Have you ever looked into a pair of deep, intelligent eyes and wondered what is going on in that furry head? Well, there is a good chance those eyes belong to an American Eskimo Dog. And here’s a fact you might not know, despite their name, these dogs are not from Alaska. Rather, they’re actually part of the Spitz family, which has roots in Germany.
With their stunning white coat, fluffy tail, and playful nature, the American Eskimo Dog, commonly known as “Eskies,” are a sight to behold. These dogs aren’t just for show, they’re great companions, highly trainable, and come in three size varieties – standard, miniature, and toy. Eskies’ history as a circus performer in the 19th century is a testament to their quick learning and love for entertaining their humans.
So, does this make them a good first dog? It’s a yes and no situation. Let’s explore why American Eskimo Dogs could be the perfect fit for some new dog owners, but maybe not for others.
First off, let’s start looking at what works in favor of the American Eskimo Dog as a potential first dog.
One of the first things that attract people to Eskies is their stunning appearance. It’s like having a mini polar bear in your home. But Eskies are not just good looking; they are friendly, affectionate, and are always ready with a lot of love to give. They are enthusiastic creatures, great with kids and have a knack for fitting into any household given that they have been properly introduced and socialized.
Their intelligence is another strong selling point. Eskies are renowned for their quick thinking and love for problem-solving. This is a dog that can learn commands easily. If you are a new dog owner interested in training your own pup, the American Eskimo Dog might make it a fun process for you.
American Eskimo Dogs are also about medium-sized dogs (for the standard variant), making them suitable for most living situations. Whether it’s an apartment or a house with a yard, they can adapt. Plus, these dogs aren’t overly dependent. They love their humans but also have a certain sense of independence.
Now, let’s explore certain points that might make an American Eskimo Dog a challenging first pet.
One thing you should know about Eskies is that they have energy, and lots of it. They need daily exercise not just to stay fit, but also to keep their intelligent minds busy. So, if you have a busy work schedule or aren’t prepared for daily walks or play sessions, the Eskie may not be the best fit for you.
Though these dogs are extremely trainable, they also have a stubborn streak and can be manipulative. You need to be confident, assertive, and patient. This is where first-time owners might struggle. It’s not that first-time owners can’t handle an Eskie, but it demands a significant investment of time and effort.
Further, Eskies are known to be barkers. They have a strong instinct to protect their family, leading them to be wary of strangers, which can lead to excessive barking. This means you need to put work into proper training and socialization.
Speaking of upkeep, don’t let their coats deceive you. Yes, they are beautiful, but they also require regular grooming. Eskies shed throughout the year with a heavy shedding season in spring and fall.
So, is an American Eskimo Dog a good first dog?
In conclusion, it really depends on the lifestyle and commitment level of the potential owner. If you have time, are ready to provide ample exercise, and open to the effort needed in terms of grooming and training needs, an American Eskimo could indeed make a great first dog.
However, if you are looking for a low-energy, low-maintenance dog, then an Eskie may not be the best choice for you as your first dog.
It’s essential to understand that every American Eskimo, like every dog, is an individual. While they may share common traits, their personalities can differ greatly. Regardless of whether it’s your first dog or not, choosing to bring any pet into your home should always be a well-researched and thoroughly considered decision. No matter the breed, having a dog is a huge responsibility. But for the right person, the love and loyalty an American Eskimo Dog can provide is, beyond a doubt, worth the effort.
