As stated previously, the Alaskan Klee Kai is a new breed that dates back to the mid 1970s when an Alaskan woman by the name of Linda Spurlin brought a small Siberian Husky-like dog back to Alaska from Oklahoma. She loved this little dog so much that she decided to try to establish it as a new breed. After about 18 years of selective breeding, Spurlin was able to stabilize the breed. It is thought that she may have used such dogs as Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Huskies, American Eskimo Dogs and Schipperkes to establish her new breed. The dogs were named Alaskan Klee Kais in the mid 90s and were recognized by the American Rare Breed Association in 1995 and by the United Kennel Club in 1997.
Alaskan Klee Kais look much like small versions of Siberian or Alaskan Huskies. In fact, some of these little fellows only grow to about nine pounds full grown. On the other end, some Klee Kais can weigh as much as 23 pounds. Just as with their larger cousins, the Alaskan Klee Kai has a thick, medium-length double-coat that comes in a variety of colors including gray and white, black and white, and red and white.
Personality
These dogs are very intelligent and curious. They enjoy exploring their surroundings and can be quite mischievous if not trained at an early age. They also tend to be a bit high-strung and do not get along well with young children and small animals such as birds, cats, hamsters and rabbits. Alaskan Klee Kais, also known as Miniature Huskies, are small spitz-type dogs that resemble Alaskan Huskies. This is a fairly new breed that has become quite popular in Alaska and is making its way to other places in the country as well. Due to its small size, the Klee Kai makes a perfect pet for most any home.
Breed Characteristics
Life Span: | 10-13 Years |
Nicknames: | The Miniature Huskies |
Alaskan Klee Kai Build Information
Alaskan Klee Kais look much like small versions of Siberian or Alaskan Huskies. In fact, some of these little fellows only grow to about nine pounds full grown. On the other end, some Klee Kais can weigh as much as 23 pounds. Just as with their larger cousins, the Alaskan Klee Kai has a thick, medium-length double-coat that comes in a variety of colors including gray and white, black and white, and red and white.
Size: | Small |
Behaviour and Personality
These dogs are very intelligent and curious. They enjoy exploring their surroundings and can be quite mischievous if not trained at an early age. They also tend to be a bit high-strung and do not get along well with young children and small animals such as birds, cats, hamsters and rabbits. Alaskan Klee Kais, also known as Miniature Huskies, are small spitz-type dogs that resemble Alaskan Huskies. This is a fairly new breed that has become quite popular in Alaska and is making its way to other places in the country as well. Due to its small size, the Klee Kai makes a perfect pet for most any home.
Activity Level: | Very Active |
Affection Level: | Affectionate |
Kid Friendliness: | Friendly |
Appearance
The Alaskan Klee Kai blows its coat two times a year. At these times, you will want to be sure to brush your dog every day to remove any dead hair and prevent mats from forming. Other than that, a weekly brushing, occasional nail trimming and a monthly bath is typically sufficient.
Shedding: | Moderate |
Grooming: | Medium Maintenance |
Alaskan Klee Kai Common Health Conditions
The average lifespan of a healthy Alaskan Klee Kai is 10 to 13 years. While the majority of these dogs seem to be quite healthy, some do develop various health problems including cryptorchidism, stomach issues, patellar luxation, thyroid diseases and juvenile cataracts.
Alaskan Klee Kai Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
The smallest Alaskan Klee Kai to date weighed in at only five pounds. Currently, there are only about 1,500 Alaskan Klee Kais in the world. If you are looking for a lively and intelligent dog that can fit into most any home, you may want to consider an Alaskan Klee Kai. These little dogs have a lot of energy and love to run and play. However, if you have other small pets, you may want to reconsider getting a Klee Kai.
Training: | Moderately easy to train |