At a glance
- American Eskimos are prone to dental disease by age two, requiring daily brushing and annual professional cleanings
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) causes gradual blindness, making genetic testing crucial before breeding
- Joint issues like patellar luxation and hip dysplasia can be managed with weight control and supplements
- Spinal conditions including IVDD and degenerative myelopathy may require genetic screening and supportive care
You might notice your American Eskimo developing bad breath earlier than expected, or perhaps they're showing reluctance to jump onto the couch they once bounded onto effortlessly. These seemingly minor changes often signal the breed-specific health issues that responsible owners need to understand. While these dogs are generally healthy, certain conditions appear more frequently in the breed, and early recognition makes all the difference in management and quality of life.
Many American Eskimo owners worry when they first learn about these potential health concerns. The good news is that understanding what to watch for, combined with proactive care, can help you catch problems early and work effectively with your veterinarian to address them.
Dental disease strikes early and often
When it comes to dental health in American Eskimos, the statistics are sobering. Many dogs in this breed develop dental disease by age two, a significantly higher rate than seen in many other breeds. You'll likely notice the first signs as persistent bad breath that doesn't improve after eating or drinking, followed by swollen or bleeding gums when your dog chews.
The progression happens faster than most owners expect. What starts as mild tartar buildup can quickly advance to painful periodontal disease, making eating difficult and potentially leading to tooth loss. Some dogs begin showing reluctance to eat hard kibble or chew toys they previously enjoyed.
Daily brushing with dog-specific toothpaste becomes essential rather than optional for these dogs. Dental chews like Greenies or Virbac C.E.T. chews can supplement your brushing routine, though they shouldn't replace it entirely. Professional dental cleanings under anaesthesia, typically needed annually, allow your veterinarian to address tartar below the gum line and assess for any teeth requiring extraction.
The investment in dental care pays dividends in your dog's comfort and overall health. Professional cleanings typically cost between $300 and $700, while daily care products like toothbrushes and toothpaste range from $10 to $25, with dental chews adding about $15 to $40 monthly.
Progressive retinal atrophy threatens vision
Progressive retinal atrophy represents one of the most concerning genetic conditions affecting American Eskimos. This degenerative eye disease causes gradual vision loss that eventually leads to complete blindness, and currently no effective cure exists.
The early signs often go unnoticed during daylight hours. You might first observe your dog showing hesitance in dimly lit areas or bumping into furniture during evening walks. Some dogs become reluctant to navigate unfamiliar environments, particularly when lighting is poor. As the condition progresses, these difficulties extend to normal lighting conditions.
Genetic testing before breeding offers the most effective prevention strategy. Reputable breeders screen their breeding dogs for PRA to reduce the likelihood of passing the condition to offspring. If you're considering adding an American Eskimo to your family, asking about PRA testing in the parents provides valuable information about your puppy's risk.
For dogs already affected, routine veterinary ophthalmologic exams help monitor progression and ensure no secondary complications develop. While you can't restore lost vision, you can maintain your dog's quality of life through environmental management and safety measures.
Joint problems affect mobility and comfort
Patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of its normal groove, appears frequently enough in the breed that owners should know what to watch for. You'll often notice a distinctive skipping or bunny-hopping gait, particularly when your dog first starts moving after resting. Some dogs show intermittent limping, and you might hear popping sounds from the knee joint during movement.
The severity varies considerably between dogs. Mild cases may resolve on their own or respond well to joint supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin, along with anti-inflammatory medications when needed. Products like Dasuquin or Cosequin typically cost around $20 to $50 monthly and can provide significant relief for dogs with mild joint issues.
Hip dysplasia occurs less commonly in smaller breeds but still poses a risk worth monitoring. Dogs affected by hip problems often show difficulty rising from lying positions, reluctance to run or jump, and signs of hip pain during movement. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on affected joints significantly.
Severe cases of either condition may require surgical correction, with costs ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 or more. Early diagnosis through regular veterinary examinations allows for conservative management that may prevent the need for surgical intervention.
Spinal conditions require careful monitoring
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) and the genetic predisposition to early spinal disc degeneration present serious concerns for some American Eskimos. These dogs may carry genes that make them susceptible to premature breakdown of the discs that cushion vertebrae in the spine.
Back pain often appears as the first symptom, though it can be subtle. Your dog might show reluctance to jump, difficulty navigating stairs, or general stiffness when moving. More severe cases progress to weakness or even paralysis in the hind limbs, requiring immediate veterinary attention.
Genetic testing can identify dogs at risk for IVDD, allowing owners to take preventive measures. Avoiding activities that stress the spine, maintaining optimal weight, and providing supportive bedding can help reduce the likelihood of disc problems developing.
Treatment approaches range from rest and medication for mild cases to surgical intervention for severe disc ruptures. The key lies in recognising early symptoms and seeking veterinary evaluation promptly.
Neurological and bleeding disorders need awareness
Degenerative myelopathy typically affects senior dogs, causing progressive weakness and loss of coordination in the hind limbs. The condition starts subtly, with slight wobbliness that gradually worsens over time. Eventually, affected dogs may develop paralysis of their rear legs.
While no cure exists for degenerative myelopathy, genetic testing can identify dogs carrying the genes associated with the condition. Physical therapy and supportive care can help maintain quality of life for affected dogs, though the progression is generally inevitable.
Thrombopathia, an inherited bleeding disorder, causes problems with platelet function. Dogs with this condition bruise easily, may experience nosebleeds, and show excessive bleeding from the gums. The condition appears particularly in dogs with Eskimo Spitz lineage, making genetic screening valuable for breeding decisions.
Management focuses on avoiding trauma and seeking veterinary care when bleeding episodes occur. Knowing your dog carries this condition helps you and your veterinarian prepare for any surgical procedures that might be needed.
Practical prevention and management strategies
Weight management deserves special attention in American Eskimos, as these dogs tend to gain weight easily. Extra pounds exacerbate joint problems, spinal issues, and overall mobility challenges. Providing balanced nutrition and ensuring daily exercise helps maintain optimal body condition.
Their dense double coat requires brushing at least three times weekly to prevent matting and skin problems. Regular grooming also provides opportunities to check for lumps, bumps, or other changes that might indicate health issues.
Choosing a reputable breeder who performs genetic testing for PRA, hip dysplasia, and other hereditary conditions provides the best foundation for a healthy dog. Comprehensive genetic testing panels like Wisdom Panel Premium, costing approximately $150 to $200, can identify predispositions and help you plan preventive care strategies.
Regular veterinary check-ups should include eye examinations, orthopaedic evaluations, and weight assessments. Early detection of problems allows for more effective management and often better outcomes for your dog.
These dogs are naturally vocal and alert, traits that serve them well as companions but can become problematic without proper mental stimulation. Training and engaging activities help manage excessive barking, which sometimes indicates boredom or anxiety rather than a response to external stimuli.
Understanding these breed-specific health concerns shouldn't discourage you from enjoying life with your American Eskimo. Rather, this knowledge empowers you to provide the best possible care, catch problems early, and work effectively with your veterinarian to ensure your dog enjoys the longest, healthiest life possible.
