The origin of American Eskimos is clouded in mystery. Despite the name, the American Eskimo does not belong to America. This breed is believed to have developed in Germany and was brought to the States later. With its ancestry in the spitz-type dogs, the Eskimo is known for its fox-like face and erect triangular ears. Their magnificent white coat makes them a sight to behold.
Despite the beautiful features and gentle disposition, this breed ranks 122 of 193 in breed popularity. This may be attributed to their similarity with their other spitz cousin. An Eskie is often confused with a Samoyed. A clear distinction between the two breeds is that the Samoyed is larger than the adult standard-sized Eskie.
The American Eskimo is a Nordic dog and not suited to live in an Indian environment. They are happy in colder weather and may do well in the country’s northern regions. That said, getting an Eskie as a pet entails much more than the adorable looks. This detailed guide is designed to help a potential Eskies parent estimate the financial, emotional, and physical costs of owning an American Eskimo dog in India.
Price of American Eskimo Dog and Puppy in India
Eskimos are well-suited for cold weather and are not very popular in India. Due to this, an American Eskimo price ranges from INR 60,000 to 70,000. However, the price varies based on location and breeder factors.
American Eskimo Dog
Characteristic | Description |
Breed Name | American Eskimo Dog |
Origin | Germany |
Size | Medium-Small (Toy, miniature and standard) |
Weight | Toy: 9-12 kg, Miniature: 9-15 kg, Standard: 18-20 kg |
Height | Toy: 33-43 cm, Miniature: 40-48 cm, Standard: 43-48 cm |
Coat | Double coat, long, thick and fluffy |
Grooming Needs | Regular grooming required, heavy shedding during shedding season |
Exercise Needs | Active and energetic, daily walks and playtime required |
Temperament | Alert, friendly, intelligent, trainable, protective, playful |
Suitability | Great family pets, excels in obedience and agility training |
Life Expectancy | 12-15 years |
Factors that Influence the Buying Price of American Eskimos in India
American Eskimo Age: Buying a Puppy Vs. an Old Dog
American Eskimos aged 6-8 weeks are highly energetic and playful. At this age, owners should institute obedience training and discourage barking and chewing tendencies to shape a well-behaved adult Eskie. Because this age is impressionable, any trauma caused and the bond formed will likely stick for a lifetime. Therefore, for new owners, it is essential to be vigilant and careful during training. The efforts at this stage will be rewarding once the puppies settle down.

Since young pups require immense effort and care, they’re not suitable for everyone. Older dogs with their hyperactivity behind them are calmer. However, Eskies are not couch potato dogs and won’t sit in your lap all day. Therefore, before choosing either option, it is recommended to inspect your lifestyle.
Puppies aged 6-8 weeks are more expensive than older dogs. Typically, the price goes down as the dog age.
Adopting an American Eskimo Vs. Buying
Due to the mediocre popularity of this breed, it may be challenging to locate an American Eskimo as a shelter. It may be a while before you find a reputable shelter and the Eskies of your dreams. Although, adopting becomes the more desirable option when you find one, as it is cheaper and more economical than buying a pup.
Buying is suitable for people with specific color requirements of the American Eskie. It is also quicker and easier to get your American Eskimo home. However, this comes at a high-end cost.

Fun Fact: In the 19th century, the American Eskimos became popular circus dogs.
Breeder Factor
In India, several laws admonish the illegal breeding of dogs. Breeders in the country must register with their respective state’s Animal Welfare Board. Enrolling with the Kennel Club of India is also mandatory to practice ethical breeding. That said, unethical practices concerning breeding dogs are not out of the ordinary in India. A buyer needs to know the ins and outs of the breed they want to bring home. There are multiple places to buy your Eskie; we’ve discussed the popular options below.

Buying an American Eskimo from Puppy Mills
(Please don’t go with this option)
The scam of puppy mills has been uncovered for a good reason. More people are aware of the horrific conditions in which the dogs are kept and bred. However, to completely stamp out the puppy mills’ existence, we must educate ourselves on the ploys of the mill merchants.
