The Alaskan Klee Kai is an American dog breed, developed as a miniature version of the Alaskan Husky, with whom it shares physical and behavioral traits. This breed is noted for its energy and loyalty, and has a distinctive appearance that evokes the image of a wolf.
General details
The breed is of medium size, with a weight ranging from 3 to 11 kilograms, and a height varying from 33 to 43 centimeters. Its life expectancy is 13 to 16 years. The Alaskan Klee Kai is currently not recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI).
Breed history in brief
The Alaskan Klee Kai breed is relatively new, created by Linda Spurlin in the 1970s in Alaska. Linda's goal was to create a smaller version of the Alaskan Husky with similar physical and behavioral characteristics, but one that could adapt to a life as a companion dog. She initially chose a small female Siberian Husky that she crossed with breeds such as Schipperke, American Eskimo Dog and Pomeranian. The breed name "Klee Kai" comes from Inuit and means "small dog".
Today, it is a captivating dog that stands out for its versatility. The breed can be trained to excel in agility, obedience and therapeutic work. These characteristics make it a great companion dog for all ages.
Breed characteristics
Alaskan Klee Kai is a small to medium sized breed that is often described as a miniature of the Alaskan Husky. The chest is muscular and slightly broad and its head is wedge-shaped. One of the most distinctive features of the breed are the eyes, which are bright almond-shaped with different color options, such as blue, brown or a combination of both. The ears are slightly large, erect and triangular in shape, although the tips are somewhat rounded. The tail is long, shaggy and usually curls over the back.
The breed is identified by symmetrical and distinctive dark and white markings. The three usual coat colors are in shades of black, gray or red. Dark coat coloration is limited to the sides of the body, shoulders, hips and upper tail. The symmetrical facial mask is a distinguishing feature of the breed. The coat is thick and requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles.
Alaskan Klee Kai is a high-energy dog with a developed prey drive. It is also known for its intelligence and loyalty. It is an athletic breed that requires regular exercise and mental stimulation.
Common health problems
The Alaskan Klee Kai breed has a certain disposition to suffer from some diseases or disorders that can affect their health. The most common conditions in this breed are progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, patellar luxation, hypothyroidism and factor VII deficiency.
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