The Alaskan klee kai is an intelligent, high-activity dog. However, they are not “hyper.” Unlike other husky breeds, they are highly trainable and make good watchdogs. Also unlike their cousins, they are suspicious of strangers. They require their owner’s attention and are most likely found at their owner’s side. They “talk back” and howl, but are not excessive barkers. Occasionally, a klee kai will be people-shy. This temperament is considered undesirable and dogs with this temperament are neutered.Klee kai need a moderate amount of exercise. Because of their intelligence, they can become escape artists. If unhappy, the klee kai can escape through fences. Klee kai have a sense of humor and may play tricks on their owner. They excel in the sport of dog agility.Klee kai make excellent watchdogs, but their size precludes them from being guard dogs. They accept family members and strangers, if introduced by the owner. They are hardy dogs with winter coats.
- •Size ->medium coat.
- •Characteristics ->Intelligent, Curious, Agile, Active, Quick.
- •Group -> working Group.
- •Life Expectancy -> 12 – 16 years.
History
The Alaskan Klee Kai was developed in Alaska by Linda Spurlin and her family to be a companion-sized version of the Alaskan Husky. From the early ‘70s through 1988, the Spurlins carefully selected dogs who met their high standards for appearance and soundness. In 1988, they made the Alaskan Klee Kai available to others. Spurlin originally called her new breed the “Klee Kai,” but in 1995 it was changed to Alaskan Klee Kai.
Size
There are three sizes of Klee Kai:
- Toy Variety: Up to and including 13 inches.
- Miniature Variety: Over 13 inches and up to and including 15 inches.
- Standard Variety: Over 15 inches up to and including 17 inches.
Health
There are few health concerns with the breed. A bleeding disorder called Factor VII has all but been eradicated through thoughtful breeding practices. There have been a handful of reports of congenital heart defects and liver shunts. As with many small breed dogs, luxuriating patella issues are possible.
Coat
Klee Kai have a double coat that can come in any colour other than being all white. They should have a distinct facial mask. While Klee Kai do shed continuously, Sol-berg said their grooming needs are fairly minimal. “My dogs are bathed very infrequently because they don’t need it. They tend to blow their coat twice a year, during which time you wonder how such a small dog could produce so much hair and if it will ever stop.”