The Australian Eskimo is a mix between an Australian Shepherd and an American Eskimo. They have a white coat with brown or black patterns, often dotted or speckled. While they don’t shed a lot, they do need regular grooming because of their wavy and rough coats.
Although they are primarily companion animals with herding instincts from the Australian Shepherd, Australian Eskimos are also playful and friendly. They are great with children and extremely loyal to their owners. However, they are not the best watchdogs as they are not known for barking at intruders. With some patience, they can be trained. Additionally, they can adapt well to both hot and cold climates as they are not sensitive to weather conditions.
Below, we look at Australian Eskimo dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Australian Eskimo, characteristics, and must-see facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Australian Eskimos!
| Dog Breed | Australian Eskimo |
| Size | Medium |
| Weight | 35-52 lbs (average) |
| Height | 19-23″ (average) |
| Location | United States |
| Ancestry | Australian Shepherd, American Eskimo |
| Date of Origin | 1990s |
| Group | Companion |
| Life Expectancy | 11-15 years |
| Price | $600 – $800 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
The name of this breed, the Australian Eskimo, is a combination of its parent breeds – the Australian Shepherd and the American Eskimo. The Australian Shepherd was originally bred in the United States in the 1840s for herding livestock. It is a highly intelligent and loyal working dog, with Spanish Sheepdogs as its ancestors. These dogs were brought to America by Basque shepherds who migrated in the 19th century. Many Australian Eskimos are registered with the Australian Shepherd Club of America and are commonly referred to as Aussies or Little Blue Dogs. They are known for their good temperament and are highly valued for their working abilities.
On the other hand, American Eskimos have their origins in Germany and belong to the Spitz family. Originally known as the American Spitz, their name was changed to American Eskimo in 1917 in an effort to distance the breed from its German heritage. These dogs were popular performers in circuses, often praised for their beauty. Some even called them “the dog beautiful. ” They gained popularity for their ability to perform tricks, dance to music, and interact with clowns in the Barnum and Bailey Circus. They come in Toy, Miniature, and Standard sizes, but regardless of their size, they are known for their confident and assertive nature. The American Eskimo breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1995. Originally bred as working dogs on farms, they possess great agility and excellent herding instincts. Some American Eskimos are also utilized as guard dogs and for narcotics detection.
Overall, the Australian Eskimo combines the intelligence and working abilities of the Australian Shepherd with the beauty and agility of the American Eskimo. While information on the breed’s origin is limited, these dogs are known for their loyalty, good temperament, and versatility in various tasks, making them both excellent working dogs and beloved companions.
🐕 Australian Eskimo Appearance
Male Australian Eskimo dogs may weigh up to 60 pounds and grow as tall as 40 inches, making them a pretty big breed of dog. They frequently have a variety of markings, some of which might be speckled, and their coats are fairly rough and typically wavy. Many of the traits exhibited by the parent breeds are probably going to be present in your pet. Australian Shepherds have almond-shaped eyes that are bright, expressive, and usually brown or amber, however occasionally they might have blue eyes. The ears are trapezoidal, of average size, and have a slightly rounded tip. They have a nose that gently taper into a rounded tip and robust white teeth. Their oval-shaped paws are joined by a straight or dockable tail. The medium-length coat is available in red or black tricolor, blue or red merle, and white and/or tan markings. American Eskimos have tall triangular ears, dark eyes that are somewhat oval in appearance, and white fluffy, straight double coats. They frequently have medium to dark brown tear streaks underneath their eyes. The alert, acute, and brilliant countenance of an American Eskimo is well-known. The jaw is powerful and has tightly spaced teeth, and the snout is large. They have round paws and carry their tails up over their backs.
| 👀 Eye Color | Varies |
| 🐽 Nose Color | N/A |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Ranges |
⚡ Fun Fact: Australian Eskimo dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Australian Eskimo
Australian Eskimos are loyal and clever dogs. They are considered to be loving toward their owners and are exuberant and energetic. Due to the fact that they don’t always bark at outsiders, they are not thought of as the ideal watchdogs to own. They do have a herding mentality because to their Australian Shepherd pedigree, but they are more playful and make terrific family dogs. Similar to any new dog joining a household, it will be a good idea to take them to training to aid in their development of positive animal socialization skills. Australian Eskimos are known to require a modest amount of training, but owners who continue will be rewarded. Given that the Australian Eskimo is a cross between an American Eskimo and an Australian Shepherd, their temperaments will be pretty similar. American Eskimos are fine with other dogs, cat-friendly, and ideal for new owners, but Australian Shepherds thrive on human company and love to please. They are excellent with kids as well.
🤝 Are Australian Eskimos Friendly or Aggressive?
