Despite its small size, the Alaskan Klee Kai is an excellent companion dog because of its alert, lively, and curious personality. Three sizes are available.
In three sizes, the Alaskan Klee Kai has a smooth, agile, and well-balanced stride; a level top line and a length slightly longer than height; and a body that is well proportioned in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. Its arctic heritage may be seen in the dog's wedge-shaped head, prominent triangle-shaped ears, well-furred double coat, and loosely coiled tail.
When it comes to temperament, the Alaskan Klee Kai is distinct from its predecessor, the working class dog of the north, despite its resemblance to the larger Husky breeds. The Alaskan Klee Kai, like the Husky, is a high-energy breed that needs a lot of attention and exercise to thrive.
They're also prone to whining and barking when they're nervous around strangers. An unskilled pet owner would have a difficult time caring for an Alaskan Klee Kai. However, if the new owner maintains a regular exercise and training regimen, this breed is affectionate, loyal, and eager to please.
Alaskan Klee Kais characteristics and information are detailed in the table below.
Highlights
- It's fitting that the name "Klee Kai" comes from an Inuit term meaning "little dog," given how much smaller this dog is than the Husky breed it is descended from.
- The United Kennel Club and the American Rare Breed Association, among others, recognise Alaskan Klee Kais as a breed even if the American Kennel Club does not.
- Breed standards do not recognise the existence of pure white Alaskan Klee Kais.
- While Alaskan Klee Kais shed a lot, they don't require a lot of grooming and take care of themselves most of the time.
- The breed originated in Alaska, where it was bred for companionship rather than working as a sled dog in the 1970s and 1980s.
- In order for these dogs to be friendly to strangers, they must receive early socialisation training that should continue for the rest of their lives.
- They may not be suitable for homes with other tiny pets, like as cats or rabbits or hamsters, because of their high prey drive. Alaskan Klee Kais are devoted to their human families, yet inexperienced children may accidently injure them or cause them to snap or nip.
Characteristics
Social Appearance
Adaptability
As a common misconception holds, only dogs that are small qualify as apartment pets. There are many tiny dogs that are too energetic and yappy to live in a high-rise apartment complex. If you're looking for an apartment dog, look for one who is well-behaved, quiet, low-energy, and easy to live with. To give your dog some privacy in your apartment, you can get a crate from this site.
Sensitivity Level
While some dogs are unfazed by a firm rebuke, others are taken aback by a filthy stare. If you have a loud or forceful owner, an erratic schedule, or a dog that is more "easygoing," "tolerant," "resilient," or even "thick-skinned," you should consider getting one of these breeds. Playing in a garage band, having small children, or living a hectic lifestyle are all signs that you might fit into this category. Choose a dog that has a low threshold for pain.
Protective nature
A dog's ability to notify you to the presence of strangers. If the mailman or a squirrel outside the window comes knocking, these dogs are more likely to respond aggressively. Strangers entering the house will likely feel welcomed by these dogs, and they will be accepted by their family as well.
Potential for Playfulness
When it comes to playing, a dog's breed is a good indicator of how much they enjoy it. The desire to play tug-of-war or fetch can last into a dog's adulthood for some breeds, while for others, it's all about relaxing on the couch with you.
Personality Appearance
Intelligence
In the same way that dogs who were raised to run all day need to work out their bodies, so too do dogs who were bred for professions that involve decision making and intelligence, like herding sheep. Without cerebral stimulation, they'll make their own work often with activities you despise, such as digging and chewing which you'll have to put up with.
A dog's brain can benefit from activities such as obedience training, engaging dog toys, and canine sports and occupations like agility and search and rescue.
Energy Level
Dogs with a lot of energy are continuously on the lookout for something to do. A canine duty, such as retrieving game for hunters or herding animals requires a lot of stamina; these dogs were originally designed for that purpose. In order to keep up with their high energy demands and to keep their minds engaged, they're more inclined to engage in activities like running, jumping, and exploring new sounds and smells.
