Alaskan Klee Kai
Description
The Alaskan Klee Kai is a compact dog that looks like a miniature Husky, weighing between 10 and 15 pounds. It was developed in the 1970s to capture the striking appearance of Alaskan and Siberian Huskies but in a smaller package. Their medium double coat comes in black with white, grey with white, or red with white, each featuring symmetrical facial masks and body markings that give them a distinctive look. They’re reserved around strangers but deeply loyal to their families. These dogs are quite vocal and have a strong prey drive, so early socialization and training are essential. They thrive in homes where they get plenty of mental and physical stimulation, making them excellent watchdogs without being overly aggressive.
Grooming
The Alaskan Klee Kai’s medium double coat requires consistent care to keep it healthy and reduce shedding. Brush your dog three times a week, increasing frequency during heavy shedding seasons in spring and fall. Use an undercoat rake to remove loose fur and prevent matting beneath the topcoat. Bathing every 4 to 6 weeks helps maintain coat cleanliness, and blow-drying afterward not only speeds drying but also aids in de-shedding. Their symmetrical facial masks and white markings can show tear stains, so gently wipe their face regularly to keep it fresh. Key grooming points: - Brush 3× weekly; daily during heavy shedding - Use an undercoat rake to remove dead hair - Bathe every 4–6 weeks; blow-dry for best results - Clean facial markings to prevent staining Pro tip: Schedule a professional de-shedding treatment every 4 to 6 weeks during peak shedding to keep your Klee Kai comfortable and your home cleaner.
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
Alaskan Klee Kais need about 55 minutes of exercise daily, ideally in one solid session. They enjoy brisk walks that challenge their endurance and allow them to explore scents and surroundings. Because they can be vocal and alert, a well-structured walk also helps burn off nervous energy and reduces excessive barking at home. Incorporate some off-leash time in a secure area if possible, as they have a strong prey drive and love to chase. Example routine: - 10-minute warm-up walk around the block - 35-minute brisk walk with varied pace and direction - 10-minute cool-down sniff and social time at the park
Boarding
When boarding an Alaskan Klee Kai, provide a crate sized between 30 and 36 inches to ensure comfort without excess space. These dogs benefit from a predictable routine and slow introductions to staff to reduce stress. They enjoy two active play sessions daily combined with scent or brain games to keep their sharp minds engaged. Avoid small-animal toys due to their prey drive, and ensure fencing is secure to prevent escapes. Staff should be aware of their vocal nature and provide gentle reassurance during initial acclimation. Enrichment activities tailored to their intelligence and energy help prevent boredom and promote well-being during their stay.