All about Eskland dog breed

All You Need to Know About the "Eskland" Breed (parent breeds: "American Eskimo Dog" × "Shetland Sheepdog")

The average healthy Eskland weight is 20-30 pounds. Adult males typically weigh between 22-30 pounds, while females are usually 20-28 pounds. This is the typical size for Eskland, with variations depending on individual lineage and build.

Eskland Height: How Tall Is an Eskland?

Eskland colors are a beautiful blend reflecting their American Eskimo Dog and Shetland Sheepdog heritage. While not an AKC-recognized purebred, reputable breeders strive for certain acceptable coat types.

The Eskland personality is a delightful blend of its parent breeds, making for a wonderfully companionable and intelligent dog. Owners can expect a highly friendly and outgoing temperament. Esklands are known for their strong loyalty to their families, often forming deep bonds with their human companions. This breed is generally very sociable, enjoying interaction with people and often getting along well with other dogs. Their moderate energy levels, combined with their desire to please, make them quite adaptable to apartment living, provided they receive daily walks and mental stimulation. They are typically good-natured and patient, making them excellent companions for children, especially with proper socialization and supervision. Similarly, their amiable disposition often extends to other pets, allowing them to integrate smoothly into multi-pet households. Early socialization and positive reinforcement training are key to nurturing their best traits.

The Eskland temperament is a delightful blend, creating an intelligent, affectionate, and active companion dog behavior. They are typically friendly and sociable with their families, often forming strong, loyal bonds. While generally outgoing, some may inherit a bit of the Shetland Sheepdog's initial reserve around strangers, but they usually warm up quickly.Esklands are highly adaptable and can be well-suited for apartment living provided they receive adequate daily exercise and mental stimulation. They thrive on interaction and being part of family activities.With children, Esklands are generally good-natured and patient, especially when properly socialized from a young age. Supervision is always recommended with very young children. Their intelligent and playful nature makes them engaging companions for older, respectful children.Regarding other pets, Esklands typically get along well, particularly if introduced early. Their herding instincts might occasionally surface with smaller, fast-moving animals, but this is usually manageable with training.While intelligent and eager to please, some Esklands can display a moderate tendency toward stubbornness, requiring consistent and positive reinforcement training. They are also known to be sensitive to harsh corrections, responding best to gentle guidance and praise. This personality trait makes them excellent candidates for positive obedience training and various dog sports. Expect an alert and vocal nature, as they often enjoy "telling" you about their surroundings.

Eskland Care: Daily Maintenance and Health Tips

Eskland Activity Level: How active are Eskland? The Eskland, a delightful blend of the American Eskimo Dog and Shetland Sheepdog, possesses a moderate to high energy level. They are not typically couch potatoes but also not hyperactive. Expect an Eskland to enjoy a balanced approach to activity, blending short bursts of playful energy with extended periods of rest and relaxation.

I would rate the "Size" trait of the Eskland breed a 4 out of 10.Esklands are generally small to medium-sized dogs, inheriting a compact yet sturdy build from both parent breeds. They typically stand between 13 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 18 to 30 pounds. Their body structure is well-proportioned, often with the agility and lean muscularity of a Shetland Sheepdog combined with the slightly more substantial bone structure of an American Eskimo Dog. While not as tiny as a Toy Poodle or Chihuahua, they are significantly smaller than breeds like Golden Retrievers or German Shepherds. This moderate size makes them very well-suited for apartment living, as they don't require vast amounts of space. Their portable nature also makes them excellent travel companions, fitting comfortably in most vehicles and pet carriers. They are a good choice for households with space constraints, offering a substantial and interactive companion without being physically imposing.

I would rate the Eskland's grooming requirements at a 7 out of 10.This breed, inheriting the dense double coats of both the American Eskimo Dog and the Shetland Sheepdog, will be a moderate to high-maintenance groom. Both parent breeds are known for significant shedding, particularly during seasonal changes, meaning the Eskland will likely be a consistent shedder. Regular brushing, at least 3-4 times a week, will be essential to manage the undercoat and prevent mats, especially in areas like behind the ears, armpits, and along the hindquarters where the fur tends to be longer and finer. While neither parent breed typically has extensive skin folds requiring specialized care, their thick coats can trap moisture, making thorough drying after baths crucial to prevent hot spots or skin irritations. Ear cleaning will be a standard requirement, as with most dogs, to prevent wax buildup and infections, but not necessarily more frequent than average. Nail trimming will also be a regular necessity. Bathing will be needed periodically, perhaps every 4-6 weeks, or as needed, to keep the coat clean and healthy. Compared to short-haired breeds, the Eskland requires more frequent and dedicated attention to their coat to keep it in good condition and manage shedding effectively. While not quite in the realm of breeds needing daily professional grooming, it’s far from a wash-and-go dog, demanding a consistent grooming routine from its owner.

