What to Know About Owning an Alaskan Klee Kai
Alaskan Klee Kais are a unique breed of dog. They look like huskies, but they’re actually the product of an intentional cross-breeding between Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Huskies. The resulting dogs were bred to be companions for people living in isolated areas where there aren’t many other animals or people around.
These days, Alaskan Klee Kais are popular pets—they’re friendly and affectionate, but also playful and energetic. However, you should know that they do have some special needs when it comes to owning them properly! Here’s everything you need to know about these unique dogs if this is your first time getting one:
They were bred in the 1970s to be companion dogs
The Alaskan Klee Kai is a small, fluffy dog that was bred to be a companion dog. They were bred by an Alaskan breeder in the 1970s who wanted to create a breed with the personality of an Alaskan Husky and the size of a Siberian Husky.
The breed isn’t technically recognized by any major kennel club, but it’s accepted by some smaller organizations such as the National Kennel Club (NKC). The NKC considers it to be part of its miscellaneous class, meaning it’s not recognized as either a purebred or mixed breed.
Their original breeder called them “Klee Kai” because that means “small dog” in Eskimo
One of the most common questions new owners ask is, “What should I call my tiny Alaskan Klee Kai?” The answer to this question depends on where you are and who you’re talking to. If you’re talking to someone who has been involved with the breed as a breeder or show dog it’s perfectly acceptable to use the name “Alaskan Klee Kai” or AKK.
But if you’re talking to an average Joe dog owner and they don’t know much about dogs, then they will probably just say, “Hey buddy! You look like a husky!” This isn’t really accurate because these two dogs aren’t really related at all (unless they share an ancient ancestor). So what makes them so similar? The answer lies in their shared ancestry: both breeds were bred by humans and have similar body types.
They’re also sometimes called mini huskies
- They’re also sometimes called mini huskies.
- But they’re not actually minis, and you should resist the temptation to call them that.
- The breed is relatively new, which might lead you to think it’s a “designer” dog, but this isn’t the case: It was bred for companionship and can’t pull sleds or compete in shows like other breeds of working dogs.
The Alaskan Klee Kai is recognized by two kennel clubs
The Alaskan Klee Kai is recognized by two kennel clubs: the American Kennel Club and the Canadian Kennel Club. It is not, however, recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
And what about that other big kennel club? Well, if you’re looking at an AKC pedigree, it won’t tell you anything about your pup’s breed of origin. In fact, there are many dogs out there who are officially registered as “American Kennel Club” but have no actual claim to being Alaskan Klee Kais—in this case it’s important to do your research and find a reputable breeder who has been breeding for health and temperament over appearance or popularity.
There are three different sizes of Alaskan Klee Kais
There are three different sizes of Alaskan Klee Kais, which are considered to be Miniature, Standard and Giant according to the AKC.
- Miniature: Dogs that measure 10 to 15 inches tall at the withers or shoulders.
- Standard: Dogs that measure 15-18 inches tall at the withers or shoulders.
- Giant: Dogs that measure over 18 inches tall at the withers or shoulders.
They love to play and run, but they’re also calm and quiet
Alaskan Klee Kai are friendly, affectionate, and playful. They have an independent streak and can be a little standoffish with strangers at first but will warm up quickly if their new person is patient. Klee Kai can be shy when meeting new people or in unfamiliar places.
Klee Kai are usually gentle-mannered dogs who enjoy being around people and other animals. They can also get along well with children who know how to treat animals kindly. However, some Alaskan Klee Kai may not tolerate rough play from toddlers, so it’s important to supervise all interactions between the two if you have young children in your home.
They shed a little year-round, and a lot twice a year
- What to expect:
Owning an Alaskan Klee Kai means never having to say, “I don’t have time for a dog.” You’re going to be spending plenty of time grooming them. Because they shed year-round, you’ll need to brush them daily if you want their coats looking shiny and beautiful. If you don’t mind a little fur everywhere, twice a year (in spring and fall) they’ll shed even more than usual and may require brushing every day—or at least every other day—for several weeks.
Because of their small size and high energy level, they’re fine living in an apartment as long as they can get outside regularly
Because of their small size and high energy level, they’re fine living in an apartment as long as they can get outside regularly. If you work from home or can be at your desk with them while they’re alone, then a condo or townhouse is also a possibility. But because they’re so active and need to run around every day, if you’ll only be at home during the workday then living in a home without fenced-in space may not be ideal for you.
Some people think they look like foxes or even wolves
You may have seen Alaskan Klee Kai and thought they look like foxes or even wolves. They do have some similarities in appearance to both of those animals, but they are actually a mix of Siberian husky, American Eskimo and Alaskan malamute breeds. The result is an adorable dog with a unique coat pattern and facial features that make it look like no other breed on earth!
Alaskan Klee Kais may look like huskies, but they’re actually their own breed of dog, and they have unique needs!
Alaskan Klee Kais are a unique breed of dog. They look like huskies, but they’re actually their own unique breed! Alaskan Klee Kais have very different needs from other breeds and are not related to huskies at all.
They are very intelligent and active dogs that need a lot of exercise, so it’s important to keep them busy with toys or games if you don’t plan on taking them for walks throughout the day. If you live in an apartment, make sure your yard is secure: these dogs can jump fences up to six feet tall!
Alaskan Klee Kais get along well with children and other pets when socialized early on in life.
Conclusion
So, what do you think? Are you ready to meet this wonderful breed of dog? The Alaskan Klee Kai can be a great pet for people who love dogs but don’t want one that’s too big. They’re energetic and fun, but also calm and quiet. And they look so much like wolves that everyone will want to come over just to see them!