The American Eskimo Dog combines striking good looks with a quick and clever mind in a total brains-and-beauty package. Neither shy nor aggressive, Eskies are always alert and friendly, though a bit conservative when making new friends. The American Eskimo Dog comes in three sizes standard, miniature, and toy standing as tall as 19 inches at the shoulder or as short as 9 inches. Distinctive traits include a dense, sparkling white coat with a lion-like ruff around the chest and shoulders; a smiling face, with black nose, lips, and eye-rims that convey a keen, intelligent expression; and a plumed tail carried over the back. Some Eskies have markings with the delicious color name 'biscuit cream.' They move with a bold and agile gait. Eskies are social animals and can develop problem behaviors when neglected or undertrained they insist on being part of family life. Among the most trainable of breeds, the clever, kid-friendly Eskie practically invented the phrase 'eager to please.'