The genetic selections that led to the development of what we know today as dog breeds are always followed by needs, whether natural adaptation to life or needs dictated by man.
L’Alaskan klee kai is no exception: descendant of the most famous sled dogs, it is thought of as a companion dog and not as a working dog, therefore it is very similar to a Siberian Husky, but smaller and more affectionate! Here’s everything there is to know about this brand new breed.
Alaskan Klee kai dog
Alaskan klee kai was originally only called “klee kai”, which in the dialect Inuit (of indigenous peoples widespread in Alaska, Siberia and Greenland) simply means “small dog”, because it resembles a Siberian Husky, but mini.
This breed is NOT recognized by the Italian Canine Federation – FCI, but in 1997 it was officially registered with the United Kennel Clubwhich makes the Alaskan Klee kai a full-fledged American breed.
Today it is very rare to meet a specimen of this breed, as the number of specimens is very low and the breed is not recognized in our country.
The origins of the Alaskan Klee Kai
Alaskan Klee Kai derives from a rather recent genetic selection. Its origins date back to the 70s, in Alaska, precisely in Wasilla. Here, for over 20 years, North America’s most important competition was held sledge dogs: the Iditarod Trail Shed Dog Race.
Sled dogs have in fact a great cultural importance in these areas: these animals have worked alongside man for centuries, helping him to transport logs, sleds, loads, in exchange for shelter, some food and affection.
In addition, these loyal dogs are also excellent guardians of the house.
The breeds that have always been appreciated for this sport have certainly been the Siberian Husky and the Alaskan Malamute.
Also very popular in America, but less known in our area, are the Alaskan Husky, which do not properly identify a breed but a type of dog, which perfectly embodies the sled dog. These are specimens:
- agile,
- strong,
- resistant,
- fast.
The mixture of the genes of all these breeds has led over the decades to the selection of the Alaskan klee kai by Linda Spurlin.
The first breed selections
Linda S. Spurlin, a native of the place, knew these dogs and their loving disposition well, but she wanted to create a new breed descended from the Siberian Husky that was more suitable as a pet rather than a working animaltherefore also of reduced dimensions.
She was inspired by a chance encounter with a smaller than normal breed.
Selections without genetic defects
Spurlin, along with her family, never selected dogs with dwarfism to reduce their body size, as some breeders still do today.
The small size was obtained by the breeder by crossing generations of:
Infacti gli Alaskan Klee kai they are generally healthy and free from particular genetic defects.
Appearance
These mini-Huskies exist in three sizes:
In the standard size adults do not exceed 42 cm in height at the withers and come to weigh between 7-10 kg.
- Theirs body it is proportionate, slender, agile and fast but at the same time strong and resistant.
- I somatic traits they are typical of the sled dog: elongated muzzle, erect ears, deep and intelligent eyes, often brown in color, or bicolor (when heterochromia is present).
- Il furthick and soft, it does not require special care other than regular brushing.
Behavior
Alaskan Klee Kai are dogs selected for companionship, therefore they are lovable and affectionate with family, power and intelligent.
They are loyal to their owners and try to keep an eye on him at all times.
Strangers and children
They can be wary of strangersnot always suitable for children who are too young: although they love to be the center of attention, they do not always enjoy the company of baby animals.
Cohabitation with other animals
Due to their pack nature, they are suitable for coexistence with other dogs, but the same cannot always be said of cats: if not accustomed, they will tend to hunt them as puppies.
Problems related to coexistence with his peers and others can be avoided by preventing and discouraging bad habits from an early age.
Training
These dogs are extremely intelligent, but also a lot stubborn, and when they learn something it’s hard to get it out of their minds.
Given the needs of these dogs, before adopting one it is advisable to have some experience in training or alternatively follow a dog-friendly educational path, especially in the early stages of the dog’s growth.
Needs of the Klee Kai
Despite its small size and super-tender air, the klee kai still retains some working dog roots. Therefore this dog is not suitable for being closed in the house and not even for elderly people as they have higher demands in terms of physical activity than other breeds for apartments.
Physical exercise is necessary for the well-being of the dog which, if not adequately stimulated, can get nervous, become anxious e restless, going as far as emitting vocalizations of lamentation and barking insistently. Activities perfect for Alaskan klee kai are:
In the latter case, be careful not to leave the dog too long in the sun or in very hot places, which this breed does not tolerate: being native to Alaska, it is instead very resistant to temperatures and harsh winters.
Price and breeding
There are no Alaskan Klee Kai kennels in Italy, so the price can vary a lot depending on the availability of the litter and the reputation of the kennel, which must necessarily be foreign not being a recognized breed in our country.
If you really don’t want to give up and have decided to adopt these wonderful dogs, here in Italy you can turn to amateur breeding: the only Alaskan klee kai currently in our country is the Little Dreams of Pistoia!