What Is a Marshmallow Dog Breed? (2023)

There are many dog breeds in the world, but even so, hearing about the “marshmallow dog breed” can catch just about anyone’s attention. What is this breed and why are they marshmallows?

The marshmallow dog is not a legitimate breed but rather a nickname given to two kinds of popular dog breeds: the American Eskimo and the Samoyed. Both breeds are known as marshmallows because of their dense, white fur.

Keep reading below to find out interesting facts about the so-called marshmallow dog breed.

Before you read this list of dog breeds, check out: 10 Friendliest Dog Breeds With Pictures! (2023) and 100 Best Samoyed Dog Names! (2023).

What Is a Marshmallow Dog Breed?

Do you know what marshmallow dogs are? They are the softest, whitest, fluffiest canines you’ll ever meet, and their name comes from their appearance.

However, “marshmallow” isn’t the name of a specific breed of dog. In fact, the dog breeds commonly referred to as “marshmallows” are notable for representing two different popular breeds. Samoyeds and American Eskimo Dogs, both pure-white dogs, are commonly referred to as “marshmallow dogs.”

Samoyed History

Samoyeds were initially bred to help the Samoyedic people of northwest Siberia in a variety of tasks, including hunting, herding reindeer, and pulling sleds. The nomadic Samoyedic people were known for their tolerance and the exceptional love they showed for their stunning canine companions.

As a result, the dogs bred by these people developed a deep fondness for and understanding of human beings, as well as an unwavering trust in and allegiance to their human family. They continue to be children’s reliable best friends and fun playmates.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Samoyeds were exported from Siberia to serve as sled dogs on polar exploration missions. These brave dogs helped humans endure harsh conditions on their way to the polar regions. Unfortunately, only a small percentage of them made it back.

Obviously, a small toy Samoyed would not have been able to do what was required of it. The Samoyed is the only breed that can truly be considered a working dog due to its combination of strength, gentleness, and magnificence.

Many modern-day Samoyeds in the United Kingdom and the United States trace their ancestry back to the original expedition sled dogs.

Despite the fact that the first American Samoyed, a Russian import, was officially registered with the AKC in 1906, the vast majority of modern American Samoyeds can trace their genealogy back to dogs imported after World War I.

He is fine sleeping outside, but would much rather be inside, and needs to spend a good chunk of each day being a cherished member of the household, right in the middle of all the action.

The Samoyed breed’s greatest strength, in the eyes of Samoyed dog lovers, is their eager willingness to take part in every aspect of our daily life.

American Eskimo History

The Indigenous people often known as Eskimos had nothing to do with the development of the American Eskimo Dog, despite the breed’s name.

The early 1800s saw a large influx of German immigrants to the United States, who had a profound impact on the growth and development of the Midwest.

The Germanic peoples brought with them more than just Lutheranism, beer, and German cuisine; they also carried with them the German Spitz, a Nordic dog breed.

Due to their intelligence and agility, these dogs rose to prominence in the 1930s as show dogs. One of the most well-known performing dogs at the time was an Eskie named Pierre.

The United States entered World War I in 1917, and by then, prejudice towards all things German was rampant. This led to the breed’s new name, “American Eskimo Dog,” which was inspired by the name of an Ohio Spitz kennel.

The first American Eskimo Dog was granted registration with the American Kennel Club in 1995, despite the breed’s lengthy and fascinating history in the United States.

These tiny white canines performed a variety of duties on Midwestern fields and later delighted circus goers. The modern dog owner values them for their versatility and the fact that they are a lot of fun to play with.

Differences Between Samoyed vs American Eskimo Dog

In this section, we’ll discuss the differences between the two marshmallow dog breeds.

Size

When compared side by side, a Samoyed is immediately distinguishable from an American Eskimo. The Samoyed, for instance, towers over the American Eskimo Dog in both dimensions.

When compared to the average Samoyed, an American Eskimo dog is more likely to be on the smaller or medium side. Let’s take a look at those numbers in more detail right now.

In comparison to the Samoyed, which averages 21 to 23 inches in height, the American Eskimo Dog tops out at nine to 19 inches. However, that’s not the entirety of their differences.

