A canine breed with roots in the North is the Alaskan Klee Kai. These medium-sized, clever, energetic, and gorgeous canines are well-known for looking similar to Alaskan Huskies.
These devoted animals spend a lot of time interacting with their family and need very little exercise to be active and energized. The profile below provides more information about Alaskan Klee Kai’s background, character, and physical characteristics.
Origin of Alaskan Klee Kai
In the language of the Eskimos, the Alaskan Klee kai, which is a relatively recent breed, means “little dogs.” This breed of dog is said to have ancient origins and is descended from many native canines that formerly roamed Alaska thousands of years ago.
These dogs were not just household pets because of Alaska’s severe weather, but they also became crucial to many native communities. These dogs were experts in pulling sleds, hunting, tracking, and hiking. They were also effective at giving adversaries and wild animals early warnings.
If you look closely, you can see that Alaskan Klee Kai emerged in the 1970s. In the 1980s, Linda Spurlin and her family created this breed from huskies after making several unsuccessful attempts to create a high-standard, emotionally stable, and physically robust canine breed.
In 1988, the Alaskan Klee Kai was made accessible to the public. The Spurlin family originally called these dogs Klee Kai, but in 1995 they were renamed Alaskan Klee Kai, and the United Kennel Club recognized the breed as a distinct entity in 1997.
Physical Characteristics of Alaskan Klee Kai
Klee Kais from Alaska typically come in three sizes. They might be as little as a toy or as large as a standard and miniature. The sizes do not differ significantly, though.
Toy Alaskan Klee Kais are the smallest size and stand around 13 inches tall. On the other hand, miniatures range in size from 13 to 15 inches. In the Kais, the tallest or average size ranges from 15 to 17 inches. Depending on the size, they range in weight from 5 to 22 pounds.
Alaskan Klee Kai is recognized for having a unique “facial mask.” They have light and black fur that resembles an Alaskan husky. Its head is proportional to the size of its body, wedge-shaped, and wrinkle-free.
They have medium-sized, oval-shaped eyes that are typically brown in hue. A Klee Kai from Alaska has little, triangular ears. Their shoulders are somewhat hunched back, and their chest is wide.
Coat and Color
The Alaskan Klee Kai has three primary coat colors, as specified by breed standards. Black and white, red and white, or grey and white are a few examples. Additionally, there are apparently Alaskan Klees that are all white.
The body of this canine breed is covered in a regular or full coat of fur, including the face and tail. However, both have double coats that consist of a larger outer coat and a shorter undercoat. Dogs with these coats can withstand severe weather.
Temperament of Alaskan Klee Kai
In contrast to many other dog breeds, Alaskan Klee Kai are very clever, active, and loving with their people. They need constant training to become comfortable among new people because they are not particularly sociable and pleasant to strangers.
Alaskan Klee Kai is excellent watchdog because they are highly suspicious and watchful of strangers.
Alaskans are the most intelligent breed, and they quickly catch up on orders. They naturally want to please and follow their masters. These dogs also have a strong need to eat, and they like learning agility skills, which helps them use up their energy during the day.
Alaskan Klee Kais can spend the remainder of the day lounging on a couch after engaging in some healthy play or taking a long stroll. These frenetic beings, though, can become bored and destructive if you ignore their desire for activity.
Additionally, be cautious while accompanying Alaskans on walks because of their extremely strong prey drive, which makes them run away from any wild creatures they observe.
It’s crucial to bear in mind that an Alaskan Klee Kai needs care from its family when obtaining one. Additionally, these dogs can become quite noisy if sufficient care is not given to them. These delicate animals will nonetheless yelp and whimper to communicate their unhappiness even if they are not as verbose as their Husky counterparts.
Health of Alaskan Klee Kai
Although the AKK is generally regarded as a healthy breed, there are several issues to watch out for, and respectable AKK breeders check their dogs for many hereditary illnesses. Ask the breeder what issues they check the parent dogs for, and ask to see the corresponding certification, for the best chance of purchasing a healthy pup.
Thyroid
An autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system assaults the thyroid gland and causes inflammation is more likely to occur in people with AKK. The cycle of inflammation and scar tissue formation eventually results in lower thyroid hormone levels.
Hypothyroidism is the medical term for this underactive thyroid. Lack of energy, weight gain, and a poor coat are symptoms.
Sadly, this autoimmune-mediated variant of hypothyroidism frequently affects younger animals, whereas conventional hypothyroidism is frequently associated with middle- or old age. Once the symptoms are identified and a diagnosis is made, the only course of therapy is to take a thyroid supplement for the rest of one’s life.
