
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Canis lupus familiaris
A spitz-type breed created in Alaska as a companion-sized Alaskan Husky, with a sharply defined facial mask and goggles; it comes in Toy, Miniature and Standard sizes.
The Alaskan Klee Kai is a northern spitz-type breed developed in Alaska by Linda Spurlin and her family as a companion-sized version of the Alaskan Husky. They selectively bred from the early 1970s to 1988, when the dogs were first made available to others. The UKC recognised the breed in 1997 and the AKC lists it in the Miscellaneous Class; the FCI and JKC do not recognise it. It looks every bit a northern dog, with a wedge-shaped head, mobile prick ears, a double coat and a furry tail curled over the back. Its most distinctive feature is the face: a dark nose bar, goggles around the eyes and lighter cheeks and throat in clear contrast, and a solid-coloured dog without a mask is disqualified. Colours are shades of black, grey or red. Curious and intelligent, it can be aloof with strangers and, despite its size, territorial and quick to sound the alarm. The AKC parent club recommends screening breeding stock for patellar luxation, autoimmune thyroiditis, heart murmur, eye disorders and Factor VII deficiency. In Japan it is sometimes called the 'mini husky' and is bred by a small number of breeders.
The Alaskan Klee Kai lives 13-16 years.
The Alaskan Klee Kai grows to Height up to 43cm (Toy up to 33cm, Miniature 33-38cm, Standard 38-43cm).
The UKC standard defines three sizes by height: Toy up to 33cm, Miniature 33-38cm and Standard 38-43cm, with no weight given.
Origin
United States (Alaska)
Lifespan
13-16 years
Size
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) are excluded from the CITES appendices and are not listed as Invasive Alien Species or Specified Animals under Japanese law, so no special permit is needed. Under Japan's Rabies Prevention Act, dogs must be registered with the local municipality and vaccinated against rabies once a year.
Sources: Species+ (Canis lupus; domesticated form excluded) / Ministry of the Environment, Japan: list of Invasive Alien Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
Height up to 43cm (Toy up to 33cm, Miniature 33-38cm, Standard 38-43cm)
Temperature
15〜26℃
Complete food for small to medium dogs
Curious, intelligent and devoted; reserved with strangers
Medium-high; daily walks plus play and mentally engaging activities
Double coat; weekly brushing, heavy undercoat shed twice a year
United States (Alaska)
Can be alarm-barky; early socialisation and gentle training suit it. Check parents' patella, thyroid and Factor VII screening
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The average lifespan of Alaskan Klee Kai is 13-16 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Alaskan Klee Kai typically reaches Height up to 43cm (Toy up to 33cm, Miniature 33-38cm, Standard 38-43cm) as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Alaskan Klee Kai feeds on: Complete food for small to medium dogs. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Alaskan Klee Kai varies significantly depending on lineage, coat color, sex, and age. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 28, 2026