Alaskan Klee Kai

Vital Statistics:

Place of Origin: United States

Group: Companion, Toy

Height: toy-up to 13 in.; miniature-13-15 in.; standard-15-17 in.

Weight: toy-less than 10 lbs.; miniature-13 lbs.; standard-23 lbs.

Life span: 10-13 yrs.

Trainability: high

Good with children: when socialized early

Good with other pets: when trained and socialized early

Dog of the month for March

Alaskan Klee Kai (means “dog little”) one of the newer breeds, it looks like a smaller version of the Alaskan Husky.

What is the origin of the Alaskan Klee Kai?

The Alaskan Klee Kai is one of the newer breeds. Linda S. Spurlin along with her family, all of Wasilla, Alaska, bred the dog 40 years ago. The Alaskan Husky was used with smaller breeds and some Siberian Husky to produce the Klee Kai. Both plural and singular, Klee Kai means “dog little”, a smaller version of the Alaskan Husky.

What does the Alaskan Klee Kai look like?

In spite of its diminutive size, the Klee Kai is very strong. There are 3 sizes, Toy, Miniature and Standard. The Toy is up to 13 inches tall and weighs less than 10 lbs.; the Miniature is 13-15 inches tall and weighs 13 lbs.; the Standard is 15-17 inches tall and weighs 23 lbs. Ears are erect. The double coat is thick with a neck ruff. Colors are any color. The face mask must be clearly visible. The coat requires frequent brushing to control shedding.

What is the temperament of the Alaskan Klee Kai?

The Alaskan Klee Kai is very loyal to its family. As with all dogs, the Klee Kai should have early positive training. Early socialization is very necessary as the Klee Kai tends to be mistrustful of non-family members. Daily handling and interaction from the time they are pups is very important. Personalities can vary – some are shy, some are very active, others can be laid back. They are good with children when socialized early with them under supervision. They will be good with other pets when trained. The Klee Kai’s size makes them suitable for apartment living. A fenced-in yard makes a good playground for them, but they do need daily, long walks.

What is the Alaskan Klee Kai used for?

The Alaskan Klee Kai does well in agility and obedience trials, is strong enough to enter weight-pulling contests and competes in conformation. Most of all the Alaskan Klee Kai is an intelligent, loyal companion.

Possible Health Issues

There are no known health issues at present but liver, kidney and thyroid checkups are recommended.