Eskapoo

Characteristics

Health & Longevity

Average Life Span: 10-12 years
Eskapoos are a cross between an American Eskimo and a Poodle. While the American Eskimo genetics promote good health, the Poodle genes are prone to health issues. This makes for an interesting crossbreed that could go either way on the health scale. Some of the most common health concerns for Eskapoos are also the most common health problems for Poodles.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

PRA is a disease of the retina, resulting in degeneration that leads to gradual vision loss and eventual blindness. Eskapoos can develop this condition from between 3-5 years old, beginning with slight disorientation and inability to see in the dark. Over time, these symptoms progress to failure in daytime vision. This disease affects both eyes at the same time, and the symptoms aren’t painful. Thus far, there isn’t a cure for PRA, but vets believe a low-fat, balanced diet will slow degeneration.

Hip Dysplasia

Sometimes a crippling condition, hip dysplasia occurs when the Eskapoo’s joints fit abnormally into their hip sockets. This results in the rubbing of bones and cartilage, resulting in debilitating pain and arthritis. As your pup ages, their bones and joints naturally shrink, and this innate deterioration can cause complete loss of mobility if the dog has dysplasia. For treatment, dogs are given medication for inflammation and pain. If the condition is severe enough, the vet might call for corrective surgery.

Other health problems that could affect an Eskapoo include corneal ulcers, glaucoma, diabetes, and allergies to pollen, peanut butter, and grass. Cancer, another genetic pass-along from Poodles, is a danger when your Eskapoo reaches 5-6 years of age.

Eskapoos, despite having a few bad genes, can live anywhere from 10-12 years. Regular vet check-ups will ensure your pup remains healthy for the duration, and any signs of trouble can be spotted early on.

Temperament & Train-ability

Friendly, cheery, and loving, Eskapoos are known for their positive, always happy dispositions. These pups love attention and affection, which makes them great companions for families, apartment dwellers, seniors, and children alike. While rambunctious and bouncy during playtime, the Eskapoo will happily sit still to snuggle their owner. A few tail wags and a cheerful yip are sure signs that your pup is content.

Eskapoos are family oriented, so they don’t fare well when left alone for extended periods of time. They can suffer from anxiety that makes separation difficult. This stress can cause hair loss, nervous barking, and destructive chewing. Be sure you have the time to spend with your Eskapoo on a regular basis, before you decide to bring him home.

Training your Eskapoo requires patience at first. Their American Eskimo side is independent, stubborn, and willful, so your Eskapoo may inherit some of those headstrong traits. Be firm and persistent in your commands. Use healthy, meaty treats as rewards for good behavior. You must establish yourself as the dominant Alpha in your pack with strong, clear commands when you voice instructions. Steer away from being too strict or doling out punishments. Instead, guide your Eskapoo with persistence, consistency, encouragement, and love.

As pups, Eskapoos can be rambunctious and boisterous. They love to jump, run, and play, especially with other small to mid-sized dogs and children. Regular exercise is important to keep your Eskapoo from falling victim to boredom. Lack of stimulation leads to destructive behavior, so schedule at least 2 walks a day and a block of playtime to keep your pup busy. Dog parks are great places to take your very active Eskapoo.

Grooming

Eskapoos can have a coat like either of their parent breeds. Poodles have tight, curly coats that are prone to tangles and debris. American Eskimos have long-haired coats that easily mat. Your Eskapoo could have either of these kinds of coats or a variation of both. Brush his coat daily to ensure softer, smoother, tangle-free fur.

Unfortunately, regular dog shampoos and human shampoos can cause allergic reactions in Eskapoos. When you bathe your Eskapoo bi-weekly, use a gentle dog shampoo with a sensitive formula. If his coat is more like a Poodle’s, then the sensitive skin issues will be less since Poodles are hypoallergenic.

To keep your Eskapoo from scratching you, himself, or the floor, trim his nails regularly. Preferably once a week. You could also take him to a vet or a groomer to have his nails filed down. This method eliminates ragged edges. For his ears, use a vet-recommended solution to clean the gunk from the ear rims. Never, ever stick a swab into the ear canal, as you could risk bacteria build-up that leads to an ear infection.

Diet

Eskapoos have a high risk of obesity because of their knack for overeating. To keep your pup at a healthy weight, feed him about one cup of dry kibble two times per day. Opt for high-quality dog food with plenty of fiber and protein. Only use treats as rewards and monitor the ingredients. His dog food and treats should begin with a meaty ingredient on the label, then proceed to whole grains. Preservatives and fillers are bad for your pup’s health, so invest in better food for a healthier dog.
 

Find An Eskapoo Breeder

Eskapoo Puppies For Sale

Adopt An Eskapoo

Cost

Eskapoo puppies are in high demand, so breeders charge upwards of $2,000 per pup. If you are going the breeder route, ask for blood tests, a jump start on training, and health clearance before bringing your pup home. Because of their popularity, it is rare to find Eskapoos in shelters. If you do get lucky, the adoption fees are anywhere from $200 to $400, depending on how long the pup has been there and how young it is.

Paws ‘N’ Pups Ranking

Paws ‘N’ Pups ranks every breed out of 4 with 1 being easiest to integrate into your life and 4 being the toughest – The lower the ranking the better.

Ranking takes into account a few basic factors including cost, skill level needed, high vs low maintenance and how critical regular training is to success. Eskapoos rank a 2 for the ease of which you can integrate them into your life. Their stubbornness and anxious manners could get tiresome at times, but their friendliness, loving demeanor, and cheery dispositions outweigh any negatives.

 

American Eskimo Dog

Poodle

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