About the Breed
The Alaskan Klee Kai is a relatively new and rare breed of dog known for its small to medium size and striking resemblance to Alaskan Husky sled dogs. The breed’s history can be traced back to the 1970s in the United States, specifically to Alaska, where it was developed by a woman named Linda S. Spurlin (pictured above) and her family.
Here is a brief overview of the history of the Alaskan Klee Kai:
- Origins: Linda S. Spurlin, a resident of Wasilla, Alaska, had a strong interest in developing a companion-sized version of a spitz type of performance dog, the Alaskan Husky. Linda’s goal was to create an apartment-sized husky as full-sized huskies in small homes and apartments were particularly challenging. An apartment-size husky just seemed like it would do well, and it did! In 1988 she made the breed available to others.
- Breeding Program: Linda Spurlin began her breeding program in the early 1970s through 1995. The Spurlin’s selected dogs of high standards and appearance. To ensure genetic diversity while setting type, the foundation mix included; Alaskan Huskies, one registered American Eskimo (Charlie), one Schipperke (Skipper), and one registered Siberian (Dollar). Eventually, a breed was created with a set type, the Alaskan Klee Kai. The rest is history!
- Name: The name “Klee Kai” is derived from an Athabascan term meaning “small dog.” This name reflects the breed’s diminutive size compared to the larger Huskies. Linda originally called the dogs “Klee Kai” but in 1995 the name was changed to “Alaskan Klee Kai” to denote the place of origin.
- Recognition: In 1997, the United Kennel Club (UKC) officially recognized the Alaskan Klee Kai breed. In addition, in 2019, it became recognized by the AKC/FSS. Many breeders are now working together in an effort to get the breed fully AKC recognized. To that end, registering litters with FSS and showing to win Awards of Merit are extremely beneficial.
- Varieties: In the UKC, the Alaskan Klee Kai come in three recognized varieties: Standard, Miniature, and Toy, based on their size. Height is measured at the withers. In the AKC/FSS which maintains its own standard, varieties are not recognized.
- Characteristics: Alaskan Klee Kai are known for their striking appearance, often resembling miniature Alaskan Husky Sled dogs. They have a double coat, erect triangular ears, and distinctive facial markings. They are energetic, intelligent, and make good family pets when properly trained and socialized. It is important here for breeders to remember that they are bred down to be miniature versions of sled dogs (moderate bone, with high agility) and not cart dogs (thick bone, with lack of agility).
- Clubs. Currently, there are two national clubs for the Alaskan Klee Kai breed. The UKC club is called the Alaskan Klee Kai Association of America the AKKAOA. AKC/FSS club is called the Alaskan Klee Kai Club of America the AKKCOA. I am a long-time member of both clubs.
- Competition. There are many venues to compete with Alaskan Klee Kai dogs. For example the UKC, AKC/FSS, ARBA, IABCA, and NADAC. We have competed in all of these venues.