I'd rate the Eskland's exercise requirements at a 7 out of 10.This hybrid inherits an active spirit from both parent breeds. The American Eskimo Dog, while not a high-octane working dog, is still a spry and intelligent companion that enjoys regular activity and mental challenges. The Shetland Sheepdog, on the other hand, is a true herding breed, known for its boundless energy, agility, and a strong drive to work and move. As such, an Eskland will likely be a moderately to highly energetic dog that thrives on consistent, structured exercise. They're not going to be content with just a quick stroll around the block. They'll need daily walks of at least 45-60 minutes, potentially more, coupled with dedicated playtime that involves running, fetching, or even engaging in dog sports like agility or obedience. Their intelligence from both sides means they also require mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors, which can often be satisfied through training sessions, puzzle toys, and new experiences during walks. While not possessing the extreme endurance of some working breeds, they can certainly tolerate sustained movement and would likely enjoy longer hikes. There are no brachycephalic limitations to consider, allowing them to breathe freely during exercise. Neglecting their exercise needs would likely result in an unhappy, potentially anxious, and destructive dog, as they are truly a breed that requires regular physical and mental engagement to stay healthy and well-adjusted.

I would rate the Eskland's watchdog ability as an 8 out of 10.The Eskland, combining the "American Eskimo Dog" and "Shetland Sheepdog," is highly likely to inherit a strong propensity for watchfulness and vocalization. Both parent breeds are known for their alertness and readiness to bark at anything they perceive as unusual. The Eskie's inherent wariness of strangers and tendency to "speak" their mind, coupled with the Sheltie's keen sense of hearing and territorial nature, would make for an exceptionally vigilant canine. They would be quick to respond to unfamiliar sounds or people with a series of barks, effectively serving as an early warning system. While they might not be the most physically imposing deterrent, their persistent and often loud barking would certainly alert household members to any potential intrusion and likely make an unwelcome visitor think twice. They are far more than passive companions; they are capable of providing very meaningful early warnings in a home environment, though their deterrence is more vocal than physical.

I would rate the "Good with Other Dogs" trait of the "Eskland" at a 7 out of 10.Both American Eskimo Dogs and Shetland Sheepdogs are generally known for their intelligence and desire to please, which contributes to their trainability and adaptability. American Eskimos, while loyal to their families, can sometimes be a bit reserved or wary of strangers, including unfamiliar dogs, initially. However, once comfortable, they are typically playful and can form strong bonds. Shetland Sheepdogs are often described as sensitive and gentle, and they generally get along well with other dogs, especially with proper socialization. They are herding dogs by nature, which means they can be watchful and occasionally try to "herd" other animals, but this rarely translates to aggression towards other dogs.Therefore, an Eskland, with proper early socialization, is likely to be quite sociable and friendly with other dogs. They will likely enjoy canine companionship and can thrive in multi-dog households. Their intelligence means they are responsive to training and can learn appropriate social behaviors. While they might not be the most boisterous or immediately gregarious with every single new dog they meet (some initial caution from the Eskie side might be present), they are far from aggressive and are generally adaptable. Careful introductions are always a good practice with any dog, but an Eskland is more likely to require basic, positive introductions rather than extensive, specialized training to coexist peacefully. They are likely to be compatible with dogs of various sizes and energy levels, though their moderate energy and intelligence might make them particularly good companions for similarly minded dogs.

