Tornjak vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison

Tornjak vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed ComparisonAmerican Eskimo Dog is originated from United States but Tornjak is originated from Croatia. American Eskimo Dog may grow 24 cm / 9 inches shorter than Tornjak. American Eskimo Dog may weigh 34 kg / 74 pounds lesser than Tornjak. American Eskimo Dog may live 3 years more than Tornjak. Both American Eskimo Dog and Tornjak has almost same litter size. American Eskimo Dog requires High Maintenance. But Tornjak requires Moderate Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Working dog
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United States
Croatia
Height Male:
23 - 48 cm
9 - 19 inches
58 - 72 cm
22 - 29 inches
Height Female:
23 - 40 cm
9 - 16 inches
58 - 72 cm
22 - 29 inches
Weight Male:
4 - 16 kg
8 - 36 pounds
28 - 50 kg
61 - 111 pounds
Weight Female:
3 - 12 kg
6 - 27 pounds
28 - 50 kg
61 - 111 pounds
Life Span:
13 - 15 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
1 - 5
4 - 7
Size:
Small
Large
Other Names:
, Spitz
Croatian Mountain Dog, Bosnian Shepherd Dog
Colors Available:
White with cream or biscuit markings
White with tan, brown or black markings, grey
Coat:
Heavy, thick, double
Long and thick
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Stubborn
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
High Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

american eskimo dogThe American Eskimo is derived from the Nordic Spitz breed and most closely related to the German Spitz in particular. There were many German Spitzes in the United States at the time of the second World War and anti-German sentiment caused its name to change to the American Eskimo Dog. However, as the breed developed over time in the States, the American Eskimo became its own separate breed. In addition to the German Spitz, the American Eskimo is also related to the white Keeshond, the Samoyed, the white Italian Spitz and the white Pomeranian. The history is beginning to show that the Spitzes that were brought to the US in the early 1900’s was white. This color was not popular in Europe but was quickly the favorite in the United States. They were originally working dogs on farms and ranches. They have excellent herding instincts, make goo watch and guard dogs, and good law enforcement sniff dogs. However, their first introduction to the American public was through the Cooper Brothers’ Railroad Circus and Stout’s Pal Pierre at the Barnum and Baily Circus. Eskimo puppies were sold after the circus show.

It was then that the breed became one of America’s favorite breeds and they quickly became house pets. Following World War II, Japan exported the Japanese Spitz into America and it was crossed with the Eskimo also. The American Eskimo Dog breed was not recognized by AKC until 1985. Still in 1958 there was no official breed club in the States but there were growing numbers of the dogs. It was not until 1970 did the National American Eskimo Dog Association (NAEDA) come into being. They collected the pedigrees of the first 1750 dogs to be AKC registered.

Since the American Eskimo Dog is not recognized internationally, those wishing to participate in international competition such as England’s prestigious Cruft’s Dog Show must register their dogs a German Spitz. Despite this the American Eskimo and German Spitz remain two very different breeds.

tornjakKnown also as the Bosnian and Herzegovinian, the Tornjak dog hails from Croatia and Bosnia and is a large mountain sheepdog.

It is thought that this protector of livestock dog has been bred from the Tibetan Mastiff. He is an ancient breed because there are records of its existence coming as far back as the 11th century.

As a working dog, his role of guarding sheep became less and the dog’s numbers diminished. It was during the 1970s that the breed was revived.

Description

american eskimo dog puppy - descriptionThis small to medium dog is beautiful and resembles a miniature Samoyed. There are three sizes of American Eskimothe standard, miniature, and the toy. The Eskimo’s head is wedge shaped with tall, triangular, erect ears. It has a heavily plumed tail with a sharp curl over the back. The Eskimo can burst into bold action due to their good legs and feet.

The coat is a double one with a harsh outer coat and plush inner one. The coat is always white or white with cream or biscuit markings, and visible skin in gray or pink. The American Eskimo’s ruff or mane is very heavy, and the nose, eyelids, pads and gums are black. They have dark eyes and blue are not allowed.

tornjak puppy - descriptionThis is a large, strong dog, standing at between 58 and 72cm in height and weighing between 28 and 50kg. He has a long, thick coat which has always protected him from the harsh winters of the countries he comes from.

Common colors for the coat are mainly white with tan, brown, grey or black markings.

Temperament:

The Tornjak is a beautiful dog and also calm by nature, well balanced, intelligent and self- confident. His calm nature doesn’t stop him from being a good watchdog though as he is also alert and brave.

He is more than willing to please his owner and is able to be trained and socialized with ease.

He is a social dog and just loves spending time with hs human family. Therefore efforts should be made not to leave him alone for long periods of time. He forms strong bonds with them and is loving and devoted. Because of his size and energy he won’t suit life in the city on a small property but will be better suited to life in the countryside.