Liver Shunts
When a temporary blood artery existing in the foetus remains open after birth, it results in a liver shunt, also known as a portosystemic shunt or PSS. The circulation is shunted around the liver by this blood artery.
As a result, the liver is prevented from detoxifying the blood, which causes the pup to exhibit toxic neurological symptoms including seizures, stupor, or coma as well as vomiting and diarrhea. Liver shunts are fatal if left untreated. Fortunately, there are options, including corrective surgery, but they come with costs and risks.
Factor VII Deficiency
A crucial blood clotting factor is factor VII. After small bumps or cuts, uncontrollable bleeding results from a factor VII deficiency. Given that this gene is recessive, a dog can carry the coding for Factor VII deficiency without developing the condition. Therefore, before breeding from the parent canines, all ethical breeders meticulously inspect them.
Heart Disease
Breeds prone to congenital cardiac murmurs include AKKs. Even while not all heart murmurs eventually result in heart disease and failure, it is nevertheless essential to test and evaluate adult dogs before breeding.
Luxating Patella
The AKK is associated with weak or unsteady kneecaps, like many tiny breeds. The dog may skip steps when walking as a result of the back leg locking out of place. Serious instances necessitate reconstructive knee surgery, whereas mild ones may only require periodic pain medication and rest.
Cryptorchidism
This disorder, which refers to a retained testicle, affects male dogs. One (or both) testicles are kept against the body wall or within the abdomen rather than having two testicles that both descend into the scrotum.
Testicular torsion and testicular cancer are two conditions associated with retained testicles. Therefore, it is advised that afflicted puppies be neutered. Castration not only resolves the health issue but also stops the dog from reproducing and transferring the cryptorchidism gene.
Alaskan Klee kai price in India
Puppies of the Alaskan Klee Kai may currently be purchased in India for between 30,000 and 90,000 rupees. Breeders put their forebears through a number of tests in an effort to further reduce their size, which led to the development of three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. The price of an Alaskan Klee Kai in India may vary depending on the size and color of the breed, its health, and the reputation of the breeder.
All Expenses of Alaskan Klee Kai
Food cost
Due to their high levels of curiosity and energy, Alaskan Klee Kais must have dietary needs that can match the amount of calories they burn each day. Maintaining a weight between 10 and 15 pounds is the aim.
Given that they are not known to be picky eaters, you may be able to decide what brand and kind of dog food—human, wet, dry, or a combination of all three—you wish to feed your dogs. You can currently get a bag of dry dog food from a respectable manufacturer for ₹3,000, which will last them for half a month.
Make sure to check the ingredients list before choosing a brand to ensure that the first three or four items are all meat. Otherwise, it is best to stay away from its products.
Grooming cost
Alaskan Klee Kai dogs are capable of taking care of themselves, unlike other breeds. Less money will be spent on shampoo and other dog cleaning supplies as a result. The bad news is that your house can suffer when they shed, which happens at least twice a year.
Have a lint brush nearby to collect all the stray hairs from your pet to prevent damage from excessive fur on the floor and your furnishings. It only costs ₹600 to ₹ 8,000 and can be used to get rid of dog hair as well as glitter and glass shards that were accidentally brought in.
Medical care cost
The majority of the medical issues that Alaskan Klee Kais face are ones that are typical of small-breed dogs.
Patellar luxation, a condition where the kneecap or patella slides away from its original place on the dent on top of the thigh bone or femur, is an illustration of this. This condition is marked by abrupt lameness, skipping steps, and the infrequent elevating of the back legs for a brief period of time to alleviate discomfort.
Veterinarians frequently advise undergoing surgery, particularly medial patellar luxation stabilization, which can run between ₹ 70,000 and ₹80,000. Due to professional expenses, overnight accommodations, pre- and post-operative exam costs, and the severity of the ailment, prices may vary.
Have your pet receive regular checks from a veterinarian to avoid patellar luxation and other related issues. Budget around ₹4,000 for each appointment.
As was already established, the majority of AKK breeders factor vaccination costs and other healthcare expenses into the pup’s selling price. Following up on these vaccinations is now your responsibility in order to protect your AKK against well-known canine illnesses like rabies and distemper.
Prepare between ₹1,500 and ₹2,500 per shot for these. However, some clinics provide vaccination shot packages at a lower cost than when you buy each one separately.
