All About the Eskipoo: Choosing a Eskipoo
The Eskipoo is a cross between the American Eskimo dog and the European Poodle. On average, the Eskipoo weighs between 10 and 20 pounds, and it stands about 9 to 15 inches tall. The average life expectancy of the Eskipoo is about 10 to 13 years. This is a very cheerful and affectionate dog with a happy outlook on life. The Eskipoo makes a great companion. They love human companionship and will be sad to see you go. Because of their energetic nature and their tendency to bark, this breed, though small in size, may not be the best choice for apartment living. This breed has the tendency to bark at any unfamiliar sounds, and when left alone for long periods of time.
Breed Characteristics
The Eskipoo gets its characteristics from both the American Eskimo dog and the Poodle.
American Eskimo
According to the American Kennel Club, the American Eskimo dog combines striking good looks with a quick and clever mind in a total brains-and-beauty package. Neither shy nor aggressive, Eskies are always alert and friendly, though a bit conservative when making new friends. This breed is always eager to please. The American Eskimo dog has striking good looks, with beautiful white hair and black eyes. This soft, fluffy dog comes in three different sizes – standard, miniature and toy. The American Eskimo dog is very clever and kid-friendly. On the downside, this dog is a barker and he sheds. This dog may not be the best choice for homes with small children.
For centuries, the Poodle has been one of the most popular breeds in the world and a symbol of elegance and opulent luxury. The Poodle is associated with France, but many countries have laid claim to the breed. Available in three different sizes and many different colors, there is a Poodle for every taste. The Poodle is a pleasant dog that loves constant company. This dog hates to be alone and prefers the company of people instead of other dogs. The breed also hates to be ignored and does not like being thought of or treated as “just a dog.” They make excellent pets for children as well as the elderly. To learn more about the Poodle, go to Choosing a Poodle.
With a mixture of characteristics from the American Eskimo dog and the Poodle, the Eskipoo may require a little patience. It is a smart dog that is pretty easily trained. While they are highly intelligent and eager to please, Eskipoos can also be a bit stubborn. Be patient. Use positive reinforcement and rewards to teach the Eskipoo that you are the leader. To learn more about training your Eskipoo, go to Training Your Puppy.
The most common color for the Eskipoo breed is white, but you may also see some Eskipoos in cream, gray, brown or black. Some Eskipoos will have solid coats with patches of another color.
The amount of shedding and the type of grooming required depends on the type of coat your Eskipoo has. It can be long and thick like an Eskimo dog, curly like a Poodle, or a little of both. Regardless of which type of coat they have, the Eskipoo coat is quite dense. Eskipoos will require plenty of brushing to keep tangles or mats under control. Brushing your Eskipoo 4 to 5 times per week is recommended. This hypoallergenic breed is also recommended for owners with allergies.
Recommendations
Because of their dense coats, Eskipoos do well in cooler weather and do not tolerate warm weather as well.
This small dog is smart, affectionate and easy to train. However, the breed can suffer from separation anxiety and craves constant attention.
With a cheerful and loving disposition, this playful breed is great with children, seniors, singles, families and other pets. They may be a bit reserved around strangers and they may bark at them.
This dog loves to play and will continue to play like a puppy well into its adulthood.
The Eskipoo is a high-energy breed which will require plenty of exercise. They love a good walk and some playtime in the backyard. Make sure to have plenty of toys on hand to keep your Eskipoo entertained.
The Eskipoo loves being in the company of humans and hates to be left alone. This is not the right dog for you if you travel or work long hours. When left alone, the Eskipoo may become destructive or bark excessively.
This is a healthy breed that experiences very few health issues. There is the potential for dental, ear and eye issues such as retinal dysplasia, corneal ulcers, and glaucoma.
To learn more about Poodle mixes, go to Oodles of Fun: These Breeds Are Dogs Mixed with Poodles.