DJ Kennels

01/05/2026

"Warning: High levels of fluff ahead! ☁️ This tiny American Eskimo is officially searching for a name. From those soulful eyes to that snowy coat, we can’t get enough! But it's Time to bring her back to her litter mates who are missing her in the room next door.
​Help us make this pup famous—drop a name suggestion below and hit 'Share' to spread the cuteness! ❤️🐕
​ "

01/04/2026

🐾 The Big Day is Here: Selection is Starting here for Emma’s Litter! 🐾

Exciting news from DeJager Family Kennel! The selection process for Emma’s beautiful American Eskimo puppies is officially about to begin.

We know how much you’ve been waiting to meet these little ones, and we can't wait to help you find your new best friend.

How Our Process Works

We believe in a personalized experience to ensure every puppy finds its perfect forever home. Here is how we handle our selections:

Order of Choice: We work through our waiting list in the order that deposits were received. We contact each family individually to start their selection journey.

In-Person or Virtual: You are always welcome to make the drive to meet the puppies in person! However, if you can’t make the trip, don’t worry—we work directly with you virtually to make sure you feel confident in your choice.

Tailored to You: Every family has different "must-haves." We dive deep into your preferences, including:

Gender: Starting with the choice between male or female.

Personality: Are you looking for the spunkiest explorer or the calmest snuggler?

Size & Build: Whether you’re looking for the "runt" of the litter, the biggest pup, or specific bone structures and facial features.

That "Spark": Sometimes, it’s just a specific photo or video where you fall in love at first sight!

"Our goal is to work with each customer independently to ensure you get the puppy that is the absolute best fit for your lifestyle and family."
We are so proud of Emma’s puppies and can’t wait to see which ones join your families!

Have questions about where you are on the list? Reach out to us directly, and we’ll give you an update!

01/04/2026

Did you know the American Eskimo Dog is one of the most trainable breeds in the world?

At DeJager Kennels, we take pride in raising puppies that are not only beautiful but also well-socialized and ready to learn.

​Our current puppies are looking for active families to join. Could that be you?

​Check out our "Available Puppies" page for pricing, health info, and more:

➡️ www.dejagerkennels.com

​

Find out moreThere’s a Puppy for EveryoneLet us find you your best furry friend! Previous slide Next slide Our Breed “Happiness is a warm puppy.” American Eskimos Latest News […]

01/03/2026

Heart = Melted. 🫠 Just a little update from DeJager Family Kennels with some serious fluff-factor!
Should we call this one Snowball, Marshmallow, or something else? Give us your best name ideas in the comments! 👇🐾

12/29/2025

There is nothing quite like the love of an American Eskimo Dog. 🤍

At Dejager Kennels, we are proud to raise these incredible pups. Not only are they stunning to look at, but they are also known for being highly intelligent, alert, and friendly. They make wonderful additions to active families.

We have puppies looking for their forever homes right now!

🐾 Visit our website to view our current litter: https://www.dejagerkennels.com

Send us a message or visit the site if you have any questions!

12/28/2025

DID YOU KNOW? The "Dark" History of the American Eskimo Dog 🐾

Ever wonder why the American Eskimo Dog isn't actually from the Arctic? ❄️

The story behind this fluffy white "cloud" is a wild mix of wartime politics and a 19th-century medical mystery!

1️⃣ The "Rabid" Stigma (The 1800s Crisis) 🐕‍🦺
Long before World War I, the breed (then known as the German Spitz) faced a terrifying PR nightmare. In the late 1800s, a "Spitz Hysteria" swept through U.S. cities. Newspapers falsely claimed that Spitz dogs were more likely to carry rabies than any other breed. 📰

Tragically, this led to "mad dog" panics where these family pets were often hunted or banned from cities. Breeders knew they needed a fresh start to save the dogs they loved.

2️⃣ The World War I Rebrand 🇺🇸
When WWI broke out in 1917, anything "German" became a target of intense anti-German sentiment. People were renaming Sauerkraut "Liberty Cabbage," and the German Spitz was in danger again.

To protect the breed and prove their loyalty:
Owners dropped the "German" name.
They briefly tried "American Spitz."
Finally, they settled on American Eskimo Dog (named after a famous kennel in Ohio!).

