 8/18/2011 4:44:20 PM

All the eskimos have it , diffrent locations. Have a great day.

Anonymous - 7/31/2011 5:03:38 PM

QUESTION: I have an american eskimo and he is 18 years old and won't eat his food. He just lies down and barks. Do you think you know whats happening?

Anonymous - 7/27/2011 12:13:54 PM

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You definetly need to get your american eskimo to the vet because it could be a number of things.

Anonymous - 9/11/2011 5:46:28 PM

sorry but your american eskimo is most likely to pass away soon.

Anonymous - 8/1/2011 11:04:25 AM

QUESTION: HI! I AM CONSIDERING ADOPTING A 1.5 YEAR OLD MALE AMERICAN ESKIMO DOG. MOST OF HIS LIFE WAS SPENT IN A PET SHOP SO HE IS VERY LUCKY. HE ISN'T TRAINED. IS IT TOO LATE TO START? IS THE HIGH 20'S A GOOD WEIGHT FOR HIM? THANKS!

Anonymous - 7/20/2011 7:25:45 PM

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I agree with the first commenter...You have created a bond just taking the dog from the pet shop...we don't see this happening. To the animal you are a hero....Don't worry...without a whole bunch of work, this american eskimo will adopt YOUR routine....have fun..

Anonymous - 8/23/2011 1:11:55 AM

Absolutely not! I have had dogs throughout my whole life and my American Eskimo is by far the smartest dog yet. They are so very smart and only wish to please. I would think, with good training, a couple weeks training and you'd have a wonderful friend! I say go ahead and adopt him and you will very quickly see how fast he will steal your heart!

Anonymous - 7/23/2011 1:00:09 AM

QUESTION: Is it normal for american eskimo puppies to sleep that much throughout the day? I just got a 3 month old puppy (he is absolutely adorable and super fluffy!) and have had him for 5 days now and noticed that he sleeps a lot during the day. Which is kinda unfortunate when night time rolls around since he'll bark and whine quite a bit a night. Took him to the vet on the first day I got him and the vet said he is pretty much all healthy so I can't see that its anything too serious...right?

Anonymous - 7/12/2011 12:51:34 AM

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Put your american eskimo's crate next to your bed this will make him feel more at ease because he can see you at night. I have two American Eskimo-Sheltie combination dogs and both sleep on dog pillows next to our bed at night. After quick kisses at night we all sleep peacefully through night. I did this with both dogs when they first came home when adopted as puppies. One dog is 4.5 years old and the second is 1.5 years.

Anonymous - 8/18/2011 7:07:10 PM

Nothing serious. Puppies usually whine and cry during the night because they aren't used to being alone. Your American Eskimo probably nervous during the night so he doesn't get much sleep. While he's in your presence, he probably feels more comfortable to fall asleep and does. He will grow out of this soon enough.

Anonymous - 7/18/2011 3:05:18 PM

QUESTION: do all puppies have pink tummy and brown spots.

Anonymous - 7/8/2011 3:04:28 PM

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All of the ones I've ever seen have the pink and brown belly. My kids call it piggy belly.

Anonymous - 7/9/2011 8:49:39 PM

QUESTION: My family brought home an 11-month American Eskimo yesterday, and she hasn't gone potty. I take her outside on a leash and wait for about 45 minutes and nothing, just sniffs around. She has eaten twice since we had her (we've had her for about 13 hours,so she had a late dinner the night we got her (9pm), and breakfast (6:30am). The family we adopted her from had her for a month and she isn't trained. She hasn't gone potty in the house (good thing). We have a crate for her and she hasn't gone in there either (another good thing). She is a very sweet dog and seems happy. So I am wondering...Is this abnormal? I know she has to go eventually. Will she go while on a leash? How long should I wait for her to potty outside? Is she still getting adjusted to our home? Please help! Thanks. :-)

JunoEskie - 6/25/2011 11:37:26 AM

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hooray! I'm glad she is doing well. There are several brands of the puppy spray. Since she had an accident in the house you may also want to invest in a product which destroys urine odors. Eliminating the odor will help to discourage urinating in that area, since dogs tend to urinate in the same locations. It is a coincidence that we would both be located in Gresham! Well, it is always nice to connect with other eskie enthusiasts. Do you plan on joining a club in the area? :) I invite you to join us at the park sometime. You can get my contact info on the KemEskimo link or our KemEskimo website.

kemeskies - 6/29/2011 11:55:26 AM

Thanks so much for your response! My American Eskimo has made progress since this post and had her first two potty experiences while we were out for a walk. She did have one (indoor) accident today, however. I will look for the pheromones spray. By the way, I clicked on your profile name in an attempt to respond to your reply, and I see you are an eskie breeder in Gresham, Oregon. I also live in Gresham...what a coincidence!

junoeskie - 6/27/2011 8:40:35 PM

You are doing the right thing. Your American Eskimo will potty for you eventually. She may still be adjusting to her new surroundings. We use a potty training method in which we spray a special formula of pheromones where we want our pups to potty. The good thing, as you pointed, out would be to keep potty out of the crate and house. Spraying the formula each time you go outside with her on the location you want her to go will help her get the right ideas. Also giving her a key word which lets her know it is potty time when she is going potty(this may come in handy later and will help train her to potty on voice command)

kemeskies - 6/27/2011 1:21:49 PM

If you are looking for American Eskimo Dog puppies for sale from reputable American Eskimo Dog breeders or to adopt an American Eskimo Dog from an American Eskimo Dog rescue then make sure you understand as much about the dog breeds you are interested in as you can. Every puppy breed is different. Begin your research by reading the breed information about the American Eskimo Dog puppy above. Search our dog breeds section to find American Eskimo Dog puppies, dogs and puppies that make great pets.