The Samoyed has a larger frame than the typical American Eskimo Dog, which contributes to the fact that they weigh more. The usual weight of a Samoyed is between 35 and 65 pounds, but an American Eskimo Dog can be anywhere from six and 35 pounds.

Appearance

Since both the American Eskimo and the Samoyed have fluffy white coats, telling them apart can be challenging at best. Both of these canine breeds are exclusively white without any additional colors or markings.

Nevertheless, in addition to the readily apparent disparities in their sizes, there are also some variances in the way they appear physically. Let’s check that out right now.

Coat density is a major distinguishing feature between these two canine breeds. The American Eskimo Dog, for instance, has a single layer of soft fur, whereas the Samoyed’s double coat is exceptionally dense and serves to protect it from the cold.

Even though American Eskimo Dogs don’t have as much fur as Samoyeds, they nevertheless prefer milder regions.

Both canines share the same short, triangular ears and long muzzles. Samoyeds, in comparison to American Eskimo Dogs, have larger and more rounded heads on average. The fact remains, nevertheless, that these two breeds are sometimes virtually indistinguishable from one another.

Behavior

To some extent, the Samoyed and the American Eskimo have contrasting personalities. Samoyeds, for instance, are excellent family pets, but an American Eskimo Dog might be too hyperactive for a home with young children.

Extreme intelligence in both canines comes with the risk of stubbornness and separation anxiety, therefore constant attention to their energy levels is required.

Care

As far as doggy maintenance is concerned, every breed has its own specific requirements. A dog with short hair will require less maintenance than one with lengthy hair. You should also be aware of the widespread health problems that affect certain breeds.

The oil that naturally occurs in the skin of American Eskimos helps them in maintaining a clean appearance. Therefore, they might not require a full bath as frequently as a Samoyed would.

Both of these stunning dogs have lengthy hair that will need to be brushed multiple times per day. Thankfully, the market is stocked with a wide variety of grooming products that make routine maintenance a breeze.

Both types of dogs shed heavily. No matter what breed of dog you get, you’ll need a good vacuum.

Diet and Health

There are various health issues that affect both American Eskimo and Samoyed dogs. Hip dysplasia is an issue that can affect both of them. However, conscientious breeders will conduct tests to identify such problems.

Your American Eskimo or Samoyed, like any dog, needs to have his or her ears checked and cleaned on a regular basis. Maintaining a regular schedule for dental checkups and cleanings is also essential for a healthy dog.

Both types of dogs should be able to thrive on the standard, high-quality food that is specialized for dogs.

When it comes to training both the American Eskimo Dog and the Samoyed, it is common knowledge that treats play an important role. To prevent weight gain, though, it’s important to keep track of how many treats you’re doling out.

Lifespan

The longevity of the American Eskimo Dog and the Samoyed is the final distinguishing feature between the two breeds. The American Eskimo dog outlives the Samoyed despite being a smaller dog. But by how much, exactly?

The typical lifespan of an American Eskimo Dog is 13 to 15 years, while that of a Samoyed is 12 to 14 years. However, this is very dependent on the care and health of your specific dog.

The secret to a long and happy life for your Samoyed or American Eskimo is to give it lots of activity and a healthy diet.

Which Marshmallow Breed Is Right For You?

Which is better, an American Eskimo or a Samoyed? Well, that’s up to you to decide. Are you in need of a furry best friend who can keep the bad guys out of your house? Then maybe you’d like an American Eskimo Dog.

Or, are you the type of person that is always on the go and has a lot of attention and energy to share? If that’s the case, a Samoyed could be a better fit for you.

Despite coming from separate places, these two breeds look and act very much alike. Although the American Eskimo Dog is noticeably smaller and more amenable to training, both breeds result in a dog that is generally healthy and content with its life.

At the end of the day, each breed has a lot of merit and should be considered.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion for “What Is a Marshmallow Dog Breed”

So, although the marshmallow dog is not really a legitimate breed, the dogs it refers to belong to AKC-registered breeds. These dogs are wonderful companions that are just as wonderful to look at as they are to own.

Check out these other lists of dog breeds:

• Everything You Need To Know About The White Pomeranian! (2023)
• 12 Dog Breeds That Whine a Lot! (2023)
• Dog Breeds That Start With T! (2023)

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