Alaskan Klee Kai Breed Information
Description: The Alaskan Klee Kai is best described as a companion-sized dog similar to the Alaskan Husky. Though Alaskan Klee Kai dogs are smaller than huskies, they are energetic and intelligent with long, thick, and often white fur. This breed, developed in the late 20th century categorized as a Spitz type, have pointed ears with tails that curl over the dog’s back. In some cases, the tail droops. The personality traits of an Alaskan Klee Kai are sweet, loyal and affectionate.
Other Names: AKK, Klee Kai, Mini Husky
Type: Spitz
Height: 15-17 inches.
Weight: 16 -22 lbs.
Colors: The most common colors of Alaskan Klee Kai are black and white; grey and white or red and white. While fully white Alaskan Klee Kai dogs exist, those who own them may not register them in United Kennel Club competitions. Until recently, solid white Alaskan Klee Kai were disqualified by the breed standard.
Coat: Alaskan Klee Kai have two types of coats: Standard and full-coated varieties. What sets the coats apart are the length. As long as the coat length does not obstruct the outline of the dog, they are allowed to compete, according to the United Kennel Club. On the surface, the breed has long guard hairs. Below that is a short, soft undercoat that gives the dog thermal protection from extreme hot and cold climates.
Temperament: While the breed is known for being high-energy, Alaskan Klee Kai can be shy, defensive, cautious and skittish around strangers or new surroundings. Since this breed has a strong sense of loyalty to their owner, it is essential to keep the dog on a leash when outside. Another trait to know about this breed is their separation anxiety. If they’re away from their owner for an extended period of time, they are known to howl and scratch furniture and household items.
With Children: This breed is considered an ideal family dog to raise around young children but adult moderation is recommended. If the children are taught to be careful with animals, Alaskan Klee Kai will be a great addition to the family. They will, however, not tolerate being mistreated.
With Pets: Smaller animals – like rabbits, hamsters, cats and birds – must be introduced to this breed while they are puppies. If not, the dog will mistake them as prey.
Watch-dog: The breed’s high-alert nature and fast reaction skills make the Alaskan Klee Kai an ideal watch dog. They can get a sense of danger in a moment notice, knowing what and who does not belong in their home. They have no problem letting their owner know that something when a visitor or intruder is nearby.
Guard-dog: The petite size of the Alaskan Klee Kai prevents them from being a successful guard-dog. The breed is not known for being aggressive or mean, therefore they won’t fare well in a direct encounter with an enemy. They’re better at sending warning signals to their owner than facing the threat head on.
Care and Training: The key to caring for an Alaskan Klee Kai is exercise. The breed performs best when given the freedom to run and let off some steam. Otherwise, the breed’s energetic nature will cause the dog anxiety and distress. When it comes to grooming, the Alaskan Klee Kai takes care of themselves but the standard owner responsibilities of brushing their hair twice a year when they begin shedding, cutting their nails and brushing their teeth are necessary. The breed doesn’t require a lot of baths but are recommended to get them three to four times a year. Training an Alaskan Klee Kai should come with affection and care. They are quick learners and should be trained while they are young.
Learning Rate: High. Obedience- Very high. Alaskan Klee Kai aim to please their owners by excelling in obedience training. Problem Solving- High.
Activity: Very high.
Living Environment: The ideal living environment for this breed should be a house with a yard, even if the yard is small. Since they are petite in size, Alaskan Klee are also comfortable in an apartment as long as they are taken on daily walks.
Health Issues: Alaskan Klee Kai have miraculously avoided genetic defects when compared to other small dog breeds. However, the breed’s health concerns are Thyroid Disease, Autoimmune Thyroditis, FVII Deficiency, juvenile cataracts, liver disease, pyometra, patellar luxation, cryptorchidism, and cardiac issues.
Life Span: 12-16 years.
Litter Size: 1-5 puppies.
Country of Origin: Alaska
History: The breed was developed in the early 1970’s by Linda S. Spurlin and her family, announcing the breed to the public in 1988. She discovered an undersized Alaskan husky and fell in love with it, deciding it would be the ideal companion. Alaskan Klee Kai came to be by mixing Siberian and Alaskan huskies with Schipperke and American Eskimo dogs. While huskies were bred as sled dogs, Alaskan Klee Kai were bred to be companion dogs.
First Registered by the AKC: Alaskan Klee Kai is not an AKC recognized breed.
AKC Group: N/A.
Class: Spitz
Registries: American Rare Breed Association, United Kennel Club.