A puppy mill dog is likely to have the cheapest price tag. Mill merchants are reticent about showing the dog with the pup’s mother or letting you have a look at the breeding facility. These are critical to determining whether a dog has been ethically bred. We recommend thoroughly researching the breed you want to buy and verifying all documentation before finalizing the deal.
Buying an American Eskimo from Pet Shops
The vigilance and research required to source your American Eskimo ethically are essential. This makes the idea of window shopping for your Eskie desirable. However, most pet stores source their pets from puppy mills and doll them up to make you forget about the conditions the puppies were bred in. We advise against shopping from pet stores as this only fuels the puppy mills to keep running.
Buying an American Eskimo from Middleman or Brokers
A broker can easily locate an American Eskimo for you, despite the low popularity of the breed. Dog brokers charge a 10-20% commission making this option relatively expensive. However, a good broker can educate you on the breeding practices of breeders; they can verify documents and find you precisely the Eskie of your dream.
Buying an American Eskimo from Reputable breeders
Finding an ethical breeder is no easy task when you’re out to buy a dog. It is especially difficult for breeds low in popularity, such as the American Eskimo. Therefore, locating an ethical breeder may take you a while. Once you do, we advise taking all claims a breeder makes with a pinch of salt. When dealing with breeders, it is important to ascertain the breeder’s knowledge about the breed, as this is a sign of good breeders. Moreover, ethical breeders are dog lovers interested in finding a good home for their dogs; they ask you several questions to determine whether an Eskie is a right fit for you.
Buying from a breeder will likely cost you more than any other option, as they produce top-quality dogs and employ best breeding practices. Although, for a stress-free experience, you must buy your American Eskimo from them.
Questions to Ask a Breeder
Below are some questions you must ask your breeder to determine if you’re dealing with the right one:
- Do you practice with a breeding permit?
- What breeds do you specialize in?
- Is the American Eskimo the right dog for me?
- Are there any special requirements for the Eskie?
- What diet are the puppies on?
- Can I meet the mother and the littermates of the pup?
- Do you have the health records of the puppy?
- What are some pros and cons of owning an Eskie in India?
- Can I return the pup if I change my mind?
- How can I contact you if I face any issues in the future?
Gender
The males and females of the American Eskimo are difficult to tell apart at a glance. However, a practised eye can catch the difference between the coat of male and female Eskimos. Males tend to have thicker and more lavish coats than their female counterparts. There are only minimal differences in the temperament of the male and female Eskies. Gender does not affect the price of the Eskies significantly.
Size
The American Eskimo comes in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. The toys stand at 9-12 inches and weigh 4.5 kg in adulthood. The miniature is 12-15 inches and weighs 9 kg. The standard recognized breed size is 15-19 inches tall and weighing 13 kg. Because of the high popularity of tiny-sized dogs, you can expect to pay a lot more for a toy or miniature-sized American Eskimo than a standard one.
Mix Breed or Purebred
Designer dogs have become popular in recent times. These dogs are created by mixing two breeds either by traditional breeding methods or by introducing the gene for a desirable trait in the dogs. Some of the most sought-after Eskie mixes include Eskipoo (American Eskimo + Poodle), American Eagle Dog (American Eskimo + Beagle), Huskimo (Husky + American Eskimo), etc.
Due to its high popularity, better health, and alluring looks, a mixed-breed American Eskimo may sell for much more than a purebred American Eskimo.
Bloodline
Eskies descended from the prizewinner parents fetch higher prices than normal pet quality dogs. This is because of two reasons. Firstly, more and more dog lovers are eager to show their pets in dog shows. Secondly, the strict breed standards make for an easy disqualification of puppies. Even a litter of champion parents does not produce all show dogs. Often only 1-2 dogs in the litter are show-quality dogs. All these reasons drive up the prices of dogs with rich ancestry.