Dozing all day is the preferred mode of activity for dogs with low levels of energy. Consider your own level of activity and lifestyle when choosing a breed, and whether or not you'll find a rambunctious, lively dog energising or irritating.
Easy To Train
Those canines that are easier to train are better able to quickly make the connection between a cue (such as the phrase "sit"), an action (such as sitting), and a reward (such as earning a treat." Other dogs require more time, patience, and repetition to learn.
In many cases, you'll need to employ rewards and games to encourage your dog to want to comply with your commands if he approaches training with a "What's in it for me?" attitude.
Family Affection Level
Affectionate With Family
Even if they've been nurtured by the same person since puppyhood, some breeds are stubborn and aloof; others form strong bonds with a single individual and are uninterested in anybody else; and still others lavish affection on the entire family. A dog's level of affection isn't solely determined by its breed; canines who were reared in a household with other people are more likely to be affectionate toward them.
Kid-Friendly
A kid-friendly dog must be kind with children, strong enough to withstand the hefty pets and embraces they can give out, and tolerant of running, scream-inducing toddlers. There are several names you may not expect to see on the list: Fierce-looking It is widely accepted that boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are excellent pets for families with young children (which are considered Pit Bulls). Chihuahuas, being little, sensitive, and prone to snapping, aren't always the most family-friendly of dogs.
Dog Friendly
Friendship with canines is one thing, but friendship with people is quite another. Even though they're good with people, some dogs may attack or try to dominate other dogs; some would prefer play than fight; and yet others may turn tail and flee. It's not only a matter of genetics. puppies who were raised in a household with their littermates and mother for at least six to eight weeks are more likely to have good social skills when they are puppies.
Physical Appearance
Amount of Shedding
Having a dog in the house means that you'll have to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothing and in the house. It's worth noting, however, that shedding varies widely between breeds. There are some dogs that shed all year round, some that "blow" (shedding) seasonally, and still others that shed very little. If you're a stickler for cleanliness, you'll need to choose a breed that sheds less or lower your expectations. You can get an excellent deshedding gadget to assist keep your house a little cleaner.
Drooling Potential
Slobbery dogs may drape ropes of slobber around your arm and leave large wet stains on your clothing when they come over to say hello. Dogs that are less likely to drool may be better suited to those who are more concerned about cleanliness than those who are more relaxed about drooling.
Easy To Groom
Some breeds of dogs can simply be brushed and left alone, while others require frequent washing, trimming, and other grooming in order to maintain their health and appearance. It's important to think about whether or not you have the time and tolerance to deal with a dog that requires a lot of maintenance.
Exercise Needs
Evening walks around the neighbourhood are perfectly acceptable for some breeds. Those that were originally developed for physically demanding jobs, such as herding or hunting, require regular, rigorous exercise.
These breeds may put on weight if they don't get enough exercise, and their pent-up energy may manifest itself in unwanted behaviours like barking, chewing, and digging. Those looking to train their dog for an energetic canine activity, such as agility, may want to consider a high-energy breed that requires a lot of exercise.
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed
Weight
10 to 15 pounds
Lifespan
12 to 16 years
Height
13 to 17 inches
History
Linda S. Spurlin and her family worked in Wasilla, Alaska, from the early 1970s until 1988 to perfect the breed they named after themselves. An American Eskimo Dog, Schipperke, or Siberian husky breed was used to reduce size without sacrificing any of the dog's intelligence or ability to do basic tasks. In 1988, she began selling these canines to the wider public after breeding them in her own backyard.
Due to political concerns, in 1995, the original Klee Kai breed was separated into Alaskan Klee Kai and Klee Kai. In 2002, the breed adopted its current moniker. The Alaskan Klee Kai is a relatively recent breed, yet it has a long history. They have a vivacious and intelligent demeanour, and their ancestry is clearly visible in their physical look.