Australian Eskimo dogs tend to get along well with other pets, although they may not be very friendly towards strangers. However, they are known to be very kid-friendly and enjoy being around children. While they are only moderately friendly towards cats, they are generally dog-friendly and can be a good choice if you want to have multiple dogs or participate in dog meetups. Additionally, Australian Eskimos are considered one of the best breeds for elderly individuals, making them a suitable companion for older people.
This breed is known for being:
- Active
- Loving
- Independent
- Energetic
- Protective
- Alert
- Intelligent
- Friendly
- Affectionate
- Good-natured
🐩 Australian Eskimo Care & Maintenance
The Australian Eskimos require routine brushing to maintain their nice looks, but they are rather simple to care for. Try to brush them twice a week at the very least. In order to prevent the dog from scratching since they are prone to allergies, it is a good idea to cut the dog’s fur in the summer and make sure their tick and flea medicine is current. Both of its parent breeds and the Australian Eskimo are not hypoallergenic. All dogs require regular dental care, therefore it’s crucial to start young and clean your dog’s teeth every day so it develops a habit. Maintaining your Australian Eskimo should include regular nail trimming and ear cleaning. Numerous health issues can affect Australian Eskimos. To prevent exorbitant veterinarian care costs, get pet health insurance right now. You may compare policies from renowned firms like Figo and Spot using our tool for pet insurance. With only a few clicks, find your pet’s “pawfect” plan!
Australian Eskimo dogs have a higher than average tendency to shed their fur. This shedding is a normal part of their hair growth cycle. The amount and frequency of shedding can vary depending on the dog’s health and the specific breed. If you prefer to avoid the hassle of frequent vacuum cleaning, it may be worth considering a different breed instead of getting a puppy from the Australian Eskimo breed. Additionally, it is recommended to give these dogs a bath every 6-8 weeks to maintain their hygiene.
🍖 Food: We recommend few cups daily, costing you about $0.49 – $1.49 daily, or roughly $30.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Australian Eskimo dogs need a lot of exercises. Long walks should be on a daily schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly few miles per week, which equates to about 15 – 35 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: Australian Eskimo dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
❤️🩹 Australian Eskimo Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Australian Eskimo Dog Breed can be:
- Patellar Luxation
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Hip Dysplasia
- Epilepsy
- Addison’s Disease
While minor concerns include:
- Dental Disease
🤧 Important: Is Australian Eskimo hypoallergenic? No.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Australian Eskimo.
⚡ Australian Eskimo Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Australian Eskimo a great choice for families with young children?
The Australian Eskimo is a great choice for families with young children because they are known to be good with kids and very affectionate. They love to play and are generally gentle and patient with children.
Is the Australian Eskimo breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
The Australian Eskimo breed is not considered suitable for apartment living due to their high energy levels and need for regular exercise. They require a lot of space to run and play.
How much exercise does a Australian Eskimo require compared to other breeds?
The Australian Eskimo requires a moderate amount of exercise compared to other breeds. They are energetic and playful, so daily walks and playtime are necessary to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.
Is the Australian Eskimo breed known for being good with other pets?
The Australian Eskimo breed is known for being good with other pets, including dogs and cats. However, proper socialization is important to ensure positive interactions with other animals.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Australian Eskimo?
Other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Australian Eskimo include the American Eskimo and the Australian Shepherd. These breeds have similar temperaments and grooming needs.
What are the common health issues that Australian Eskimos are prone to?
Australian Eskimos are prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and eye problems. Regular vet check-ups and a healthy diet are important to maintain their overall well-being.
Are Australian Eskimos known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Australian Eskimos are considered moderately easy to train. They are intelligent and eager to please, but may need some patience and consistency from their owners to achieve desired results.
Are Australian Eskimos more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Australian Eskimos can be prone to separation anxiety if not properly trained and socialized. Like any breed, it is important to gradually introduce them to being alone and provide mental stimulation when left alone.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Australian Eskimo that are suitable for people with allergies?
There are other hypoallergenic dog breeds similar to the Australian Eskimo that are suitable for people with allergies. Some examples include the Poodle, Bichon Frise, and Portuguese Water Dog.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Australian Eskimo are best for individuals or families with limited space?
Dog breeds similar in size to the Australian Eskimo that are suitable for individuals or families with limited space include the Shetland Sheepdog, Corgi, and Beagle. These breeds are smaller but still have plenty of energy and require regular exercise.
Is the Australian Eskimo breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Australian Eskimo breed is known to be good with children, including those with special needs. They are gentle, patient, and affectionate, making them suitable companions for children with varying needs.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Australian Eskimo?
The grooming needs of the Australian Eskimo are moderate. Their coats are wavy and a bit harsh, requiring regular brushing to prevent matting. They are moderate shedders, so some level of shedding can be expected, but not excessive compared to other breeds.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Australian Eskimo dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
