Last Updated on August 25, 2022 by Cristina
You’ll agree that for a while now, small dogs have become quite a sensation among pet owners because sincerely, who could resist such cuteness as that of the Alaskan Klee Kai or Mini Husky?
Heads up, this is a Mini Husky vs Alaskan Klee Kai comparison piece. So don’t think we’re for one or the other. Both dog breeds are amazing canine companions. Although insanely identical, the Mini Husky and Alaskan Klee Kai are in fact, two different dog breeds with entirely different characteristics.
A popular misconception you may have heard is that the Alaskan Klee Kai breed is basically Alaskan or Siberian Husky puppies or even Mini Huskies, which were bred to have a smaller size for owners who lived in apartments or the city. But then, the Alaskan Klee Kai had been around a lot longer than the Mini Huskies. So, as we said, a misconception, but, very popular.
In this article, we will be looking at all there is to know about the Alaskan Klee Kai and Mini Huskies, taking a look at the history behind the Alaskan Klee Kai and the difference between the two breeds.
History And Breeding – Mini Husky Vs Alaskan Klee Kai
After meeting a miniature Husky in the 1970s called Curious, Linda Spurlin decided to create what you would refer to as little companion dogs. Spurlin took the 17-pound, gray and white female husky, which her brother-in-law had abandoned, and brought it with her to Alaska. With the little husky in her arms, Spurlin was motivated to recreate it.
Regardless of the opinion of many, Alaskan Klee Kai are a stand-alone breed and has been recognized by the American Rare Breed Association and the United Kennel Club. That means if you ever wished to create an Alaskan Klee Kai, you would only be able to do so by breeding to a UKC-registered Alaskan Klee Kai.
And so, in the quest to create a replica of Curious and using the best there was, Spurlin decided to turn to dogs with a special place in the history of Alaska. First is the Alaskan Husky, which she described as the ancestors of the Alaskan Klee Kai, considering they are related to an Indian dog breed used by the indigenous people of Alaska. Then there is the dose of Siberian Husky. This you probably figured out considering the striking face masks, eyes, and coat colors.
Alongside the American Eskimo Dog and Schipperke, and after 20 years of dedication, Spurlin could achieve all she had envisioned. Ever since there have been more than 15 generations of purebred Alaskan Klee Kai.
Unlike the Klee Kai, bred in the 70s, the Miniature Husky didn’t come around till the ’90s. And they appeared, thanks to the lady called Bree Normandin. The Miniature Husky is basically a smaller-sized Siberian Husky whose history can be easily traced to the Eastern Peninsula of Russia, where because of their powerful frames, they were mostly used as sled dogs.
As for breeding this cute-sized Mini Husky, Normandin aimed to create a companion-sized Siberian Husky with selective breeding and soon, with the use of Siberian huskies, was able to build her stock of Mini Huskies. Unfortunately, unlike the Klee Kai, these Miniature Huskies are not recognized as a breed by the Siberian Husky Club of America Inc. and the American Kennel Club. They only see it as just a name and nothing more.
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Size And Appearance – Mini Husky Vs Alaskan Klee Kai
The Alaskan Klee Kai is bred in three different sizes, namely, Standard (15 to 17 inches), Miniature (13 to 15 inches), and Toy (maximum of 13 inches). These dogs can be easily spotted by their trademark face masks.
They are also bred to possess many marking colors, from red to gray, then black, and a shade of light brown called liver. So, they are almost never all-white.
On the other hand, the Miniature Husky grows to a height of between 12 to 16 inches, while weighing between 15 to 35 pounds. Similar to the Alaskan Klee Kai, the Mini Husky comes with a display of different colors.
In most cases, they tend to be black and white. However, they also come in sage and white, red and white, gray and white, and all-white.
Personality Traits – Mini Husky Vs Alaskan Klee Kai
Seeing that the Alaskan Klee Kai were bred as companion dogs, they are known to be very loyal companions. The American Kennel Club classifies them as loyal, intelligent, and vigilant. However, they aren’t just dogs you could easily pull around because while they may be loyal, they are also very intelligent and stubborn.
So, it is important for you, the owner, to take up the responsibility as pack leader, because they tend to develop “small-dog syndrome,”, especially around bigger dogs. They are very introverted and reserved around strangers; so, encourage them to socialize.
The Alaskan Klee Kai also requires access to a small yard to easily run around both alone and with kids, especially if the Klee Kai is respectful and not aggressive. They love to hunt lizards and all sorts of small prey. However, they are perfect to live with other animals.
On the other hand, the Mini Husky sustains the same personality traits as most full-sized huskies. While they are very friendly with their family, the saying “stranger danger” doesn’t apply to them.
Just like the bigger huskies, these miniature huskies are quite gentle yet energetic as they love to work and play. And unlike the big guys, these minis can easily go along for outings and spend quality time with their families.
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Conclusion On Mini Husky Vs Alaskan Klee Kai
Just as Mini Husky Vs Alaskan Klee Kai tend to have a lot of differences, they both require individual attention and care. Also, keep in mind that because of their double coats, a weekly brushing down will do a lot to remove all undercoats and aid the growth of a new coat.
Be sure to remember that since they were bred to be companion dogs, they would be very needy and require a lot of attention. So, when going out for a cup of coffee or on family occasions, please don’t leave them behind.
Lastly, consistency and persistence go a long way in training them, especially when you are reminded that these dogs are only as smart as their owners. Got any experience with either or both breeds? Kindly share in the comments below.
FAQ’s
How smart are Alaskan Klee Kai?
Alaskan Klee Kai is a highly trainable, intelligent, and loyal dog. They are curious and often suspicious of strangers.
What is the difference between an Alaskan Klee Kai and a Miniature Husky?
The Alaskan Klee Kai is bred as Standard (15 to 17 inches), Miniature (13 to 15 inches), and Toy (maximum of 13 inches). On the other hand, the Miniature Husky grows to between 12 to 16 inches and weighs between 15 to 35 pounds.
What are miniature Huskies?
Miniatures are small-sized huskies, considered technically working dogs.
What are Klee Kai used for?
The Klee Kai are small dogs, majorly classified as companion dogs. They are excellent loyal companion dogs.