3️⃣ Same Dog, New Identity
Despite the name, they have zero genetic connection to Eskimo cultures or sled-pulling. They are 100% European Spitzes that survived history by "Americanizing" their image! 🎩

Today, they are known for being circus performers, brilliant companions, and—most importantly—not "mad dogs."

What do you think? Should we have kept the original name, or did the "Eskie" rebrand save the breed? Let us know in the comments! 👇

12/27/2025

I asked Google to find information on us! Here is what it came up with! 😊

DeJager Kennels (also referred to as DJ Kennels) is a family-run dog breeding operation located in Rock Valley, Iowa. They are primarily known for their long history with American Eskimo Dogs.

Here is a breakdown of the information available about them:
Core Breeds & Offerings
American Eskimo Dogs: This is their specialty. They breed all three size standards: Toy, Miniature, and Standard. The owner, Alex De Jager, has been involved with this breed since 1996.

Training & Socialization: The kennel emphasizes early socialization. Puppies are raised around the family’s five children and are introduced to basic concepts like doggy doors and potty training before going to their new homes.

Credentials & Health
Licensing: They are licensed by the State of Iowa and the USDA, with annual inspections by both entities.

Health Protocol: Puppies are typically sold with a health warranty, up-to-date vaccinations, a deworming schedule, and a vet check.
Registration: Their American Eskimos are most often registeredable dogs.
Contact Information
Owners: Alex and Ashley De Jager
Phone: (712) 470-9274
Website: dejagerkennels.com
Location: Rock Valley, IA (Note: Due to changes following the pandemic, they no longer ship puppies from Sioux Falls, but they do offer "Flight Nannies" for delivery to other cities).

Reputation
Online testimonials from puppy owners generally highlight Alex’s professionalism and knowledge of the breed. Customers often mention that the puppies arrive well-socialized and with gentle temperaments.

Find out moreThere’s a Puppy for EveryoneLet us find you your best furry friend! Previous slide Next slide Our Breed “Happiness is a warm puppy.” American Eskimos Latest News […]

12/26/2025

GOODNIGHT EVERYONE! MERRY CHRISTMAS!

12/25/2025

Merry Christmas, everyone! 🎄✨

​Today, as we celebrate the greatest gift of all—the birthday of Jesus—our hearts are extra full.

We have a sweet little surprise to unveil!

Missy gave birth yesterday to seven beautiful American Eskimo puppies! 🐾❤️

​We are currently on 24-hour "puppy watch." Missy was a bit anxious at first, but she’s settling into motherhood beautifully now.
They are tucked away in a quiet spot right next to Emma and her litter (who are already big enough to be trying to usethe doggy door!).

​It’s a beautiful day for the older pups to explore, but we’ll be keeping everyone tucked in tight during the cool nights. We are so grateful for these new little lives!

​Wishing you all a blessed and Merry Christmas! 🙏✨



Visit www.dejagerkennels.com to see more!

12/25/2025

The wait is almost over! ✨☁️

Emma’s five little girls are growing so fast, and it’s almost time for them to find their forever homes!

We will be starting our selection process very soon. Once our current families have made their picks, we will announce any remaining availability for these stunning female puppies.

Thank you all for your patience and for following along with Emma’s journey! We can’t wait to see which families these girls choose.

Check back here or on our site for availability updates: 🔗 https://dejagerkennels.com/american-eskimos/

Our American Eskimos “A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than you love yourself.”

12/25/2025

From our home to yours, Merry Christmas! 🎄🐾

At DeJager Family Kennels, we know that a dog isn’t just a pet—they’re family. Whether you are celebrating with a veteran American Eskimo or a brand-new puppy this year, we hope your holiday is filled with wagging tails and warm memories.

Thank you for being part of our kennel family this past year. We look forward to seeing you (and your pups!) in 2026!
Safe travels and Merry Christmas,
The De Jager Family

12/25/2025

The "Circus Dog" History (Fun Facts)
Eskies have a fascinating history as performing circus dogs.

"Did you know these 'clouds' were actually the first dogs to walk a tightrope?"

American Eskimo dogs aren't just pretty faces.

In the 1930s, they were stars of the circus! 🎪

They are incredibly smart and love to show off.

What’s the most impressive trick your dog has ever pulled off?"