Eskapoo

Description:

The Eskapoo (also known as Eskipoo) was created by crossing two breeds: The American Eskimo Dog and a Poodle. Hence, the Eskapoo is a designer dog, which is becoming increasingly popular. The Eskapoo is not recognized by the AKC, as it is considered to be a hybrid breed (designer breed).

Height:  9-16 inches  Weight: 8-20 pounds  Lifespan: 10-12 years

Characteristics:

The Eskapoo should be well-built, compact dog of small or medium-sized. He is hardy, strong and muscular, with a lively and expressive little face.

Character:

Eskapoos are affectionate, gentle, loving and cheerful dogs. This breed gets along very well with older children, other dog breeds and other pets, providing that they grew up together in the same household. This designer dog is very focused his family, and he gets particularly attached to his master. If left neglected for long, this dog’s behavior will become progressively worse. 

Moreover, Eskapoos will bark incessantly. Dogs of this breed are very suspicious of strangers, and if feel threatened by any unusual sound, they will immediately inform you of this.

Coat / Care:

The Eskapoo has a double coat, which protects it from all atmospheric effects. The outer layer can be very curly, straight or slightly wavy. The undercoat is soft, dense and closer to the dog’s body. Depending on the coat type, representatives of this breed may require either a professional hairdresser or simply a regular combing to prevent the hair from tangling and matting. 

Ears require special care in order to avoid possible infection and inflammatory processes. Hence, the Eskapoo’s ears should be checked regularly and kept clean.

Health Problems:

The Eskapoos most typical diseases are progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), epilepsy, diabetes, canine hip dysplasia and different skin problems. The Eskapoo has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years.

Weight / Height

The male Eskapoo hybrid breed’s height is around 10 – 16 inches and weighs around 10 and 20 pounds. Female Eskapoo dogs can reach a size from 9 – 16 inches and weighs between 8 and 18 pounds.

Training:

It is recommended to carry out early socialization and the general course of obedience. Since both American Eskimos and Poodles have a propensity for barking, their successor must be restrained from this bad habit. Do not apply too rude or oppressive teaching methods, since the Eskapoo will not respond to such approach. As a matter of fact, education should be based on firmness, fairness, patience and consistency.

Activity:

Dogs of this breed thrive best in the city apartment, on the condition that they get enough physical activity and mental stimulation. Nevertheless, a small or medium-sized yard, where the Eskapoo will have enough space for hiking, is preferable. However, Eskapoos are very fond of walking on a leash, and all sorts of family activities.

Photo credit: Stephanie Wallace/Flickr