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How to Care for an American Eskimo Dog

Contributor
By Jamie Robertson
eHow Contributing Writer
(2 Ratings)
Minature American Eskimo Dog
Minature American Eskimo Dog

The American Eskimo Dog is a playful and affectionate dog. The breed comes in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. The most distinguishing feature of this breed is its snowy white coat. American Eskimo Dogs warn their owners of approaching strangers with a distinct bark, but they quickly become friendly once introduced to new humans or animals. This dog does extremely well with children and does quite well in apartment settings. With the proper care and training, American Eskimo Dogs have been known to live more than fifteen years.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Dog Brush
  • Undercoat Rake
  • Lightweight Dog Leash
  • Dog Collar
  • Dog Toothbrush
  • Dog Toothpaste

    How to Care for an American Eskimo Dog

  1. Step 1

    Brush your American Eskimo Dog on a weekly basis. The coat of the American Eskimo breed is quite thick and can become easily matted. Brushing will help prevent tangles and keep the coat looking shiny and healthy. The American Eskimo Dog typically sheds one to two times each years. While shedding, it may be useful to use an undercoat rake to remove all the loose hairs.

  2. Step 2

    Walk your American Eskimo Dog on a daily basis. American Eskimo Dogs need regular physical activity in order to prevent obesity and to prevent boredom. When you walk your pet, use a lightweight collar and leash to avoid excess strain on the neck muscles. Time spent playing in the backyard or a park can also serve as quality exercise for your American Eskimo.

  3. Step 3

    Provide your American Eskimo Dog with plenty of appropriate play toys, especially if you are going to be away or occupied. American Eskimo Dogs are inquisitive animals with big imaginations. If your pet is not provided with toys, it is likely to seek out and destroy household items. Always keep potentially dangerous or poisonous items out of reach.

  4. Step 4

    Feed your American Eskimo Dog a healthy diet of dog food and avoid feeding it table scraps. When buying dog food, look for one that has meat, poultry, or fish listed as one of the first ingredients. A nutritious diet is one of the most important things you can do to ensure that your American Eskimo Dog does not become obese.

  5. Step 5

    Brush your American Eskimo Dog's teeth on a daily basis to prevent tartar build up and gum disease. Use a dog toothbrush and dog toothpaste to gently brush the fronts and backs of all your pet's teeth. Do not worry about your pet swallowing the toothpaste, it is specially designed to be swallowed by dogs.

Tips & Warnings
  • Use the time your spend brushing your American Eskimo Dog's teeth and coat to bond with your pet.
  • Never use human toothpaste to brush your American Eskimo Dog's teeth. Human toothpaste can be dangerous if swallowed, and dogs are not capable of spitting it out.

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