Alaskan Klee Kai

Developed in the late 20th century, the Alaskan Klee Kai is a small companion breed crafted from northern and Spitz dogs to resemble a miniature Siberian Husky or Alaskan Malamute. Unlike their larger ancestors, these dogs are bred more for companionship than work, though they share the Husky’s high energy and need for exercise. While they may look like mini Huskies, they have distinct differences in temperament and purpose. They are often shy with strangers and vocal with their emotions.
Breed Group

Breed Group

Purebred

Height

Height

12-17 inches

Weight

Weight

6-25 pounds

Life Span

Life Span

13-16 years

Average Cost

Average Cost

$2,500-$3,000

Color

Color

White, Red, Gray, Black

AKC Group

AKC Group

Not Recognized

All About Breed

Keep reading to learn more about Alaskan Klee Kai. Explore their origin, personality traits, dietary, health needs, and more:

In This Article
Alaskan Klee Kai History/Origin

Alaskan Klee Kai History/Origin

The Alaskan Klee Kai traces its lineage back to the ancient native dogs that have roamed Alaska for millennia. These purebred dogs were more than just pets; they were vital to survival in Alaska’s harsh conditions, aiding tribal and nomadic groups by pulling sledshikinghuntingtracking, and serving as early warning systems for dangers like wild animals or intruders. 

The Alaskan Interior Village dogs, a key component of what became the Alaskan Husky type, contributed significantly to this lineage. In the early 1900s, Alaskan Huskies were further enriched with Siberian Husky bloodlines, leading to a breed renowned for its intelligence, energy, and work ethic.

The Alaskan Klee Kai we know today was developed in Alaska by Linda Spurlin and her family beginning in the early 1970s. Through a meticulous breeding program, they aimed to create a smaller, companion-sized version of the Alaskan Husky with distinctive symmetrical facial markings and a robust health profile.

True to their heritage, Alaskan Klee Kais are versatile and adaptable, thriving in various roles such as travel companions, hiking partners, sports enthusiaststherapy dogs, and, most importantly, loving family pets for all ages.

Alaskan Klee Kai Personality

Alaskan Klee Kai Personality

The Alaskan Klee Kai is one of the dog breeds that is a loving companion to its human family, though it may sometimes appear aloof. With its sharp intelligence, this breed is highly trainable and eager to please. The Klee Kai can get along with cats, especially if they’ve been raised together.

Dog Personality-Prefers to be alone

  • Potential Challenges

While a wonderful companion, the Alaskan Klee Kai presents some challenges. Its small size, while charming, limits its effectiveness as a guard dog compared to larger breeds. The Klee Kai’s high energy and intelligence require ample exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom.

Additionally, this breed can be somewhat aloof with strangers and may be prone to vocalizing its displeasure, which can be a bit of a nuisance. Socialization is crucial, especially with other pets like cats, as the Klee Kai might be rough with them if not introduced properly. Managing these aspects will ensure a happy and well-adjusted Alaskan Klee Kai.

Alaskan Klee Kai Physical Appearance

Alaskan Klee Kai Physical Appearance

The Alaskan Klee Kai features a well-balanced and proportionate physique. It has a distinctive wedge-shaped head, a slightly curled tail, and triangular ears. The breed’s eyes can be brownblue, or amber, complementing its wide, black nose.

  • Size

The Alaskan Klee Kai is a small dog that usually stands between 12 and 17 inches tall. Its weight varies from 6 to 25 pounds, depending on the individual dog’s size and build.

Dogs size- Small

  • Coat color

The Alaskan Klee Kai is recognized in three standard coat colors: red and white, black and white, and gray and white. Although solid white coats are also seen, these dogs typically have either a standard or full coat. Both coat types are double-layered, featuring a soft undercoat and a longercoarser outer coat that protects against harsh weather conditions.

  1. Light brown Alaskan Klee Kai - ThePetWorldLight brown Alaskan Klee Kai- Source: AKC.org
  2. Brown and White Alaskan Klee Kai - ThePetWorldBrown and White Alaskan Klee Kai- Source: AKC.org
  3. Black and White Alaskan Klee Kai - ThePetWorldBlack and White Alaskan Klee Kai- Source: alaskankleekai
Alaskan Klee Kai Gender Differences

Alaskan Klee Kai Gender Differences

In the Alaskan Klee Kai breed, the main difference between genders is size, with males typically being about 4 inches taller than females. Aside from this size variation, there are no significant personality differences between males and females. Both genders exhibit similar traits and temperaments.

