Health Considerations What health problems does this breed have? What is the average cost for healthcare of an American Eskimo? What does it cost to have a dog spayed or neutered? Question: What health problems does this breed have? Answer: The American Eskimo is generally considered one of the healthier breeds around. There are cases of hip dysphasia noted in this breed and cases of Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). While neither of these are what we consider a major problem in the breed, it should be noted. Breeders should take steps to ensure breeding stock has been tested for either. All of our dogs are tested for hip dysphasia and Progressive Retinal Atrophy before using them for breeding. Hip x-rays are done after 2 years of age and we have our dogs eyes examined at least every two years. Return to Top Question: What is the average cost for healthcare of an American Eskimo? Answer: Healthcare will vary greatly depending on your area and how much your Vet charges. Consider that your puppy will need three additional shots when it leaves us. We would estimate each visit at $50.00. Our adults cost us approximately $250.00 a year (each dog) for heartworm medication, heartworm antigen test, flea prevention, fecal exams, and shots. So with this in mind, we would estimate your annual health cost to be approximately $300.00 a year for a normal American Eskimo Dog. Naturally any accidents or unforeseen problems could cost you more and you should always be prepared to care for you pet. After all they do rely on you for their well being. Return to Top Question: What does it cost to have a dog spayed or neutered? Answer: Once again this is a question that is going to vary according to your area and what your vet charges. We pay about $150.00 to spay a female and about $100.00 to neuter a male. Some vets require pre-anesthesia testing which will be in addition to the spay or neuter. We always have this extra testing done to ensure our dogs will tolerate the anesthesia. Return to Top [ Index Page ] [ Family & History ] [ Litter Information ] [ Photo Album ] [ Eskies@eskie.com ] [ Main FAQ's ]