Other expenses
As was already said, Alaskan Klee Kais are lively, vivacious dogs. Bring them for daily walks so they may get rid of their surplus energy. The only risk you could have while bringing AKKs about your neighborhood is that they may attack small animals along the road, such as rabbits and squirrels.
To prevent this, invest in a durable harness and leash that will enable you to tug your dog off the path. Depending on the brand, harnesses produced by reputable manufacturers can range in price from ₹750 to ₹2,000.
Purchasing toys is another approach to prevent boredom and keep your Alaskan Klee Kai entertained while you’re away. These treats serve more purposes than mere amusement. According to studies, toys can also aid in mental stimulation and tooth abrasion (for chew toys).
They also don’t cost a lot. A good toy is currently available for ₹800 or less. But be prepared to spend up to ₹3,000 per one if you prefer the more sophisticated and interactive ones.
Frequently Asked Question
Are Alaskan Klee kai rare?
The Alaskan Klee kai received recognition from the United Kennel Club in 1997. The Alaskan klee kai is a rare breed with just 700 dogs, even with this registration.
What is Alaskan Klee kai mixed with?
In order to produce a breed that resembles the Siberian Husky but is smaller and intended for companionship, breeders carefully bred Siberian and Alaskan Huskies with the American Eskimo, Spitz, and Schipperke.
Are Alaskan Klee kai fluffy?
All weigh between 5 and 22 pounds and are under 17 inches tall. This breed, like the Alaskan Husky, has a thick, fluffy coat, a curling tail, pricked ears, and stunning facial coloration.
Do Alaskan Klee kai like to cuddle?
These adorable and fluffy dogs adore snuggling up to their owners on the couch or in bed. Because they form close bonds with their owners and other family members, if they are left alone at home for an extended amount of time, they are more likely to experience separation anxiety.
Can Alaskan Klee kai live in hot weather?
Absolutely! Simply make sure they have enough food and water, and on very uncomfortable days, keep them inside. A little plastic pool is great for people who want to play in the water.
Is alaskan klee kai purebred?
Dogs of the Alaskan Klee Kai purebreed.
More than 15 generations of Klee Kai have been registered with UKC. AKK is still an uncommon breed of dog but have become more popular over the past ten or so years. They were developed in the 1970s as companion dogs.
Does Alaskan Klee kai shed?
A mask, symmetrical patterns, and the distinctive tail that folds over the back are all characteristics of the Klee kai. The Klee kai sheds, or “blows coat,” twice a year, just like its bigger counterparts.
Are alaskan klee kai hypoallergenic?
A hypoallergenic breed is not the Alaskan Klee Kai. He constantly loses his thick double coat. He sheds significantly twice a year and is a seasonal shedder.
How often should owners brush their Alaskan Klee kai?
It is advised to brush your Klee Kai around once a week to maintain the health of their coats and remove any obvious dirt or matting. You should perform more thorough grooming when they “blow their coats,” or lose all of their undercoats, twice a year.
Can Alaskan Klee kai be left alone?
For owners who desire a tiny, lively dog that doesn’t need a big yard and is satisfied with walks and fetches games, Klee Kais are perfect. Klee kai doesn’t do well when left alone for extended periods of time. Anyone who can’t stand canine shedding and hair should think about a different breed.
Why is Alaskan Klee Kais expensive?
As with any dog breed, age, location, vet records, coat color, and other factors might affect how much a dog costs. The Klee Kai is a rare breed, which explains why it costs so much.
Are Alaskan Klee Kais good family dogs?
Small and affectionate, the Alaskan Klee Kai is a devoted and loving family companion. It is recommended to socialize this breed early since it could be wary of strangers and young children. The Klee Kai is an excellent watchdog since it is constantly on guard.
Do Alaskan Klee kai smell?
They are really tidy. Most people spend hours each day grooming themselves because they dislike having damp feet. Like many other northern breeds, Alaskan Klee Kai doesn’t have the normal “dog breath” or “dog odor.” Most Klee Kai won’t frequently need to take a bath. They don’t require grooming because they are rather effective.
Is Alaskan Klee Kais destructive?
On the negative side, packing up your Alaskan Klee Kai might be challenging. In addition to destructive chewing and defecting, these stressed dogs may also engage in frequent barking, whimpering, or whining.
What do alaskan klee kais eat?
However, Alaskan Klee Kais are prone to gaining weight, therefore for optimal health and performance, their food should include physiologically adequate proteins, good fats, pulverized bones, and vegetables, which are rich in vital vitamins and minerals.
How much exercise does an Alaskan Klee kai need?
