What's the Best Dog Food for American Eskimo Dogs?
As one of the most active dog breeds, American Eskimos have very specific nutritional and caloric needs that should be taken into consideration when selecting the right dog food. With the potential of living a long, healthy life, proper nutrition can help support these dogs being their fun-loving, intelligent, and loyal selves!
AKC Classification: Non-Sporting
Exercise Required: 45 minutes/day
Ideal Weight
Healthy Toy Adult: 6-10 lbs
Healthy Miniature Adult: 10-20 lbs
Healthy Standard Adult: 25-35 lbs
Breed Summary
Originally known as the American Spitz and thought to be descended from working farm dogs in Germany, the American Eskimo breed was not officially registered with the AKC until the 1990s. These highly active and intelligent dogs are playful, loyal, and energetic. They would make a great addition to families with children and, with proper socialization, can even become warm-welcoming to strangers. Separation anxiety and excessive barking can become an issue, but only if not properly trained. American Eskimos are very smart, quick and like to be mentally challenged; however, are usually quite easy to train - when they aren’t being stubborn or indulging their independent streak. With 3 different sizes (standard, miniature, and toy) ranging from 6-35 lbs, most American Eskimos would suffice living in an apartment only if they get plenty of time for exercise and play. Due to their natural curiosity and enjoyment of training activities, American Eskimos also excel at agility training and other sports.
Physical Traits
Small frame under fluffy hair, happy face, upright gait
Personality Traits
Child-friendly, loving, trainable
Health Considerations for American Eskimos
While some standard American Eskimos can be on the larger size, the breed is still suspectable to many of the health issues that commonly plague smaller dogs. They are also susceptible to becoming overweight, so proper diet and exercise is essential for an American Eskimo. However, obesity can be secondary to hypothyroidism, which this breed is prone to. Furthermore, being overweight can exacerbate joint issues. With an average lifespan of 12-15 years, many American Eskimos live long, healthy lives. As highly active dogs, this breed needs lots of nutritional and caloric support.
Eye Problems
American Eskimos are susceptible to hereditary Juveline Cataracts and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), so foods with nutrients that support eye health are good.
Bone & Joint Issues
Joint Problems: Like many of their small-dog friends, American Eskimos can develop a variety of common joint problems including Luxating Patella, Hip Dysplasia and Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease, but feeding them a dog food with the following nutrients can help:
Dental Problems
Like many breeds, American Eskimos are known to develop dental problems like Gum Disease and Oral Infections, so we recommend that their food and supplements address this. Learn more about how to take care of your dog's teeth.
Endocrine Disorders
American Eskimos seem to be more likely than other breeds to develop problems with their endocrine system including Hypothyroidism and Addison’s Disease. Thankfully these issues can often be minimized with a healthy diet.
Complete a nutritional assessment to view individualized diet recommendations specifically for your pet.
Foods We Recommend: American Eskimo Puppies
How long do American Eskimo dogs need puppy food?
Until they're 12 months old
Known for being especially rambunctious puppies, American Eskimos carry plenty of playful energy in those growing little bodies. During their early months, your pet will need extra nutritional support and a calorically-dense food - like the foods below - to help them keep up.
Foods We Recommend: American Eskimo Adults
When do American Eskimo dogs become adults?
12 months old
To prevent obesity and encourage a healthy, active lifestyle, adult dog food for your American Eskimo should contain plenty of calories while packing a nutritional punch. As a highly intelligent breed, American Eskimos can also benefit from ingredients that support brain development.
Foods We Recommend: American Eskimo Seniors
When do American Eskimo dogs become seniors?
7-10 years old
In their senior years, your active American Eskimo will most likely begin to mellow out. Caloric requirements decrease with age, but proper nutritional support is still critical. Any of the foods below would be a high-quality choice.
Affiliate Disclosure
We do not accept money to recommend pet foods. However, we do receive referral fees from online retailers (such as Chewy or Amazon) on qualifying purchases. Our recommendations are neutral, and diet recommendations are made without considering whether we will receive a referral fee.