It is interesting to note that the Alaskan Klee Kai, in contrast to Siberian Huskies, were initially bred for companionship rather than pulling a sled. In 1995, the American Rare Breed Association (ARBA) and the United Kennel Club (UKC) formally recognised the Alaskan Klee Kai.
Personality and Temperament
This clever, high-energy dog is the Alaskan Klee Kai. They aren't, however, "hyper," as the term implies. Because they are so adaptable, they make excellent watchdogs. They are also more wary of strangers than their cousins. It's likely that they'll be by their owner's side when they need attention. They howl and "speak back," but they don't bark excessively.
A Klee Kai can be shy from time to time. Dogs with this disposition are usually spayed or neutered since it is seen as undesirable. Klee kai require modest physical activity. They have the potential to become escape artists due to their superior intellect. The Klee kai has the ability to escape through fences if it is upset. It's possible that Klee kai will commit pranks on their owner, as they have a playful nature. Dog agility is one of their specialties.
If you put an Alaskan Klee Kai through a training programme, he or she will quickly catch up on the most basic commands. As eager to please and food-motivated as they are, these dogs are more than capable of taking on agility training, which can help them burn off some of their high energy levels during the day.
By neglecting their exercise requirements, they may get bored, anxious and destructive. Once they've taken a good, long walk and engaged in some healthy play they are usually content to spend the remainder of the day on the sofa. Keep an eye out for wildlife when taking these dogs on a walk, since they have a high prey drive and may run away.
They enjoy being the centre of attention in their homes, but Alaskan Klee Kais also have a tendency to be abrasive when their needs are not being satisfied. In spite of their tendency to be quieter and less vocal than their Husky ancestors, they will bark and whine when they are unhappy.
Care
The high-energy and gregarious Alaskan klee kai requires regular grooming in addition to offering much exercise and quality time. Their thick double coats keep them warm in the winter, but they also cause a lot of dander build-up. Many thanks.
Holloway recommends brushing or combing your pet's fur every week to keep it from flying around the house. During "shedding seasons," when Alaskan klee kai dogs shed their undercoats twice a year, you may need to brush your dog more frequently. Isn't it wonderful? In Holloway's opinion, the Alaskan klee kai doesn't require regular washes because her coat repels dirt and she doesn't have a distinct "doggie aroma."
Keeping her teeth and ears clear of wax is a must, just like with any other breed. Positive reinforcement training is necessary for the Alaskan klee kai. Their eagerness to please their owners makes them a great pet, but training can bring out their rebellious side. Begin training as soon as possible with a combination of physical and mental games to help individuals learn the fundamentals.
Health
This breed of dog has an average lifetime of 13–16 years and is regarded to be a healthy breed overall. When the kneecap moves out of place, it's known as patellar luxation. Patellar luxation is a mystery, however it may be linked to joint or bone injuries or malformations.
The Alaskan Klee kai, a small breed of dog, is most likely to suffer from this condition. Depending on the degree of damage, the kneecap may need to be surgically realigned to its normal position.
Factor VII deficiency
In people with this illness, the blood clots abnormally, which can lead to severe bruising and bleeding, even from little injuries. What causes this mutation is found in Alaskan Klee Kai. Factor VII deficiency can be diagnosed by genetic testing.
Heart Murmur
Using a stethoscope, you can hear what sounds like whooshing noises when you have a cardiac murmur. When the heart's blood flow is erratic, it results in ventricular fibrillation. If a heart murmur is present, it does not necessarily mean that you have a heart condition, but it could signal that you do.
Thyroid disease
As a result of hypothyroidism, a person's metabolic rate slows. Owners should notify their veterinarians if they see signs including weight gain, lethargy, a sensitivity to the cold, or excessive shedding and dry fur.
Make sure your breeder performs all the appropriate testing and health screenings before you bring home an Alaskan klee kai puppy so you know you're receiving a healthy dog.
