American Eskimo Dog Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, UKC
About the American Eskimo Dog
The American Eskimo Dog is a strikingly beautiful white spitz that pairs a sharp, eager-to-please mind with a lively, affectionate personality. Despite the name, the breed was developed in the United States from German Spitz stock and once dazzled crowds as a circus performer, which hints at how quick and trainable it is. Eskies come in three sizes, so families can choose a lapdog-sized Toy or a sturdier Standard. They bond intensely with their people, thrive on mental games and tricks, and make alert, vocal watchdogs. Prospective owners should be ready for a heavy-shedding double coat and a dog that needs daily companionship and enrichment to stay happy.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
Exercise needsTypical
Energy levelHigher than most
TrainabilityDefining trait
Grooming effortHigher than most
SheddingDefining trait
BarkingDefining trait
Apartment fitTypical
Good with childrenHigher than most
Good with other dogsHigher than most
First-time ownersHigher than most
1 active listing
Search all puppies →Available now in:Pennsylvania (1)Related breeds:Italian EskimoEskimo SchnauzerEskimo PitEskimo ChinEskimo ChiCoton Eskimo
Where this breed shines
- Highly intelligent and one of the most trainable spitz breeds
- Devoted, affectionate family companion that bonds closely with its people
- Alert and watchful, making a naturally attentive watchdog
Things to consider
- Thick double coat sheds heavily and needs regular brushing
- Can be very vocal and prone to nuisance barking without training
- Needs daily companionship and mental enrichment or may become bored
History
The breed descends from the white German Spitz brought to the United States by European immigrants in the 1800s. Anti-German sentiment during World War I prompted a renaming to American Eskimo Dog. The dogs became popular fixtures in traveling circuses, where their agility and trainability were on full display. The American Kennel Club granted full recognition in 1995.
Temperament
Eskies are intelligent, alert, and affectionate companions who form deep attachments to their families. They are neither shy nor aggressive but tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them attentive watchdogs. Bright and eager to please, they need consistent training and daily mental stimulation to avoid boredom-driven barking.
Questions to ask a American Eskimo Dog breeder
- Are the parents OFA-tested for hips and patellar luxation?
- Have the parents had DNA testing for progressive retinal atrophy?
- How do you socialize puppies to reduce excessive barking and wariness?
Health considerations to discuss
Patellar luxation. Educational, non-diagnostic; OFA patella evaluation
Hip dysplasia. Educational, non-diagnostic; OFA hip screening
Progressive retinal atrophy. Educational, non-diagnostic; DNA test and ophthalmologist eye exam
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: AKC American Eskimo Dog breed overview · American Eskimo Dog Club of America · OFA health testing database — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any American Eskimo Dog litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a American Eskimo Dog puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the American Eskimo Dog listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How much do American Eskimo Dog puppies cost?
Listed puppies are priced at $350. Each breeder sets their own price, which varies with the puppy's age, lineage, and location.
How can I tell if a American Eskimo Dog breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.