Coat Colours and Markings
The thick double coats of the American Eskimos are a common feature among the Nordic breeds. These coats helped them survive in the hard winters of the coldest regions on the planet.
The sterling white coats of the Eskies make the dogs a sight for sore eyes. But that’s not all the colors these angelic dogs come in. The white, cream, and white with light brown markings are some rare shades in this dog occurs in. Naturally, the Eskies in the rare shades sell for a lot more, and for a good reason. A white Eskie with biscuit markings is a sight to behold.
Location
Amerian Eskimos aren’t as popular as other dog breeds in India. This contributes to their rarity and high prices. Chances are you only find these dogs in metro cities. Expect to pay a hefty sum for these pups.
Certification and Warranties
A KCI-registered dog with proper health records and vaccination certificates sells for more. However, due to the easy falsification of documentation in India, we recommend exercising caution while dealing with any breed. Verifying documents is essential to avoid getting home an unhealthy Eskie.
Fun Fact: Eskimos were the first dogs to walk on a tight rope.
Yearly Maintenance Cost of owning an American Eskimo in India
To ensure the good health and happiness of your American Eskimo, it is important to consider the cost of owning one. These costs only begin at the purchase price. The maintenance of the dog includes grooming, health care, and food expenses. You are likely to incur a cost of INR 1,00,000 per year for the proper upkeep and maintenance of your American Eskimo.
Dog Food Factor
American Eskimos are medium-sized; they require a sizable amount of food to grow into active and healthy dogs. However, depending on the variety of the Eskie you buy, your food costs are likely to change. Naturally, a toy or miniature American Eskimo will eat much less than the breed’s standard size. Below we discuss the best diet and frequency for your Eskie.
Home Food vs Purchased food
The options are endless, from the BARF(Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) to the raw food diet. Deciding which works best may be tricky on your own; expert advice is a must. We recommend consulting the vet on the kind of diet best suitable for your Eskie puppy.
While most people agree homemade food is the safe and healthy option for your dog. The other popular and valid argument is that commercial food is breed specific and customized to fulfil the nutrient requirements of dogs of all ages. Choosing either may be tricky; therefore, we recommend giving your dog the best of both worlds. A complete homemade diet may fail to fulfil the dog’s requirements, while a complete commercial food diet may be expensive. Therefore, we recommend providing a mix of both. The monthly food costs of your Eskie may add up to INR 2,500-3,000.
Portion Size and Daily Frequency
The standard-sized adult American Eskie may go through 0.5-1.5 cups of dry kibble every day. It is best to portion this amount into two meals so your dog can have a sustainable breakfast and dinner routine. The above estimate is general, and the food consumption depends on various factors such as the age and weight of the dog. The chart below gives a general idea of the amount of food your Eskie should eat in a day.
Age | Weight (kg) | Cups/Day |
---|---|---|
12 Weeks | 3.4 | 1.3 |
14 Weeks | 4.2 | 1.6 |
16 Weeks | 5 | 1.8 |
17 Weeks | 5.3 | 1.3 |
5 Months | 6.3 | 1.4 |
6 Months | 7.4 | 1.6 |
7 Months | 8.2 | 1.7 |
8 Months | 8.9 | 1.9 |
9 Months | 9.4 | 1.9 |
10 Months | 9.8 | 2 |
11 Months | 10.1 | 2 |
12 Months | 10.4 | 2.1 |
2 Years | 11.2 | 1.8 |
3 Years | 11.2 | 1.8 |
4 Years | 11.2 | 1.8 |
Vet Factor
All purebred dogs suffer from a host of diseases specific to their breed. For the American Eskimo, these include progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), juvenile cataracts, tear staining, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, and pyruvate kinase deficiency. However, your Eskie doesn’t need to suffer from these diseases too. Eskies enjoy a long lifespan of 12-15 years; therefore, taking good care of the diet and regular vet visits are usually enough to keep your dog healthy. Your Eskies’ expected vet visit cost is estimated to be INR 5,000-10,000 per year.
