Mike Clinton
Introduction: The Alaskan Klee Kai breed
The Alaskan Klee Kai is a relatively new and rare breed of dog that was developed in Alaska in the 1970s. The breed was created by Linda Spurlin, who wanted to breed a small version of the Alaskan Husky. The Alaskan Klee Kai is a spitz-type dog that was developed by crossing the Alaskan Husky, the American Eskimo Dog, and the Schipperke.
The Alaskan Klee Kai is a highly intelligent and energetic breed that is known for its loyalty and affection towards its owners. They are often compared to the Siberian Husky, but the Alaskan Klee Kai is much smaller in size and has a more reserved personality. Alaskan Klee Kais are small dogs that come in three different sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. They are highly adaptable and can be kept in smaller homes, making them a popular choice for city-dwellers.
Characteristics of the Alaskan Klee Kai
Alaskan Klee Kais have a striking appearance, with their pointy ears, furry tails, and piercing eyes. They have a double coat that is soft and fluffy on the inside and dense and protective on the outside. Alaskan Klee Kais are available in a variety of colors, including black and white, grey and white, and red and white.
The Alaskan Klee Kai is a highly active breed that requires regular exercise and mental stimulation. They are known to be escape artists and require a secure and well-fenced yard to prevent them from running away. They are also known to be vocal and will bark to alert their owners of any potential danger.
The temperament of Alaskan Klee Kais
Alaskan Klee Kais are known for their friendly and playful nature. They are highly affectionate towards their owners and are loyal and protective of their family. They have a strong prey drive and may chase smaller pets, so it is important to socialize them early on and train them to coexist with other animals.
While Alaskan Klee Kais are generally friendly with strangers, they can be wary of unfamiliar people and may bark to alert their owners of any potential danger. They are not aggressive dogs and are not suitable for use as guard dogs in the traditional sense.
What makes a good guard dog?
A good guard dog is a breed that is naturally protective of its owner and property. They should have a strong prey drive and be able to recognize and respond to potential threats. A good guard dog should also be trainable and willing to follow commands.
Guard dogs are typically used to protect homes or businesses and should be able to distinguish between friend and foe. They should be confident and have a strong presence that can deter potential intruders.
Can Alaskan Klee Kais be trained as guard dogs?
While Alaskan Klee Kais are naturally protective of their owners, they are not suitable for use as traditional guard dogs. They are not aggressive dogs and are more likely to bark and alert their owners to potential danger rather than attack.
However, Alaskan Klee Kais can be trained to be watchdogs and can be taught to recognize and alert their owners to potential threats. They can also be trained to follow commands and respond to specific cues.
Potential drawbacks of using Alaskan Klee Kais as guard dogs
The main drawback of using Alaskan Klee Kais as guard dogs is their size. They are small dogs that are not intimidating to potential intruders and may not be able to physically defend their owners or property.
Additionally, Alaskan Klee Kais are not aggressive dogs and may not respond well to training that involves physical aggression or violence.
Benefits of having an Alaskan Klee Kai as a guard dog
While Alaskan Klee Kais may not be suitable for use as traditional guard dogs, they do have their benefits as watchdogs. They are highly adaptable and can be kept in smaller homes or apartments. They are also highly intelligent and trainable, making them a good choice for owners who want a dog that can be taught to recognize and respond to potential threats.
Alaskan Klee Kais are also highly affectionate and loyal to their owners, which makes them a good choice for families with children.
Alternatives to using Alaskan Klee Kais as guard dogs
If you are looking for a breed that is suitable for use as a traditional guard dog, there are several breeds that are known for their protective nature. These include the German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Doberman Pinscher, and Bullmastiff.
Conclusion: Is an Alaskan Klee Kai right for you?
While Alaskan Klee Kais may not be suitable for use as traditional guard dogs, they do have their benefits as watchdogs. They are highly intelligent and trainable and can be taught to recognize and respond to potential threats. They are also highly adaptable and can be kept in smaller homes or apartments.
If you are looking for a breed that is highly protective and suitable for use as a traditional guard dog, an Alaskan Klee Kai may not be the best choice for you. However, if you are looking for a loyal and affectionate companion that can be taught to watch over your home and family, an Alaskan Klee Kai may be a good choice.
Resources for training and caring for Alaskan Klee Kais
If you are considering getting an Alaskan Klee Kai, it is important to do your research and find a reputable breeder. It is also important to socialize and train your dog from an early age to ensure they are well-behaved and well-adjusted.
There are several resources available for training and caring for Alaskan Klee Kais, including breed-specific books and online resources. It is also a good idea to enroll your dog in obedience classes or work with a professional trainer to ensure they receive the proper training and socialization they need.