How to Groom an American Eskimo Dog

The American Eskimo Dog is a fluffy white Spitz-type dog that is a member of the Non-Sporting group. There are Toy, Miniature and Standard varieties. They have spiky, triangular ears which stand erect on their heads and a long tail that curls over on to their back. They have a voluminous coat which is usually white as snow, sometimes with biscuit or cream markings mixed in. The coat needs a full grooming every 8 weeks.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Natural bristle brush
• Pin brush
• Metal combs
• Scissors
• Thinning shears

1. Brush out the cottony coat at least twice a week with a natural bristle brush. If needed, use a pin brush and metal combs to remove tangles or knots. When they are shedding, brush your American Eskimo Dog every day. In general, they shed an average amount of hair.
2. Clip the whiskers with scissors if you desire. This isn't necessary, but many prefer the whisker free look.
3. Trim stray hairs from the feet to the hocks with thinning shears. Trim hairs underneath the feet with scissors.
4. Check the inner ear canal for overgrown hair, which you should pluck. Don't trim the hair on the outer ear, as this provides protection.

Tips & Warnings

• The American Eskimo Dog is a Nordic dog which is closely related to the German Spitz. In fact, they were brought to the U.S. as German Spitzes, but the anti-German sentiment during World War I caused them to be re-named. These days, dog fanciers consider them an entirely separate breed.
• American Eskimo Dogs have a life expectancy of at least 15 years.
• Pay special attention to the dog's eyes and tear ducts.
• American Eskimo Dogs are especially susceptible to hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy. If you don't check it carefully, this dog's coat can become infested with fleas which causes dermatitis.