Vaccination Cost
Dog vaccinations start as soon as they are 4-6 weeks old. The vaccinations administered at young age lay the groundwork for a well-developed and healthy Eskimo dog. The law requires vaccines like Canine Parvovirus, Leptospirosis, Canine Distemper, Rabies, and hepatitis. Typically, a vet provides a vaccination card that includes details like the name of the dose and the follow-up schedule. We recommend keeping on top of the appointments as it can be fatal for your dog. Each vaccination shot may cost INR 1,700-2,500.
Puppy Age | Core Vaccines | Non-Core Vaccines | Worms |
---|---|---|---|
6-8 Weeks | Distemper | Bordetella, Parainfluenza, Measles | |
10-12 Weeks | Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus | Coronavirus, Parainfluenza, Leptospirosis, Bordetella, Lyme disease | Begin Heartworm prevention medication monthly or bi-monthly |
14-16 Weeks | Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Rabies (required by law) | Parainfluenza, Coronavirus, Lyme disease, Leptospirosis | Begin/continue Heartworm prevention medication monthly or bi-monthly |
Adult (renewed every 1-3 years) | Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Rabies | Parainfluenza, Coronavirus, Leptotspirosis, Bordetella, Lyme disease | Continue Heartworm prevention medication monthly or bi-monthly |
Neutering or Spaying Surgery Cost
Breeders and pet parents alike recommend a neutering or Spaying procedure. Vets also recommend the procedure as it boosts the health of the Eskies and proves beneficial to them both behaviorally and physically.
As this procedure is surgical, it should only be performed under expert vet care. In the metros, you can expect to spend close to INR 12,000 for this procedure. While in the suburbs of India, this surgery may cost up to INR 4,000-6,000.
Deworming Cost
Worms can be contracted from the soil and often severely damage the dog. While we can avoid and take precautions against these worms through behavioral means, our canines can’t. Therefore, deworming your dog regularly becomes essential in maintaining the good health of your Eskie, and talking to the vet about the dosage and schedule is best as factors like age and a dog’s weight play an important role in determining the correct treatment for the dog. Fortunately, this procedure is inexpensive, and a tablet costs around INR 100.
Preventive Medications Cost
The light, fluffy coat of the American Eskimo can hide the numerous ticks and fleas. These infections are a constant source of nuisance for the dogs and may even be hurtful to the skin. Stocking up on ticks and flea powder is best to make the treatment easier. In addition, an ear drop is a must for fluffed dogs. Both essential items may cost up to INR 500.
American Eskimos are an active breed, and idleness is not their forte. Therefore, keeping their first-aid kit equipped with antiseptic spray, band-aids, and cotton is essential and may cost INR 500.
Housing and Confinement Cost
Crate training is viewed as unethical by some people. However, vets, breeders, and pet owners agree on the tangible benefits of crate training your dog. Ideally, a crate should be home within the home for your dog. In line with this, selecting a crate where your Eskies are comfortable is of utmost importance. 36-inch crate size is recommended for your Eskie. Equip the crate with a snuggly bed to ensure the sound sleep of your Eskie puppy. The crate is a one-time expenditure of INR 500-2,500, while the bed may cost up to INR 600-1,000.
Accessories Cost
Eskies are active and intelligent. They are considered one of the most intelligent dog breeds on the planet. However, this intelligence comes with a sense of freedom. Therefore, it may be difficult to control your dog unless they have been trained with the right tools. For this reason, choosing the right accessories for your American Eskie becomes important. Let’s help you with one such important purchase.
Collar Vs. Harness
Most dog lovers prefer using harnesses over collars, which is also rooted in sound logic. American Eskies, like other spitz breeds, are pullers with a tendency to wander if not restrained properly. A collar puts pressure on the dog’s throat, and prolonged use of a collar may lead to serious health issues for your Eskie. Therefore, a harness that supports the dog and gives you good control of your dog is an ideal tool to make the management of your Eskie easier. Such a harness may cost up to INR 600-1,000. Remember to give your Eskie proper leash training before taking them for a long walk.