They often need an additional half-hour of activity each day in addition to their playtime. The Klee Kais of Alaska are renowned for their escape skills and intelligence. Due to their resemblance to the tiny Alaskan Husky, Klee Kais are well-liked.
Is Alaskan Klee kai aggressive?
Although the Alaskan Klee Kai is not an aggressive dog breed, they may bite or growl at you if they are mistreated. They naturally have a tendency to be distant or reserved with strangers, but they may be affectionate with an owner who keeps them active and interested via regular training.
Is Alaskan Klee kai hard to train?
Because they are such sharp small canines, Alaskan Klee Kai may be quite obstinate. They are incredibly easy to teach since they have a high IQ. Unfortunately, if your dog is not properly educated from a young age, unpleasant habits may develop and stubbornness may begin to set in.
Are Alaskan Klee kai good for first-time owners?
It would be challenging for a novice pet parent to take on the responsibility of raising an Alaskan Klee Kai. However, for an adopter who maintains a schedule of training and exercise, this breed is kind, devoted, and eager to express affection to loved ones.
Are Alaskan Klee kai high maintenance?
When it comes to grooming, they require little upkeep. To lessen shedding throughout the house, just make sure to brush them frequently. For anybody considering purchasing an Alaskan Klee Kai, Kira’s mother offered a helpful vacuum.
Are Alaskan Klee kai good apartment dogs?
Alaskan Klee Kai might be the ideal dog for apartment dwellers provided you’re giving a safe, secure environment for your dog to learn, play, and grow. Be ready, since they do take some time and effort.
Is Alaskan Klee kai good with cats?
Klee kai requires constant communication with their owners. They do nicely with other dogs. If their owner wants to raise one, they should do it amongst cats because they are hunters. The owner should use caution while keeping rodents, birds, or reptiles as pets since the husky’s prey drive is high.
Are Alaskan Klee kai smart?
The Alaskan Klee kai is a smart, energetic dog. They are not “hyper,” though. They are exceptionally trainable and make superb watchdogs, unlike other husky breeds. They are wary of strangers, unlike their cousins. They are usually located by their owner’s side and need their attention.
Does Alaskan Klee kai have health problems?
Although the Alaskan Klee Kai is mostly free of genetic disorders, several illnesses are associated with this breed, including thyroid disorders, juvenile cataracts, liver disease, factor VII deficiency, pyometra, patellar luxation, and cryptorchidism.
Are Alaskan Klee kai huskies?
The dog was an Alaskan Klee Kai, a smaller-sized variation of the popular working and racing breed Alaskan Husky. The Eskimo word for “small dog” is “Klee Kai.”
When does Alaskan Klee kai stop growing?
Although Klee Kai frequently continues to develop their bone structure until about age two, they appear to attain adult height by the time they are a year old.
Alaskan Klee kai vs husky size
Siberian Huskies range in height from 20 to 24 inches, whereas Alaskan Klee Kais are typically 10 to 13 inches tall. Additionally, Siberian Huskies only come in one size, but Alaskan Klee Kais come in three.
Alaskan klee kai or pomsky
Although Alaskan Klee Kai and Pomskies may appear to be the same breed, they are actually two separate breeds of dogs. The United Kennel Club recognizes the Alaskan Klee Kai as a purebred canine. On the other side, a Pomsky is a cross between a Pomeranian and a Siberian Husky.
Can Alaskan Klee kai survive in India?
They can indeed survive in India. However, if you reside in a hotter area of India, it is crucial to supply them with water, a shelter, and to keep them inside during the day. Take them outside just when it is cool outside, like early in the morning or after sunset.
Does Alaskan Klee kai get cold?
Compared to the Alaskan husky, the paw pads of an Alaskan Klee Kai are slimmer. It may be important to get paw boots for your dog so that they can move about comfortably in the winter since the cold can very rapidly overwhelm them.
is Alaskan Klee kai good with babies/ children?
They can get along well with kids if socialized early enough, however, they could be wary or reluctant. Some Klee Kais won’t put up with a young child or toddler’s typical shenanigans. Their persistent pulling, pinching, and prodding may frighten the dog, who could then bite the little child.
Conclusion
Having a dog as a pet is a lot of fun, despite the cost of ownership. Since pets make wonderful companions, one should constantly be able to maintain their health. Finally, pet owners should never be caught without a method to support their animals.
I sincerely hope you find the information in this post to be of the highest importance since it should be fairly beneficial to you in maintaining your dog’s health.
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