Alaskan Klee Kai Feed/Nutrition

Alaskan Klee Kai Feed/Nutrition

To keep your Alaskan Klee Kai well-nourished, feed them raw dog food twice dailymorning and evening. Adding sardines to their diet at least three times a week can be beneficial. Additionally, offer raw organic meat such as liverheart, or kidney once a week.

As high-energy dogs, Klee Kais need a diet that supports their active lifestyle. Ripe tomatoes can be given in moderation as treats, providing vitamins, but remove stems and leaves, which can be toxic.

While their energy levels help prevent excessive weight gain, proper nutrition is essential for their overall health. For tailored dietary advice, consult your veterinarian or a professional nutritionist.

Alaskan Klee Kai Health

Alaskan Klee Kai Health

The Alaskan Klee Kai breed is typically recognized for its strong health and low incidence of genetic problems. However, owners should remain aware of certain medical conditions to which the breed is prone, including:

  • Patellar Luxation: This occurs when the kneecap dislocates from its usual position, causing pain and difficulty walking. To prevent this, ensure regular vet check-ups to catch early signs and maintain a healthy weight for your Alaskan Klee Kai. Avoid high-impact activities that could strain the joints.
  • Autoimmune Thyroiditis: It is a condition where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism with symptoms like lethargy and skin issues. Preventive measures include regular thyroid function tests and a balanced diet. Consult your vet if any symptoms arise.
  • Heart Murmur: It is an abnormal sound during a heartbeat that can indicate heart disease, potentially causing coughing or exercise intolerance. Regular vet check-ups and heart screenings are essential for early detection. Maintaining a healthy weight and providing appropriate exercise can support heart health.
  • Eye Issues: In Alaskan Klee Kais can include cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), affecting vision. Regular eye exams by a veterinarian are crucial for monitoring eye health. Protect your dog from excessive sun exposure and provide a balanced diet to support eye health.
  • Factor VII Deficiency: This is a rare bleeding disorder where the blood lacks clotting factor VII, making it difficult to stop bleeding and leading to excessive bruising. Early diagnosis through blood tests is important, and avoiding activities that could cause injury is recommended. Consult your vet for management and treatment options.
Alaskan Klee Kai Care and Grooming

Alaskan Klee Kai Care and Grooming

Caring for an Alaskan Klee Kai involves ensuring their exercise needs are met, as they can become high-strung and anxious without sufficient activity. Regular care includes brushing their teethclipping their nails, and cleaning their ears, so consulting your veterinarian about their specific needs is recommended.

Unlike many breeds, Alaskan Klee Kais typically do not develop a dog odor and tend to groom themselves, so they may not require frequent baths. However, they will need regular brushing during coat-shedding seasons, which occur before summer and winter.

During these times, they shed heavily, while shedding is moderate throughout the rest of the year. Additionally, training your dog not to bite should start early, as it’s an important part of managing their behavior, especially during times of heightened energy.

Dog grooming weekly- activity level high

Alaskan Klee Kai Rescue Groups

Alaskan Klee Kai Rescue Groups

If you’re considering adopting an Alaskan Klee Kai, checking with breed-specific rescue groups can be a great way to find a loving companion. These organizations specialize in rescuing and rehoming Klee Kais, giving them a second chance at a happy life. They can offer valuable insights into the breed and help match you with a dog that suits your lifestyle.

Alaskan Klee Kai National Rescue

Petfinder

Alaskan Klee Kai Price

Alaskan Klee Kai Price

The price of an Alaskan Klee Kai typically ranges from $2,500 to $3,000, depending on factors such as breeder reputation, pedigree, and location.

When looking to purchase an Alaskan Klee Kai, it’s crucial to choose a reputable breeder who prioritizes health, proper socialization, and adherence to breed standards. Ethical breeders focus on the well-being of their dogs and conduct thorough health screenings.

Lanchester Puppies

Greenfield Puppies

Interesting Facts

Interesting Facts

  • Vanessa Hudgens has been seen with her Alaskan Klee Kai in social media posts.