Toys Cost
It is not wise to generalize the preferences of any dog; however, in the spitz-type breeds, chew toys are particularly popular. An American Eskimo is not unlike their cousins; if the dog isn’t barking, you will likely find them chewing something. Therefore, giving your Eskie some sturdy and durable toys to chew on is better. Puzzles and brain games may also be great for your Eskie as they are problem solvers and love to be mentally engaged. Depending on how much you want to spoil your pup, the monthly cost of the toy may add up to INR 250-500.

Grooming Cost
The American Eskimo’s maintenance is moderate, with emphasis on their fluffy white coat. To keep the coat light, airy, and untangled, it is important to brush as often as three times a week. As this breed is a heavy shedder, the brushing reduces the amount of fur lost. A wide-toothed comb is best for this breed.
Nail clippers, brushes, shampoo, and conditioners are some essential grooming supplies for this dog. The right tools can make a huge difference in the appearance of an Eskimo; we recommend investing in these essential supplies. A grooming kit with the above items can cost up to INR 500. The monthly cost of shampoo and conditioner may chalk up to INR 400.
Professional grooming services are popular among spitz-type dogs. A professional service may glam up your dog as you want, though haircuts aren’t common among this breed. A session like this may cost INR 500-1,000.
Walker Cost
American Eskimos are an active breed; they need a minimum of one hour of exercise daily. These dogs love hiking and outdoor activities that physically and mentally engage them. This makes daily walking vital for the health and happiness of your dog. Long walks with your American Eskimo are a great way to develop a deep bond with them. However, if you can’t walk your dog, hiring a professional dog walker is a must to meet the demands of this breed. The monthly charge for a dog walker is INR 2,500-5,000.
Training and Socialising Class Cost
American Skies have a friendly and gentle disposition; however, this should not fool you into skipping out on the dog’s training and socialization. American Eskimos have a barking tendency, and any dog needs to be socialized before adapting well to your lifestyle. Therefore, an Eskie pup’s training must not be delayed. Important things to remember while training your Eskie is to be always gentle but firm. An assertive owner will bring out the best in them. Professional training will cost anywhere between INR 5,000-7,000 per month.
Fun Fact: Due to the white and fluffy coat, the American Eskimo is often called “The Dog beautiful.”
Treat Cost
Rewards for good behavior are in every dog’s training regime. This technique helps build obedience in the dogs and enforces a positive attitude. Treats as rewards work well for an American Eskimo. As this breed needs constant mental stimulation, we recommend buying a treat dispenser that rewards the pup for solving a puzzle. You can expect to spend INR 250-500 monthly on treats for your Eskies. Homemade treats are a great option too!
Insurance Cost
Exotic breeds are vulnerable to several health issues living in different environments. They’re also targets for thievery. This is why insurance that covers health concerns, theft, and third-party liability is a must for every Eskie owner. The average annual insurance expense may fall between INR 6,000-12,000.
Travel Cost
Frequent travelers prefer to take their Eskies on road trips and hikes. All of which this active breed revels in. For greater distances, Indian railways are better suited, considering the price and comfort of your Eskie.
Travelling by air may be costly, and the prices depend on the dog’s weight, travel distance, and the choice of airline. All airlines require the health and rabies certificates of the dogs. For domestic travel, you can expect your expenses to be within INR 20,000. On the other hand, international travel is a bit more pricey; a ticket may cost you INR 2-3 lakhs.
Daycare Cost
American Eskies and alone time do not go well. Therefore, daycare facilities are ideal for those owners who spend most of the day at work. Daycare provides dog boarding, food, and a play area. Along with any special requirements listed by the owners. Though daycare charges vary based on location, you can expect the range to be within INR 500-2,000 per day.
Registration Cost
In India, the INKC maintains the pedigree of dog breeds. Pet owners and breeders alike are encouraged to get their American Eskimo registered. Enrolling with the INKC is a one-time expenditure. It varies based on the information available about the dog’s parents and whether you are a member. Expect to spend INR 400-1,000 for the registration of your dog. Microchipping is another essential that you must not miss out on. It costs INR 1,000.
