The Alaskan Klee Kai is a small, lively dog that looks like a mini version of the Alaskan Husky. These dogs are known for their striking looks, smart minds, and playful nature. Let’s get to know more about this unique breed.
History and Background
The Alaskan Klee Kai is a new breed that started in the 1970s. A woman named Linda Spurlin in Alaska wanted a smaller dog that looked like a Husky but could be a good family pet. She mixed Alaskan and Siberian Huskies with smaller dogs like the Schipperke and American Eskimo Dog to create the Alaskan Klee Kai.
“Klee Kai” means “small dog” in an Inuit language, which fits this breed perfectly. The breed became officially recognized in the 1990s and has been loved by dog owners for its size and personality since then.
Physical Characteristics
Alaskan Klee Kais come in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. They usually weigh between 5 to 22 pounds and stand about 13 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder. Even though they are small, they have a sturdy and athletic build.
Their thick, double-layered coat comes in different colors, including black and white, gray and white, and red and white. They have sharp, triangular ears, expressive eyes that can be blue, brown, or even a mix of both, and a tail that curls over their back. This gives them a classic husky look in a smaller package.
Personality and Temperament
Alaskan Klee Kais are very smart and curious dogs. They are loyal to their families and often a bit shy around strangers. This makes them good watchdogs. They love to learn and do well with training, but sometimes they can be a bit stubborn.
These dogs are full of energy and love to play. They enjoy activities like running, hiking, and fetch. Even though they are small, they have a lot of energy and need regular exercise to stay happy. They are also known for being vocal, often “talking” or howling to express themselves.
Care and Grooming
Taking care of an Alaskan Klee Kai means making sure they get enough exercise and grooming. They need daily walks or playtime to burn off their energy. Because they are curious and have a bit of a hunting instinct, it’s important to keep them on a leash or in a secure yard when they are outside.
Their thick coat needs regular brushing to keep it clean and manage shedding. They shed a lot, especially during spring and fall, so brushing a few times a week is needed. They don’t need frequent baths, but you should trim their nails, clean their ears, and brush their teeth regularly to keep them healthy.
Health
Alaskan Klee Kais are generally healthy dogs and can live between 12 to 16 years. However, like all breeds, they can have some health issues. Common problems include knee issues (like patellar luxation), thyroid problems, and heart conditions. Regular vet check-ups and a good diet can help keep them healthy.
Since they are a new breed, they usually have fewer genetic problems compared to some older breeds. It’s important to get your Klee Kai from a responsible breeder who checks for these health problems.
Living with an Alaskan Klee Kai
Living with an Alaskan Klee Kai can be fun for active people or families. They need plenty of attention, exercise, and mental stimulation. These dogs love to be involved in family activities and don’t like being left alone for long periods.
They can live in different settings, like apartments or houses with yards, as long as they get enough exercise. They usually get along well with kids and other pets if they are socialized from a young age .
For more information on Alaskan Klee Kais, check out PetMD and the Alaskan Klee Kai Association of America.