Rating: 7The "Energetic" trait of the "Eskland" breed is a 7. This breed inherits a significant drive for activity from both its parent breeds. The American Eskimo Dog, while a companion breed, is historically a performer and requires regular exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. The Shetland Sheepdog, a herding breed, is renowned for its intelligence, agility, and need for a job, which translates to a considerable demand for physical and mental stimulation. Therefore, an Eskland is naturally active, thriving on daily walks, playtime, and engaging activities. They possess good endurance and enjoy participating in various outdoor pursuits like hiking, fetch, and even dog sports like agility or obedience. They are highly playful and will readily engage their owners in games.However, the "Eskland" is not an "extremely high energy" breed like some working or sporting dogs, hence not a 9 or 10. While they need regular exercise, they also appreciate downtime and cuddling with their families. They are not prone to being hyperactive if their needs are met. The brachycephalic anatomy of the Eskland, inherited from the American Eskimo Dog (though typically not as pronounced as in true brachycephalic breeds like Pugs or Bulldogs), can affect stamina and exercise tolerance. While most American Eskimo Dogs have a moderate muzzle, a shorter snout *could* potentially lead to breathing difficulties during intense exercise, especially in hot weather. This means that while they are enthusiastic participants, owners should be mindful of overheating and avoid over-exertion during strenuous activities. Their endurance is generally good, but caution is necessary with very high-intensity or prolonged exertion, particularly in warmer climates.

The Eskland rates a 7 on the training requirements scale.While both parent breeds are intelligent, they also bring a need for consistent and engaging training. The American Eskimo Dog is generally eager to please and intelligent, but can have a mischievous streak and be prone to vocalization if not properly managed. The Shetland Sheepdog is highly intelligent, sensitive, and eager to learn, but can also be quite sensitive to harsh correction and may become withdrawn or anxious without positive reinforcement. This blend suggests an Eskland will be a bright dog, quick to pick up on commands, but also one that thrives on mental stimulation and can become bored or develop undesirable habits if not given a consistent and structured training routine. They will likely be responsive to commands, but their attention span might vary, especially as puppies, requiring varied exercises to keep them engaged. Stubbornness might manifest if they find something more interesting or if their needs for activity aren't met. Consistency is paramount, and positive reinforcement will be far more effective than punitive methods, as they could easily become shut down or resistant. This breed is not ideal for an absolute beginner who isn't prepared to invest time and effort into consistent, positive training and mental enrichment. While a patient beginner *could* manage with professional guidance, they will likely benefit most from an owner with some prior dog training experience who understands the importance of early socialization, continuous learning, and structured routines to channel their intelligence and energy effectively.

Rating: 8The Eskland is likely to be a highly playful breed, inheriting the lively and enthusiastic nature of both its parent breeds. American Eskimo Dogs are known for their intelligence, eagerness to please, and love for games, often enjoying the spotlight. Shetland Sheepdogs, while sometimes a bit more reserved with strangers, are incredibly devoted and playful with their families, thriving on mental stimulation and interactive activities. This crossbreed will likely be very responsive to toys and playtime, eager to engage in games like fetch or hide-and-seek, and will appreciate various forms of interaction. They are not naturally laid-back and will likely display a good deal of enthusiasm in daily life, seeking out attention and opportunities for fun. While not as relentlessly energetic as some working breeds, their inherent intelligence and desire for companionship will manifest as a consistently playful and interactive demeanor.

I'd rate the "Affectionate" trait of the Eskland an 8 out of 10.Both parent breeds, the American Eskimo Dog and the Shetland Sheepdog, are known for their strong bonds with their families and desire for companionship. The Eskland is likely to inherit this delightful characteristic, making them highly people-oriented. They will almost certainly thrive on human interaction, displaying a strong desire to be involved in family activities. Expect an Eskland to be a loyal companion, sensitive to your moods and eager to offer comfort or solicit attention. While they might not be constantly demanding physical closeness to the extent of a purely "velcro" dog, they will certainly enjoy cuddling, especially with their favorite people, and will likely follow family members from room to room, preferring to be in the same space. Their intelligence and eagerness to please, inherited from both sides, also contribute to their affectionate nature, as they often seek to understand and respond to their owner's emotions. They are not independent compared to most companion dogs, instead flourishing in an environment where they receive consistent attention and love.

