What is the Origin of the Alaskan Klee Kai?
The Alaskan Klee Kai may look like a natural husky variant, but this unique breed has a carefully crafted origin story. Unlike many ancient northern breeds, the Klee Kai is relatively new, first appearing in the 1970s in Wasilla, Alaska.
The Vision of Linda Spurlin
The breed’s founder, Linda Spurlin, wanted to create a dog that had all the beauty and intelligence of the Alaskan Husky but in a size more suited to family companionship. Huskies, while stunning, are large, powerful, and bred for work—traits that don’t always fit well in modern households.
Linda began selectively breeding smaller Alaskan Huskies with other small northern and spitz-type breeds such as the American Eskimo Dog and the Schipperke. Her goal was to reduce the size while retaining the wolf-like appearance and spirited temperament.
Early Development
For over a decade, Spurlin carefully bred and refined the dogs privately, ensuring that health, temperament, and appearance aligned with her vision. In the late 1980s, she finally decided to share the breed with the public, and the Alaskan Klee Kai began to attract attention from dog enthusiasts around the country.
Recognition as a Breed
The Alaskan Klee Kai gained formal recognition from the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1997. While not yet recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), the breed has a dedicated parent club and growing popularity worldwide. Their rarity adds to their charm, making them highly sought after among those who admire their “mini husky” look.
Why the Origin Matters
Understanding the Klee Kai’s origin helps explain many of its traits. Unlike huskies bred for work, the Klee Kai was designed as a companion breed—which is why they are smaller, more reserved, and more alert than their larger cousins.
In short: The Alaskan Klee Kai is not an accident of nature—it’s the result of one breeder’s vision to create the perfect miniature husky companion.