Miscellaneous
Food containers, food and water dish, pee cleaner, a poop bag, etc., are other essential items you must stock up on before bringing your Eskie home. The average cost of these items is within the range of INR 2,500-4,000.
Hidden and Related Costs of American Eskimo Puppy Ownership in India
Estimating the financial costs of owning an American Eskimo is easier than the emotional and physical costs. Like all dogs, this breed comes with its unique set of requirements that, when left unfulfilled, result in an unhappy and rather destructive dog.
An Eskimo puppy is hyperactive and keen on exploring the world by itself. This is essential for their growth and development. However, this may not be good news for the innocent items around your house. The Eskie is a barker and a chewer, and it may take a while to teach them the ground rules for what is chewable and how much growling is permissible. Achieving this feat is not easy, as the Eskies are strong-willed and stubborn due to their intelligence. An owner that is consistent in the training and firm in speech will receive the love and respect of the Eskie. We advise our readers to analyze their limits before committing to a high-energy, strong-willed dog like the American Eskimo.

Important Things to Consider Before Buying A American Eskimo in India
The charm of fluffy white dogs is irresistible, and understandably so. However, responsible dog lovers rushing the decision before knowing the tough-to-swallow facts of the breed is a no-go. Therefore, below we’re presenting a few facts for you to review and make a better decision.
- American Eskimos are barkers and chewers; during the first few weeks of training, get ready for your favourite pair of shoes to be your Eskies’ favourite chew toy.
- This breed is high-spirited, lively, and far away from a couch potato dog. Expect to be on your toes to fulfil the energy demands of this pup.
- Eskies are people dogs and do not do well alone. The high separation anxiety in this breed leads to destructive behaviours.
- A bored Eskies is a notorious Eskies. This breed demands to be stimulated mentally and physically, which makes them unsuitable for passive owners.
- This breed tends to be stand-offish towards strangers if not properly socialized.
Benefits Of Bringing An American Eskimo Puppy To Home
If you have persevered so far and are still determined to get an American Eskimo home, let us tell you what a joy they can be. Below are some of the many benefits of owning an American Emiko:
- Eskies are an intelligent dog breed making them relatively easy to train.
- American Eskimos are a healthy breed and enjoy a long lifespan of 12-15 years.
- This breed is cheerful and lively most of the time. Moreover, the conversations you have with your American Eskimo will leave you in splits.
- Usually, Eskies are great with other pets and children in the house. However, no dog should be left unsupervised with young children.
- They make an excellent addition to a family as their affection and love extend to everyone who pets and cuddles with them.
FAQs
Do American Eskimos bark a lot?
American Esmikos are vocal dogs who love conversing with people. These conversations manifest themselves in barks, growls, and howls. However, the Eskies can be trained to bark less.
Are American Eskies lazy?
No, American Eskimos are high-energy dogs requiring at least one hour of exercise daily. This dog revels in outdoor activities and loves to play.
Are American Eskimos good for first-time dog owners?
Yes, the Eskies are friendly and gentle and make great family pets.
Are American Eskimos aggressive?
Though the breed is generally friendly, they may be suspicious of strangers and tend to welcome them with barks. However, they warm up quickly when introduced.
Can American Eskimos live in hot weather?
This Nordic breed is better suited to colder regions of the planet. However, they are not completely unadaptable to hot weather. That said, these dogs shouldn’t be kept in the hot summer sun of India for too long.
Summing it Up
American Eskimos aren’t lap dogs, and they refuse to stay idle. This breed is not well-suited for passive owners as the Eskie is happiest when engaging in a mentally and physically stimulating task. It is necessary to bring home a dog that can adjust to your lifestyle, as when the Eskies are bored, they tend to be destructive. That said, when the dog’s needs are met, they’re adorable pets and affectionate towards everyone in the family.