I would rate the "Good with Other Pets" trait of the "Eskland" at a 7 out of 10.The Eskland inherits traits from both the American Eskimo Dog and the Shetland Sheepdog, which generally contribute to a positive outlook on other pets, but with some caveats. Both parent breeds are known for their intelligence and trainability, which is a major advantage in a multi-pet household. American Eskimo Dogs are often described as friendly and good with other dogs, especially with proper socialization. Shetland Sheepdogs, while sometimes a bit reserved with strangers, are typically very devoted to their family and generally get along well with other animals, including cats, particularly if raised with them.However, the "herding instinct" from the Shetland Sheepdog side means they might try to "herd" smaller pets or even children, which while not aggressive, can be annoying or perceived as such by other animals. This could manifest as nudging, circling, or persistent nipping at heels, requiring consistent training to manage. While the prey drive is generally not high in either parent breed, it's still present in varying degrees and could be a factor, especially with very small, fast-moving prey animals (like rodents or birds) if not properly introduced and supervised. Resource guarding, while not inherent to the breeds, can develop in any dog without proper training and management, especially in multi-pet homes where competition for toys or food might arise.Overall, an Eskland is likely to be naturally sociable and adaptable, especially if socialized from a young age. They will likely thrive in a multi-pet household with proper introductions, consistent training, and supervision to manage any potential herding tendencies or resource guarding issues. They are not typically a breed that is highly incompatible, but they aren't inherently perfect either, requiring owners to be proactive in shaping their interactions with other animals.

Rating the "Good with Children" trait of the Eskland, with American Eskimo Dog and Shetland Sheepdog as parent breeds, I would give it an 8 out of 10.The Eskland inherits a wonderful blend of traits from its parents that generally make it a very suitable companion for families with children. Both American Eskimo Dogs and Shetland Sheepdogs are known for their intelligence, eagerness to please, and affectionate nature. This typically translates into an Eskland that is patient and gentle with children, often enjoying their company and participating in playtime. Their moderate energy levels mean they are usually up for a game of fetch but also happy to curl up for cuddles. They tend to be quite tolerant of noise, although individual personalities will vary, and can generally handle the sometimes clumsy handling of younger children with a good-natured patience. Their intelligence means they are responsive to training, which is crucial for teaching both the dog and the children how to interact respectfully. While naturally gentle and often affectionate, like any breed, early socialization and consistent training are key to ensuring they thrive in a family setting and understand boundaries. Supervision is always recommended with any dog and young children, but the Eskland’s inherent temperament leans towards a highly compatible and loving family member.

I would rate the "Good with Strangers" trait of the "Eskland" at a 7. The Eskland inherits a fascinating blend of traits from its parent breeds. The American Eskimo Dog, while generally friendly with its family, can often be a bit reserved or even wary of strangers, often expressing this through alert barking. They are keen observers and can take time to warm up. Conversely, the Shetland Sheepdog, while also an excellent watch dog prone to barking, tends to be more naturally reserved than overtly aggressive, often preferring to observe from a distance rather than immediately engage. When properly socialized, Shelties can be polite and accepting of new people, though they typically aren't boisterously outgoing.For the Eskland, this translates to a dog that, with good socialization from a young age, is generally well-behaved and accepting of unfamiliar adults. They are unlikely to be aggressive, but their herding and guardian instincts from both sides might make them initially cautious and prone to a moderate amount of alert barking when someone new approaches their home or family. They won't typically be the type to immediately demand attention from every passerby, and their friendliness might be a more subtle, polite acceptance rather than an exuberant greeting. With consistent positive exposure to various people and environments, they can adapt well to public settings and guest-filled homes, becoming comfortable and even enjoying polite interaction. However, without this dedicated socialization, they could lean more towards the reserved and potentially anxious side of their Eskie heritage. They are not naturally outgoing to the extent of, say, a Golden Retriever, and will benefit significantly from intentional training to be truly comfortable and welcoming with strangers.

I'd rate the "Eskland" breed's winter tolerance at an 8 out of 10.Both parent breeds, the American Eskimo Dog and the Shetland Sheepdog, possess double coats that offer excellent insulation against cold. The American Eskimo Dog, in particular, is known for its dense, stand-offish fur, a trait likely passed down. While the Shetland Sheepdog is smaller, its full double coat still provides significant warmth. This combination would result in an Eskland with a thick, insulating double coat, highly effective at trapping body heat. Neither parent breed is brachycephalic, so the Eskland would not have the respiratory difficulties in cold, dry air associated with those breeds. Their medium size allows for good heat retention without being overly large and exposed.While very resilient, an "8" rather than a "10" acknowledges that even highly cold-tolerant breeds can be susceptible to extreme conditions or prolonged exposure without activity. In incredibly harsh blizzards or sub-zero temperatures with strong winds, even an Eskland would benefit from shorter outdoor sessions and opportunities to warm up indoors. Compared to many common companion dogs, the Eskland would require less special care in winter, thriving in conditions that would send shorter-coated or single-coated breeds shivering indoors. However, like any dog, they would still need access to shelter, fresh water (not frozen), and protection from frostbite on paws if walking on ice or salt for extended periods.

