Family: Spitz
Breed Group:
Origin: United States - Alaska
Date of Origin: 1980s - A new breed
Originally used for: Companion
Used today: Companion
Other Name(s): Klee Kai
History of the Breed: Developed in Alaska by Linda Spurlin and her family, to be a companion-sized version of the Alaskan Husky.
From the early 70's through 1988, the Spurlins carefully selected dogs who met their high standards for appearance and soundness. In 1988,
they made the Alaskan Klee Kai available to others. Mrs. Spurlin originally called her new breed the "Klee Kai" but in 1995, it was changed
to "Alaskan Klee Kai." The Alaskan Klee Kai is still extremely rare.
General Appearance: A small version of the Alaskan Husky with a wedge-shaped head featuring a striking masked face, prick ears,
and a double coat. The length of back is just slightly longer than the height. The tail is well-furred and curls over the back or to
either side when the dog is alert or moving. The appearance of the Alaskan Klee Kai reflects the breed's northern heritage.
Height & Weight:
Height 15-17 Inches
Weight 10-25 Pounds
Size is determined by the specific size i.e. Toy, Miniature,
or Standard breed.
Coat: The coat is double and of sufficient length and has the same appearance of the Alaskan Husky.
Color: All coat colors acceptable provided that the facial mask is distinct and clearly visible and there is a contrasting lighter
color on the dog's throat, chest, breeches, feet, legs and underside. The overall appearance is one of symmetry.
Grooming needs: Medium
Temperament of Breed: Friendly and loyal to family members, cautious with strangers.
Friendly with children: Yes
Friendly with other dogs: Yes
Suitability as a watchdog: No
Exercise Level: Medium
Health Issues with the Breed:
Major: Factor VII deficiency, kidney disease
Minor:
Life Expectancy: 12-15 Years
2006 AKC Ranking: Not Ranked
First Registered by the AKC: Not Registered
Registries: UKC, CKC, NKC, APRI, ACR
ACR -American Canine Registry
APRI -American Pet Registry Inc.
CKC -Canadian Kennel Club
NKC -National Kennel Club
UKC -United Kennel Club
Breed Organizations & Associations:
Alaskan Klee Kai Association of America, Inc. (AKKAOA)
United Alaskan Klee Kai Association (UAKKA)