Alaskan Klee Kai

I want to bring light to a wonderful dog breed called the Alaskan Klee Kai. You may see pictures of this breed on Pinterest – at least I have.

AlaskanKleeKaiKaia2
(dogbreedinfo.com)

Why you might ask? Well, I have not seen these little guys receive enough attention recently given the huge interest I have seen online for Pomskies. While there are distinct differences between these two breeds, I thought I would feature this established breed that might just fill that need in your life or be an even better option for your family.

kuva538
(source)

The Klee Kai is basically a smaller version of the Alaskan Husky, standing up to 17 inches high and weighing 10 to 25 pounds. It has an established breed standard, and is recognized by the American Rare Breed Association and the United Kennel Club. All coat colors are acceptable as long as the face mask is distinct with a lighter color on the throat, chest, and underside. The coat should be thick and silky, with feathering on the ears and feet. Ears should be erect. You can read the full breed standard here.

The breed was created around 1970 in the US, but is still rare. The name Klee Kai derives from the Eskimo words for little dog. This breed is meant to be a companion rather than a working dog like the larger dog it resembles, and is therefore intelligent and energetic. They can be kept in small spaces like apartments, but they do need regular exercise. Klee Kais are cleanly dogs, requiring regular brushing but only really needing bathing every so often. They are loving with their family, but can be cautious of strangers, which makes them a good watchdog. They require a firm owner willing to train them.

Here a photo for size comparison of full grown Klee Kai dogs with humans:
alaskan-klee-kai-alaskan-klee-kai-17409196-500-342
(United Alaskan Klee Kai Association)

Much smaller and more manageable for owners looking for a dog with that husky appeal but cannot have, or do not want, a large animal.

How much do these puppies cost? Well, they are a rare breed and costs do vary by breeder but they can go for around $2000 – $3000. Fair warning before getting too attached to wanting one of these beauties!

Here are images of Klee Kai dogs and puppies:
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(Top two puppy pictures and third adult picture all from Kika’s Klee Kai, Huskies in Miniature)

I just love the bright blue eyes that seem to be fairly common among this breed.

Kisa
(toyhusky.com)

7
(southpack kennels)

akk-female-makinzey-pup
(Kika’s Kennel)

So think carefully if you are interested in one of these puppies. They are still rare and do cost a lot. This can lead to backyard breeders or puppy mill kinds of situations offering you less costly puppies that come from questionable practices. So be careful, do your research, and if you still want one of these guys look into the resources below:

If you are interested in buying a puppy, here are places to start your search:
United Alaskan Klee Kai Association – for breed information and links to breeders: uakka.org
Alaskan Klee Kai Association of America – breed info and more links: akkaoa.com
Breeder – Rocky Mountain Klee Kai – toyhusky.com
Breeder – Kika’s Kennel: Alaskan Miniature Huskies – kikaskleekai.com or on facebook at Kika’s Klee Kai Huskies in Miniture
Breeder – Southpack Kennel – southpackkennels.com

Have a video of a Klee Kai puppy enjoying a lime:

Another of one learning to go down stairs:

–Cola and Fizz

Sources:
DogChannel.com
United Alaskan Klee Kai Association – uakka.org
Wikipedia – Alaskan Klee Kai
Buying an Alaskan Klee Kai – alaskankleekaiscam.com