The "Eskland" breed, a mix of the "American Eskimo Dog" and "Shetland Sheepdog," would likely rate around a 3 for "Summer" tolerance. Both parent breeds are double-coated dogs bred for colder climates, not heat. While neither is brachycephalic, making breathing slightly less strenuous than a pug, their dense undercoats and longer guard hairs are designed to insulate against cold, trapping heat in warm weather. This significantly hinders their ability to regulate body temperature effectively. They are at a high risk of heatstroke, even during moderate temperatures, and prolonged exposure to heat can be dangerous. Outdoor activity levels should be severely restricted during warm or hot weather, limited to very early morning or late evening short walks, and preferably kept indoors in air-conditioned environments during the day. They absolutely require special care in summer months, more so than many other companion dogs. Owners will need to be vigilant about providing ample shade, fresh water, and ideally, air conditioning, and should avoid any strenuous activity when temperatures rise.

I'd rate the "Healthiness" trait of the Eskland breed a 7 out of 10.The Eskland benefits from hybrid vigor, often inheriting a broader genetic pool than its purebred parents, which can reduce the incidence of some breed-specific issues. Both the American Eskimo Dog and the Shetland Sheepdog are generally robust breeds with decent lifespans, contributing to the Eskland's overall health potential. However, they do share some predispositions. For instance, patellar luxation, hip and elbow dysplasia, and certain eye conditions (like progressive retinal atrophy) are concerns in both parent breeds and can therefore manifest in the Eskland. Both can also be prone to dental issues if not properly cared for. The double coat of both parents means the Eskland will also require regular grooming to prevent skin issues and matting, making it somewhat high-maintenance in terms of coat care. While not typically prone to breathing difficulties, their medium size and active nature generally mean they avoid the extreme structural issues seen in brachycephalic or giant breeds. With responsible breeding practices, including genetic screening of parent dogs, and consistent preventive care like regular vet check-ups, appropriate diet, and exercise, the Eskland is generally a robust companion dog, though not entirely free from potential health concerns.

I would rate the "Protective" trait of the "Eskland" as a 7 out of 10.The Eskland, a mix of the American Eskimo Dog and the Shetland Sheepdog, inherits a strong inclination towards watchfulness and loyalty. Both parent breeds are known for their alertness and vocal nature, which translates to an Eskland that is highly aware of its surroundings. They will undoubtedly bark to signal the presence of strangers or unusual activity, making them excellent watchdogs. Their loyalty to their owners is unwavering, and they will form strong bonds, leading to a natural instinct to protect their human family. However, while they are quick to alert and may exhibit a brave front, they are generally not an aggressive breed. Their "protection" is more in the form of deterrence through barking and a noticeable presence, rather than physical confrontation. They are unlikely to be a formidable guard dog capable of fending off a serious intruder. Therefore, the Eskland is more of a highly alert and devoted companion dog that offers meaningful protection in a household setting primarily through its vigilant watchdog capabilities and its strong territorial barks, rather than through physical defense.

I would rate the "Life Span" trait of the "Eskland" breed at a 9.This rating indicates a breed with a significantly above-average to exceptional longevity. The parent breeds, the American Eskimo Dog and the Shetland Sheepdog, are both known for their impressive lifespans, typically ranging from 12 to 15 years, and often even longer. Both breeds are generally robust and resilient, with a lower incidence of severe hereditary conditions that dramatically shorten life compared to some other breeds. While both can experience common issues like hip dysplasia or eye conditions, these are often manageable and not typically life-limiting in a profound way. The combined genetics suggest a strong predisposition for a long and healthy life for the Eskland. Responsible breeding practices, which screen for known hereditary issues in both parent breeds, and good owner care (nutrition, exercise, regular veterinary check-ups) would further enhance this inherent longevity, making the Eskland a truly long-lived companion dog.