Vanessa Hudgens

Vanessa Hudgens- Source: Pinterest

  • The Alaskan Klee Kai can also have unique eye variations, such as bi-eyes (each eye a different color) or parti-eyes (two colors within the same eye).
Best For

Best For

The Alaskan Klee Kai is best suited for active individuals or families who can meet their high energy and exercise needs. They thrive with owners who can provide regular physical activity and mental stimulation. This breed is also a good fit for those who appreciate a smallerintelligent dog with a strong personality. They adapt well to a variety of lifestyles but require dedicated care and attention to stay happy and healthy.

Dog Best For- Families

Top Names

Top Names

Male Alaskan Klee Kai Names Female Alaskan Klee Kai Names
Max Bella
Loki Luna
Diesel Zoe
Rex Mia
Jasper Daisy

Pet Ratings

Adaptability

They are not the best dogs for first-timers but not the worst as well. They are known to be friendly and easy to train, which can make them a great pick for first-timers. The downside is that they require a lot of attention and grooming, which first-time pet owners may not have the time, training, or patience for.

Friendliness

There are different types of friendliness. Some dogs may be friendly to humans but not to other dogs. Other dogs may be friendly to both humans and other dogs. The breed is not the only factor that determines how friendly a dog will be. Dogs who have spent time with their siblings and mother until they are six to eight weeks old and have played with other dogs a lot during puppyhood are more likely to be friendly to other dogs.

Health and Grooming Needs

Some breeds of dogs such as this one, are more likely to have certain health problems. This doesn't mean that every dog of that breed will have those diseases, but they are more likely to. If you're adopting a puppy, it's a good idea to find out which genetic illnesses are common to the breed.

Trainability

Dogs are one of the most popular pets in the world, and it's not hard to see why. They provide us with companionship, love, and security. But when it comes to training, some dog breeds are definitely easier to work with than others. This breed is known for being particularly easy to train.

Exercise Needs

Many people choose to get a dog based on their exercise needs. If you live an active lifestyle and are looking for a dog that can keep up with you, there are a few breeds that might be a good fit. This breed is one of them as it also requires extensive exercise and likes to stay active.

Key Takeaways

Ancient Roots: The Alaskan Klee Kai has deep historical ties to native Alaskan dogs, originally bred for their agility and endurance in harsh environments.

Mini Husky Vibes: Although they resemble a smaller version of the Siberian Husky, the Alaskan Klee Kai is a distinct breed with its traits and purpose.

High Energy: These dogs are energetic and require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy, so they’re perfect for active individuals or families.

Low Odor, High Grooming: They typically don’t have a strong dog odor and groom themselves well, but they do need regular brushing, especially during shedding seasons.

How big does Alaskan Klee Kai get?

Alaskan Klee Kais typically range in height from 12 to 17 inches and weigh between 6 to 25 pounds.

How long does Alaskan Klee Kai live?

The Alaskan Klee Kai has a lifespan of around 13 to 16 years with proper care, exercise, and a balanced diet.

Are Alaskan Klee Kais cuddly?

While Alaskan Klee Kais are affectionate with their families, they can be a bit reserved with strangers. They enjoy bonding with their owners but may not be overly cuddly like some other breeds.

What are the cons of owning an Alaskan Klee Kai?

Some potential downsides include their high energy levels, which require plenty of exercise. They can be shy around strangers, are vocal (prone to barking and whining), and their shedding, especially during seasonal coat changes, can be considerable.

Is Alaskan Klee Kai expensive?

Yes, Alaskan Klee Kais can be quite expensive due to their rarity, with prices ranging between $1,500 to $3,000 or more, depending on lineage, breeder, and location.

Are Alaskan Klee Kai good pets?

Yes, Alaskan Klee Kais can make wonderful pets for active individuals or families. They are loyal, intelligent, and highly trainable, but they do require lots of exercise and mental stimulation.

Is an Alaskan Klee Kai a mini husky?

While they resemble a miniature Husky in appearance, the Alaskan Klee Kai is a distinct breed with differences in temperament and purpose, being bred primarily as a companion animal rather than a working dog.

Does Alaskan Klee Kai have health issues?

Alaskan Klee Kai is generally healthy but can be prone to certain conditions such as patellar luxation, autoimmune thyroiditis, heart murmurs, and eye disorders. Regular check-ups and responsible breeding practices help mitigate these risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

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