The American Eskimo dog or “Eskie” may cost an average of $600 to $800, but for a puppy with a champion bloodline, you can expect to pay between $1,000 to $2,000.1 Keep reading to learn more about this beautiful breed, their monthly costs, and the estimated lifetime cost of caring for an American Eskimo.
Characteristics of an American Eskimo
Adult weight:
Toy American Eskimo (Male): 6 to 10 pounds
Miniature American Eskimo (Male): 10 to 20 pounds
Standard American Eskimo (Male): 25 to 35 pounds
Adult height: 15 – 19 in.
Origin – United States
Life expectancy: 12 – 15 years
You may have done your research but just in case you haven’t and are looking to adopt an American Eskimo, here is a quick overview about the breed.
The American Eskimo, also known as the 'Eskie,' is a breed with origins tracing back to European spitz-type dogs that were brought to the United States in the early 20th century. Originally referred to as German Spitz, the breed later adopted the name American Eskimo, influenced by the widespread interest in Arctic explorations and its connection to the Eskimo or Inuit people. An intriguing detail about this breed is its historical use as a performer in travel shows or as a companion.2
The American Eskimo is a medium to small-sized dog with a double coat that is white like the snow. Eskies are great companions and are eager to please. They are intelligent creatures which makes them quick learners as well.
What is the Price of an American Eskimo?
The American Eskimo is known to be a friendly and loving dog breed. The best part is this breed can adapt themselves to different surroundings and can do well with apartment living.3 They need regular exercise which shouldn’t be difficult to introduce as they are an extremely playful and energetic dog breed.
Adoption: $200 – $350
The cost of adopting an American Eskimo depends on the age of the dog as well as the organization you decide to adopt from. Generally, adoption fees cover the cost of a dog’s initial care. An initial veterinary check-up may be recommended if it has not taken place before the adoption.
It’s essential to research all the various adoption center organizations and shelters locally. Adoption is a great way to provide a home for a loving pet at a more affordable price. If you choose to adopt your pet, check out our dog adoption checklist.
Monthly Costs for an American Eskimo
Diets: $20-$60
The amount of dog food consumed by an American Eskimo depends upon the size, age, and lifestyle of the pet. As a puppy, the American Eskimo needs to be fed more often. Once they are older, they need about 1-2 meals a day. High-quality commercial dog food may cost you $20-$60 a month. You should also consider adding in treats for good behavior, but make sure not to overdo them.
Grooming: $50-$100
American Eskimo dogs have a dense undercoat and a longer-haired outercoat, which makes them heavy shedders. Regular brushing 2-3 times per week can remove dead hairs and help keep the coat healthy and free of mats.3 Professional grooming services typically include ear cleaning, nail trimming, brushing, fur trimming, and bathing.
Medical Costs: $50-$150
Medical costs are an important set of expenses to keep in mind for any dog that you are planning to adopt. In the case of the American Eskimo, the costs generally vary based on a few factors. Regular veterinary check-ups can cost around $50-$150 per visit. These check-ups are vital to help maintain your pet’s health and to take precautionary actions to help prevent future illnesses.
Heartworm prevention as well as flea and tick preventatives are regular expenses that are recommended for preventive care. These may cost around $5-$15 based on the treatment. Puppies typically need more initial vet visits than adult dogs, and the initial medical expenses may be higher. These expenses may also vary based on the health conditions of your pet. If your pet is suffering from an underlying and ongoing condition, the expenses could be on the higher side. The best way to help take care of your pet is with preventive care to help maintain their health.
Insurance: $30-$100
Pet insurance helps cut down eligible costs in case your pet has an unexpected illness or accident. These policies usually offer coverage for accidents, illnesses, and emergencies. Some providers also offer preventive coverage as an add-on to help cover routine vet expenses. A few factors to keep in mind related to pet insurance premiums are the age of the dog, your deductible, your annual limit, and your reimbursement rate.
One-Time Costs for a Dog
Initial Costs: $700-$1500
The initial expense of an American Eskimo is their adoption or purchase cost, which can depend on the adoption shelter or location as well as the breeder. There will also be additional expenses for the supplies needed, like a dog collar, leash, food and water bowls, a bed, toys, grooming tools, and possibly a crate.
Microchipping: $25-$50
Microchipping your pet can cost about $25-50. This cost is recommended to help make sure that your pet can be brought back to you if they get lost. This simple procedure can help save your pet’s life.
Vaccines: $75-$200
In the first year of your puppy's life, the cost of vaccines can be between $75-$200. Core vaccinations are given to your pet to help protect them against potential diseases. Puppies are given vaccinations up to 16 weeks of age. They may need annual booster shots as they grow up which may cost up to $30 per shot.
Miscellaneous: $100-$150
Dog sitters and walkers are an expense to keep in mind in case you need someone to take care of your pet while you’re away or busy. You should keep aside around $100-$150 per year for additional miscellaneous expenses.
Lifetime American Eskimo Cost
Now that you know what the potential expenses are in the life of an American Eskimo, the total lifetime expense comes up to about $20,000-$30,000 depending upon the choices you make for food, beds, supplies, etc. In case your dog faces an unexpected medical condition, this cost may change. It’s best to keep some money aside as a reserve in case of an emergency.
Conclusion
American Eskimos or Eskies as we call them, are loving and loyal companions. They are extremely trainable and love to please their owners.3 These pets are not just a treat to look at but a great pet to have as they are protective of their families and can serve as great watchdogs. Go get your pet now!
Happy parenting to you and lots of love to your pup or your pup-to-be!
Mostly a tech person, always a pet person. I am dedicated to improving the lives of pets and their humans with technology. Off-duty, I enjoy writing about the misbehaving of computer programs and my two Aussiedoodles, Calvin and Hobbes.
“How Much Does an American Eskimo Dog Cost?” Dog Product Picker, https://www.dogproductpicker.com/american-eskimo-dog-cost, June 8, 2022.
“American Eskimo Dog,” American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/american-eskimo-dog, accessed Dec. 18, 2024.
“American Eskimo Dog,” Dog Breeds List, https://www.dogbreedslist.info/all-dog-breeds/american-eskimo-dog.html, accessed Dec. 18, 2024.
