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  Meet the
Alaskan
Klee Kai
The Alaskan
Husky
In Miniature
Title Photos By Gail Compton
The Alaskan Klee Kai (AKK) was 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 that met their high standards for appearance and
soundness. The first AKK to be sold outside of Alaska was in 1988. The AKK
was recognized by the American Rare Breed Association (ARBA) in 1995 and
by the United Kennel Club (UKC) on January 1, 1997.
Nicknamed the Alaskan Husky in
Miniature, the AKK is a smaller version of its northern ancestors weighing
an average of ten to fifteen pounds. Despite its husky ancestry, this
newly developed breed is intended to pull heartstrings instead of sleds.
Their smaller size and loyal and somewhat reserved personality make them a
unique companion for those seeking a smaller northern breed.
The most
distinctive characteristic of the AKK is the striking facial mask that
must be clearly visible due to contrasting colors.
Photo
by Terry Wright
The AKK has prick
ears and a well-furred tail that curls over the back or to either side
when the dog is alert or moving. They can be black and white, or shades of
gray and white, or red and white. They can be either short-haired or
long-haired. Their eyes can be both blue, both brown, one of each or
parti-colored.
The
AKK comes in three varieties. The Toy measures up to 13 inches from the
withers to the ground. The Miniature is over 13 inches and up to 15
inches, and the  Standard
is over 15 inches but not more than 17-1/2 inches. His weight is
proportionate to his height.
The
overall appearance of the AKK reflects the breed’s northern heritage. He
is very curious, active, quick and agile. He is loyal and affectionate
with family members, but can be reserved and cautious with strangers and
in unfamiliar situations. Obedience training is highly recommended for
socialization.
Miniature, Toy & Standard
Photo by Brenda Solomon
 The
AKK has a high energy level and, due to its heavy double coat, sheds
continuously and “blows” coat twice a year. Therefore an AKK may not
be an ideal choice for everyone. However, if in an appropriate home, the
AKK can be a wonderful and loving companion. Because of their size, these
dogs can live in an apartment, but a home with at least a small,
well-fenced yard is recommended. They should be exercised regularly,
however, they are not as dependent on exercise as their larger relatives.
Short-Hair
& Long Hair
Photo by Lenor Knapp
Because
of the small litters (usually 2-3 puppies) and the increasing popularity
of the AKK, most likely you will be put on a waiting list for a puppy. It
is advisable to list with several breeders. It might be a long wait of a
year or more, but it is worth the wait! AKK are smart, quick to learn,
playful, and love to please their owners and will bring you great joy and
happiness!
Always
remember that a dog should be a lifelong responsibility. Be a responsible
pet owner: research the breed and breeder you are interested in before
purchasing, provide the best care possible for your pet, spay or neuter,
and make provisions in your will for your pet’s care when you are gone.
Siberian
Husky & AKK.
Photo by Kim Sandoval.
Image
created by Linda S. Spurlin.
The
Legend
by Linda S. Spurlin
Somewhere
within the Great Land called Alaska, between the massive mountains, the
vast oceans, the silent tundra, and the endless sheets of ice, the Glacier
Witch looked down and smiled at the bright eyed, tiny form in front of
her. After rescuing it from the icy waters and drying it before the fire,
it appeared somewhat smaller than before, and she was pleased. For the
little husky’s smaller size would make it an ideal companion. She
searched the various native dialects, and deriving the name from the
Eskimo words for “little dog,” she christened the masked creature “Klee
Kai.”
Photo
by Eileen Gregory
AKK
Internet Groups on Yahoo:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/alaskankleekaiadvocates
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/alaskankleekaidogclub
http://www.mykleekai.com/forums/
Alaskan
Klee Kai Association of America, Inc.
(AKKAOA)
http://www.akkaoa.org
This
publication is meant to tell you a little bit about the wonderful Alaskan
Klee Kai.
Please contact the above website
Or conduct a search of the web using the keyword “Alaskan Klee Kai”
for more information
and for breeders, or contact the person
below who gave you this pamphlet.
This
pamphlet was written by Lenor Knapp Lynas who is owned by two beautiful
AKK, Charmn and Kyli.
Comments,
questions, or to request a printed brochure contact Lenor at
tennlen@chartertn.net
4th
Ed 10/12/04 (tw) – 2004 Copyrigt |
