Eurasier Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health
- Size
- Medium
- Breed group
- Non-Sporting
- Origin
- Germany
- Height
- 19-24 in (48-60 cm)
- Weight
- 40-70 lb (18-32 kg)
- Lifespan
- 11-13 years
- Energy
- Trainability
- Grooming needs
- Good with kids
The Eurasier is a calm, spitz-type companion dog developed in Germany in the 1960s. It was created by crossing the Chow Chow and the Wolfspitz, with Samoyed added later, with the aim of producing a gentle family dog.
Origins and appearance
Julius Wipfel and Charlotte Baldamus are credited with starting the breed, which was originally called the Wolf-Chow. Eurasiers are medium-sized and sturdy, with a wedge-shaped head, erect ears, a medium-long double coat in colors such as fawn, red, wolf-gray and black and a bushy tail curled over the back. Some have a blue-black tongue.
Temperament
They are calm, gentle and watchful. They bond closely with family and are reserved with strangers. They are usually good with children and other pets. They are quiet and rarely bark much. They dislike being left alone.
Exercise
They need 45 to 90 minutes of daily exercise, with walks and play. They are not tireless. They enjoy time with their family. Mental work matters.
Training
They are intelligent but independent. Use positive, patient methods and early socialization. Avoid harsh corrections. They can be slow to mature and sensitive. See how to use treats in dog training.
Coat and grooming
The double coat sheds seasonally and needs brushing several times a week. See double coat dog grooming guide. Do not shave the coat. Clean ears, trim nails and brush teeth.
Health considerations
Topics include:
- Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
- Eye conditions, including entropion and ectropion
- Hypothyroidism. See hypothyroidism in dogs
- Dental disease. See dental disease in dogs
- Heat stress. See heatstroke in dogs
Living with a Eurasier
They suit calm, attentive owners who want a gentle, quiet companion. They do best with close company. They are poorly suited to long hours alone or kennel life.
A typical day
A Eurasier wants a morning walk, a long rest, family time and an evening stroll. Many are calm and watchful indoors.
Puppies and the first year
Puppies are fluffy and curious. Begin socialization, handling and training early and gently. Provide chew toys. See puppy socialization checklist.
Costs and commitment
Plan for food, grooming tools and vet care. The breed is uncommon, so expect a wait. See dog vet cost guide.
Seasons and travel
They tolerate cold well but overheat in hot weather. Provide shade and water. They travel well when exercised.
Common mistakes
Common mistakes include poor socialization, leaving the dog alone, shaving the coat and underexercising.
Choosing a puppy or adult
Ask about hip and eye testing and the parents' temperaments. Meet the parents and see how they live. Expect a wait.
Bred only as a companion
Unlike many spitz breeds, the Eurasier was developed purely as a family companion, not a hunter or guard. Many clubs emphasize calm temperament and close contact between puppies and people from birth.
Sensitive souls
Many Eurasiers are sensitive and may be shy of strangers or noisy places. Gentle, repeated exposure to new people, sounds and places, always at the dog's own pace, helps build confidence.
Daily care checklist
- A walk or play session.
- Brushing, more in shedding seasons.
- Calm socialization practice.
- Ear checks and nail trims.
- Close company and a cool place to rest.
Is it the right breed for you?
A Eurasier suits attentive owners who want a calm, quiet and gentle companion and will groom and socialize. It may not suit those out all day. For a related spitz breed, see the Samoyed.
The takeaway
Eurasiers are calm, gentle and reserved, and they need grooming, socialization and close company.
Frequently asked questions
What breeds make up the Eurasier?
Chow Chow, Wolfspitz and Samoyed.
Are they good with children?
Often, with respectful children.
Do they bark a lot?
Usually not.
Do they shed?
Yes, seasonally.