Eskifon
Hybrid Breed Description
The Eskifon is a cross between the American Eskimo and the Brussels Griffon. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing an Eskifon. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
American Eskimo
The American Eskimo Dog is a beautiful small to medium-sized Nordic breed that comes in three distinct size varieties recognized by kennel clubs. Toy Eskimos stand between nine and twelve inches tall and weigh five to ten pounds, while miniature varieties measure twelve to fifteen inches in height and weigh ten to twenty pounds. The standard size ranges from fifteen to nineteen inches tall with a weight of eighteen to thirty-five pounds. This sizing flexibility makes the breed adaptable to various living situations while maintaining their characteristic sturdy, well-balanced proportions. The Eskie's most striking feature is their magnificent pure white double coat, though white with biscuit cream markings is also accepted within breed standards. The coat consists of a dense, plush undercoat protected by a longer, harsher outer coat that stands away from the body without curling or waving. A pronounced lion-like ruff encircles the neck and chest area, particularly prominent in male dogs, while the legs feature distinctive feathering. The breed's signature otter-like tail curves gracefully over the back, covered thickly with the same dense white fur. Other distinctive physical characteristics include a wedge-shaped head with a domed forehead, erect triangular ears set high on the skull, and large dark eyes rimmed in black that convey an intelligent, alert expression. The muzzle and skull are approximately equal in length with a moderate stop. Black is the preferred color for the nose, eye rims, lips, and paw pads, creating a striking contrast against the white coat. The breed moves with a bold, energetic gait that reflects their confident and agile nature, presenting an overall picture of a compact, well-muscled dog that is slightly longer than tall.
Key Characteristics
American Eskimo Dogs possess vibrant, engaging personalities characterized by intelligence, playfulness, and a strong desire to bond closely with their human families. Often described as eager to please, Eskies are among the most trainable breeds and excel at learning both basic commands and complex tricks quickly. Their circus performing heritage is evident in their natural showmanship and ability to pick up behaviors simply by watching other dogs. However, this intelligence comes with an independent streak, and without proper training and socialization from puppyhood, they can become willful and develop unwanted behaviors. Positive reinforcement training methods work best with this sensitive breed. Eskies are naturally social dogs that thrive on human companionship and interaction, earning them the nickname of being devoted family members. They form intense bonds with their owners and prefer to be included in all household activities rather than being left alone for extended periods. When isolated or neglected, they may develop separation anxiety and resort to destructive behaviors or excessive barking. The breed is generally friendly and good with children when properly socialized, making them excellent family companions for households that can provide adequate attention and engagement. While affectionate with their families, American Eskimos can be reserved or wary around strangers initially, though they typically warm up once properly introduced. This natural suspicion makes them excellent watchdogs who will alert their families to visitors or unusual activity with their vocal nature. However, they are not aggressive dogs. Their high energy levels and curious minds require substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom-related issues such as spinning, excessive barking, or destructive chewing. Activities like obedience training, agility courses, and interactive play sessions help channel their boundless enthusiasm positively while strengthening the human-dog bond.
American Eskimo Dogs are generally healthy with a lifespan of twelve to fifteen years, though they are predisposed to certain breed-specific health conditions that owners should monitor. Progressive Retinal Atrophy represents one of the more serious inherited conditions affecting Eskies, causing gradual deterioration of the retina that can lead to blindness. Symptoms typically begin appearing between three and five years of age with night blindness or dilated pupils. While not painful and incurable, genetic testing is available to identify carriers. Hip dysplasia, though less common in smaller breeds, can still affect American Eskimos, causing improper hip joint formation that leads to arthritis and mobility issues over time. Patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of its normal position, occurs with some frequency in the breed and can cause intermittent lameness or difficulty moving. Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, affecting the hip joint's blood supply in young dogs, may also develop. Eye problems beyond PRA include juvenile cataracts, which can appear before breeding age, and general eye injuries due to their prominent eye structure. The breed also shows susceptibility to allergies, tear staining, and dental problems that require regular preventive care including daily teeth brushing. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for American Eskimos, as obesity can exacerbate joint problems and reduce overall lifespan. The breed has a tendency to become overweight easily if not properly exercised or if overfed. Regular veterinary checkups, appropriate nutrition, consistent exercise, and early intervention when health issues arise can help Eskies live long, healthy lives. Responsible breeders conduct health screenings including hip evaluations, eye examinations, and PRA genetic testing to reduce the incidence of hereditary conditions. Prospective owners should request health clearances and ask about the health history of both parents before acquiring an American Eskimo puppy.
Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon is a small, sturdy toy breed typically standing nine to eleven inches tall at maturity and weighing between six and twelve pounds, with males and females showing little size difference. Despite their diminutive stature, Griffs possess a surprisingly robust, compact build with good bone structure that gives them an athletic quality well-suited to their original purpose as stable ratters. The breed presents a well-balanced, square appearance where body length equals height, creating proportionate lines. Their small size makes them adaptable to various living situations including apartments, though their personality far exceeds their physical dimensions. The Brussels Griffon's most distinguishing feature is their almost human-like facial expression, characterized by a large, round, domed skull with a very short, pushed-in nose and prominent black features. Their large, dark, well-set eyes rimmed in black project an alert, intelligent, and often mischievous expression enhanced by long black eyelashes. The breed comes in two distinct coat varieties: rough-coated Griffons have a dense, wiry coat with characteristic longer facial hair forming the signature beard and mustache that earned them the nickname of bearded dog, while smooth-coated varieties possess straight, short, tight, glossy hair with no wiry texture. Both types display small, high-set ears that may be cropped or left natural. Brussels Griffons are recognized in four color varieties: red, belge which is a mix of black and reddish brown with a black mask and whiskers, black and tan with reddish brown markings on specific areas, and solid black. White spotting is considered a major fault in breed standards. Their purposeful, confident trot reflects a self-important attitude despite their size. The rough coat requires regular grooming including hand-stripping twice yearly where dead hairs are manually plucked to promote new growth, while smooth coats need only weekly brushing. Their brachycephalic facial structure with the short muzzle and prominent eyes creates their distinctive appearance but also makes them sensitive to temperature extremes and prone to breathing difficulties.
Key Characteristics
Brussels Griffons possess outsized personalities packed into small bodies, exhibiting a complex temperament that combines affection, intelligence, and a somewhat bossy, self-important attitude. Often described as having big dog attitudes, Griffs are highly intelligent and quick learners who bond intensely with their owners, earning the nickname Velcro dogs for their tendency to stay as close as possible to their favorite people at all times. They thrive on constant companionship and human interaction, forming particularly strong attachments to one or two family members whom they follow devotedly throughout the home. This intense bonding means they do not tolerate being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation anxiety, depression, or destructive behaviors when isolated. While deeply affectionate and loving with their families, Brussels Griffons typically display a more reserved or cautious nature around strangers and in unfamiliar situations, requiring time to warm up before their playful, charming personalities emerge. Early and extensive socialization helps build confidence and prevents excessive shyness or fearfulness. Despite their sweet nature, Griffs possess a sensitive, somewhat stubborn streak that requires patient, positive training methods rather than harsh corrections. Their intelligence makes them capable learners, but they can be independent thinkers who choose when to cooperate, especially if they find training uninteresting. Brussels Griffons make alert watchdogs who will bark to announce visitors, though they are not excessively vocal compared to some toy breeds and are not aggressive. They generally do well with older, respectful children but may not tolerate rough handling or the unpredictable behavior of very young children, sometimes responding with snapping if they feel threatened or overwhelmed. Griffs can coexist peacefully with other pets when properly socialized from puppyhood, though their ratting heritage means they may chase smaller animals. The breed requires moderate daily exercise of about thirty minutes, enjoying walks and interactive play, but is equally content cuddling on the couch with their beloved humans, making them adaptable companions for various lifestyles provided their need for constant companionship is met.
Brussels Griffons are generally healthy dogs with an average lifespan of twelve to fifteen years, though they are predisposed to certain breed-specific health conditions requiring vigilant monitoring. Their brachycephalic facial structure with shortened airways creates the most significant health concern, causing breathing difficulties, snoring, and increased sensitivity to heat and humidity that can lead to heatstroke. These respiratory issues may worsen during exercise or in warm weather, requiring owners to provide climate-controlled environments and avoid overheating. This flat-faced structure also contributes to dental crowding and increased risk of periodontal disease, necessitating diligent dental care including regular brushing and professional cleanings. Eye problems occur frequently in Brussels Griffons due to their large, prominent eyes that are vulnerable to injury and various conditions. Progressive Retinal Atrophy, an inherited disease causing gradual vision loss and eventual blindness, typically manifests between three and five years of age, with genetic testing available for breeding stock. Cataracts may develop with age and can be surgically corrected. Corneal ulcers and other eye injuries occur more easily given their protruding eye structure. Cherry eye and other eyelid problems may also affect the breed. Orthopedic issues include patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of place causing pain and lameness, particularly common in small breeds and often manageable with medication though sometimes requiring surgery. Hip dysplasia, while less common than in large breeds, still occurs and should be screened. Syringomyelia and Chiari-like malformation represent serious neurological conditions where fluid-filled cavities develop in the spinal cord due to skull malformation, causing severe pain and potential paralysis. MRI screening before breeding helps identify affected dogs. Additional concerns include allergies causing skin irritation, tendency toward obesity if overfed, and sensitivity to anesthesia due to their size. Regular veterinary care, weight management, dental hygiene, and awareness of their respiratory limitations help Brussels Griffons live full, healthy lives.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Eskifon may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the American Eskimo and Brussels Griffon to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.