Recommended Health Tests
- Patella Evaluation
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
- Thyroid Evaluation
- Cardiac Evaluation
- Factor VII Deficiency DNA test
Nutrition
Dogs like Alaskan Klee Kais, which have a lot of energy, require a meal that will keep them going all day long. Their active lifestyle limits their ability to acquire weight, but they still require adequate nutrients to keep healthy. If you're unsure of how to best feed your Alaskan Klee Kai, talk to your veterinarian or a pet nutritionist.
Grooming
The undercoat of these dogs is short and dense, and the outside coat is medium in length and wiry. Although they only shed a small amount on a year-round basis, shedding tends to rise in the spring and fall. It's recommended that you brush your dog at least once a week to keep mats at bay, but daily brushing may be necessary during seasons of significant shedding.
Fortunately, the coat's natural dirt-repellent properties mean that just a single bath is required every year. Inspect your dog's nails every month or so to see if they need cutting. And don't forget to brush its teeth on a regular basis.
Exercise
These dogs require a daily exercise regimen of at least one hour for their owners to be able to properly care for them. A bored Alaskan Klee kai is more likely to engage in damaging or extremely noisy behaviour.
Alaskan Klee kai are well-suited to long walks, jogs, and climbs because of their high level of stamina. Canine agility and other dog sports provide mental and physical challenges for dogs of all breeds. To keep your dog active while you're away from the house, there are food puzzles available.
Keep your dog in a fenced-in area or on a leash at all times. These dogs are notoriously tough to housebreak. Small in stature, they have the agility to get away swiftly.
Training
These intelligent dogs are usually fast to grasp new concepts and love taking on new tasks. Training can be a challenge because of their independent and free-thinking nature. Positive and rewarding training strategies work effectively with them. To get the best outcomes, make training fun for them by making it appear like a game.
Take your puppy to a puppy obedience lesson as soon as feasible. Your dog should be socialised as soon as possible while it is still a pup, too. They can be shy around strangers and yelp if they sense something is awry. Increasing their sense of security and comfort by exposing children to a variety of people and settings can be a beneficial strategy.
Children and other Pets
The Alaskan Klee Kai is a devoted family dog who enjoys spending time with people of all ages, including youngsters. They're small dogs, though, and young children aren't always taught proper animal interaction. Alaskan Klee Kais may be injured or provoked to nip by them. The Alaskan Klee Kai is no exception to the norm that children should always be supervised when playing with dogs.
Even though Alaskan Klee Kais have a high prey drive, they are usually good with other dogs, especially if they have been socialised early enough. As a result, they are unsuitable for households with small animals unless they have been trained to do so.
Puppies
There are between one and five Alaskan Klee Kai puppies in each litter. The lack of available pups is one of the factors contributing to the breed's high price. You might also try looking for an adoptable dog. Rescues frequently take in young pups whose original families found out they weren't a suitable match.
Alaskan Klee Kais make excellent pets for a single household due to their high intelligence, quick learning curve, and boundless energy. Dogs with a high predation drive can't be left unattended. You should expect to hear a "woo woo" sound from the tiny double-coated Spitz dog. If you're new to dog ownership, this small dog is best suited for you.
The price of these puppies reflects the rarity of this breed. You should expect to pay anywhere from $1200 to $5000 on average. Prices vary greatly depending on the following factors: colour (fur and eyes), sex (male or female), and the quality of the animal. A crimson, blue-eyed girl of show calibre would be the most expensive.
Dog Breed related to Alaskan Klee Kais
You may be interested in other dog breeds because of the limited supply of Alaskan Klee Kais available each year, either from breeders or rescues. Both the American Eskimo Dog and the Keeshond are little dogs that were developed for companionship.
The Siberian Husky
Alaskan Klee Kais may resemble Huskies in appearance, but their diminutive stature is by design. There is no use for them as sled pullers or as guard dogs. Because of their excellent intelligence and patience, they're usually easier to teach than huskies. They are excellent hunters and enjoy being around other people's families..
