Seemingly a smaller version of the Siberian Husky. Even the name “Klee Kai” comes from an Inuit term meaning “small dog.” But also though they may look like the Husky, there are many fundamental differences; Especially in temperament. Although they share the same energy as the Huskies and require a lot of exercises, they are still suited to the life of a companion.
They can be quite shy around strangers but completely the opposite with family. That is why it is essential to train the Klee Kai as puppies to be sweet, loyal and happy companions.
Originally bred as companions, they also happen to be excellent watchdogs. They really try to be pleasing to their families. This makes them easy to train. However, they are still a new breed and not yet given recognition by groups like the American Kennel Club. They are also not favored by many breeders around the world. Because of this they still are relatively a rare breed.
Klee Kai highlights
- The breed got their name from the Inuit which means “small dog.” It is indeed an appropriate term given they are small in stature.
- They arrived in the 1970s and the 1980s. There intended purpose was providing companionship to families and not as sled dogs.
- The breed has been given recognition from the American Rare Breed Association as well as the United Kennel Club.
- Although there are existing Alaskan Klee Kai dogs that are white, the creation of this color is not present in the standard breed.
- They are a perfect pet choice for those individuals who don’t like grooming their dog. Even though they shed, they do not require very much grooming.
- Because the breed is has a high drive for prey, they don't mix well with small pets. Or families may be missing a hamster, bird, cat, rabbit, etc.
History
Hailing from Alaska's Wasilla area, the breed was created by Linda Spurlin with help from her family. Spurlin had a goal of being able to raise the dog who would provide companionship. She was able to envision a different kind of Siberian Husky. Unlike other breeders, Spurlin continued raising Siberian Huskies as well as Alaskan Huskies. They cross breed the Alaskan Eskimo and the Schipperke. This mating resulted in smaller puppies.
Spurlin retired from producing Alaska Klee Kais after unveiling them for the world to see. But other breeders took on the job. Even still, the breed remains few in numbers and are still rare.