Characteristics

american eskimo dog dog - characteristicsThe Eskimo is affectionate, playful and love children of all ages. They are intelligent and want to please you. They can be trained easily and are champions of the obedience trial. They are fun and confident. At the same time, they need a confident pack leader. He is prone to Little Dog Syndrome where the dog thinks they oversee the home and display all sorts of behaviors. Under these circumstances the American Eskimo can become obsessive, aggressive, and engaging in obsessive resource guarding and barking.

These are quiet, brave dogs but they can be good watchdogs too.

Calm and balanced, he is capable of being alert too and makes a good watchdog.

tornjak dog - characteristicsWith their human family, they become attached and loyal, not wanting to be separated from anyone for too long. Give him the care this beautiful dog deserves and he'll make you a splendid pet and companion.

Health Problems

american eskimo dog puppies - health problemsThe American Eskimo Dog is prone to hip dysplasia. Their eyes and tear ducts are potential issues with progressive retinal atrophy. They are allergic to fleas and have a tendency to be overweight.

We deal with PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) in greater detain in a following section but it is not as destructive as it used to be. It is much more treatable now.

There are potentially some dental issues that some American Eskimo Dogs are prone to.

tornjak puppies - health problemsMost dogs face one or two health challenges in their lives, but most Tornjaks are healthy and won’t easily get sick.

They’re large dogs so they typically don’t live as long as small dogs. They can live to be between 10 and 12 years of age.

Patellar Luxation: 

This is a dislocation of the kneecap, caused by an injury or it can be present at birth. It can cause pain and a limp.

Hip Dysplasia:

This is a joint condition that is more often seen in large dogs. The ill-fitting joint rubs and chafes, and osteoarthritis and more pain is the result.

You will have to speak to your vet about relieving the pain for your dog and making him more comfortable. Don’t think hip dysplasia is something only old dogs get – it can develop with young dogs – even puppies. Your veterinarian will examine your pet and suggest different medical and surgical options.

Caring The Pet

Feeding

american eskimo dog dogs - caringYour American Eskimo Dog needs a high quality food so they will not get overweight. Make sure you know how much is appropriate for your particular dog and her specific age. The puppies should be fed twice a day but adults only once.

Health issues

As previously mentioned the American Eskimo Dog is prone to eye issue such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy or (PRA) – this disease is inherited and used to cause blindness as the rods in the retina died. New medical discoveries mean this is no longer a hopeless disease. Their eyes are also susceptible to other issues so make sure you check them and the tear ducts regularly.

Like so many other breeds the American Eskimo is also susceptible to hip dysplasia and a moving patella in the knee. For this reason watch their weight. They can also be very allergic.

Exercise and games

This small dog has more energy than his size can handle. He needs a lot of exercise and a place to run. If he will become hyperactive and destructive. They are prone to disturbing behaviors such as spinning (spinning in circles) when they don’t get enough exercise. The American Eskimo Dog is smart and agile, Play games like catch or agility. They are also great at herding, competitive obedience or detection.

Exercise:

tornjak dogs - caringThe Tornjak needs exercise every day to keep him fit and happy. He will love it when you take down his leash for his daily walk. He is a social dog and will want to be involved with all your activities. He gets on well with other dogs too.

●Grooming:

The Tornjak will require quite a bit of grooming because the hair is fairly long and it sheds. Some dog owners have the hair cut by a professional groomer. Regular brushing certainly helps to reduce lots of dog hair flying around.

The insides of his ears need to be checked for signs of redness as well as the eyes. The eyes should be checked for pus and redness. Occasional dog nail trimming will also be required.

● Vaccines:

Keep his vaccines up to date to avoid deadly canine diseases.

● Diet:

Provide your Tornjak with top quality food. If you feed him with one of the commercially manufactured foods, make sure it is one of the better brands. The inferior brands are filled with bad ingredients that can actually make a dog sick.

Try to include some home-made food which can be added to the dry kibble twice a week as a treat. Avoid human foods such as chocolates, grapes, onions, peanuts and chips as these can give him stomach pain and more vet bills for you.

Stick to wholesome, simple foods such as boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots. Your Tornjak will love it and it will ensure he has bright eyes ad a wagging tail. Never leave him without a constant supply of fresh, cool water.

Comparison with other breeds

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  4. American Eskimo Dog vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. American Eskimo Dog vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. American Eskimo Dog vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. American Eskimo Dog vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. American Eskimo Dog vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. American Eskimo Dog vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. American Eskimo Dog vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. American Eskimo Dog vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. American Eskimo Dog vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
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  14. American Eskimo Dog vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. American Eskimo Dog vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. American Eskimo Dog vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. American Eskimo Dog vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. American Eskimo Dog vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. American Eskimo Dog vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
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  24. American Eskimo Dog vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. American Eskimo Dog vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Tornjak vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Tornjak vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Tornjak vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Tornjak vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Tornjak vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Tornjak vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Tornjak vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Tornjak vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Tornjak vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Tornjak vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Tornjak vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Tornjak vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Tornjak vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Tornjak vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Tornjak vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Tornjak vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Tornjak vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Tornjak vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Tornjak vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Tornjak vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Tornjak vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Tornjak vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Tornjak vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Tornjak vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Tornjak vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison