Meet the Breed: Alaskan Klee Kai
Tuesday, November 2, 2021 17:02:42 PM America/Los_Angeles
Often mistaken for a Husky, this Alaskan cutie is as clever as they are playful. This makes them fun companions that have been known to engage enthusiastically in activities and even play a trick or two on their humans. The Klee Kai is wildly intelligent yet docile and loving. Continue reading to find out more about this spirited but loyal breed!
Photo by Momick
Description
If you think the Alaskan Klee Kai looks a lot like a mini-Husky, you’re not mistaken! The Klee Kai was bred as a companion-sized version after a breeder fell in love with a small Husky, who was then “outcrossed” with smaller, similar breeds such as the Alaskan Eskimo Dog and the Schipperke. The breed was developed with size and companionship in mind and has been around since the 1970s.
Small, medium, or large? That’s right -- the Alaskan Klee Kai comes in three different sizes: miniature, toy, and standard, ranging from 10-25 pounds depending on their size. They retain much of the similar colors and markings of the Husky and are typically black, grey, and white. Klee Kais boast thick coats due to their Alaskan heritage and are best for homes that can tolerate these dogs blowing their dense coats twice a year. Because of this, they will need to be groomed roughly two times a week.
Temperament
The Klee Kai is smart and can develop a stubborn streak -- not an uncommon trait amongst more intelligent breeds. Klee Kais can be “chatty” as they sometimes talk back and howl, much like their distant relative, the Husky. But don’t mistake this for sociability. Klee Kais are not aggressive, but they will definitely have a favorite human and can be suspicious of strangers unless introduced by the owner.
This breed is very tied to their owner and should not be left alone for long periods of time. Because of their cleverness and agility, they can easily become escape artists if they are unhappy or in search of their human. Klee Kais will be most successful in a home with a paw-rent who is attentive but well-versed in canine behavior, as this breed can be prone to separation anxiety and their owners must know how to toe the line between doting and overbearing.