Alaskan Klee Kai vs. Siberian Husky: Key Differences
- Derk Benisch
- Feb 19
- 5 min read
The Alaskan Klee Kai and Siberian Husky are two distinct yet visually similar breeds that often confuse dog enthusiasts. Both belong to the spitz family and share wolf-like appearances, but their size, temperament, and purpose set them apart. If you're considering adding one of these breeds to your family, understanding their differences will help you make the best decision. Let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Alaskan Klee Kai vs. Siberian Husky to help you determine which breed suits your lifestyle.
Origins and History
Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky originated in Siberia, developed by the Chukchi people as a sled dog. These dogs were bred for endurance and speed, allowing them to pull sleds across long distances in harsh Arctic conditions. In the early 20th century, Huskies gained fame in Alaska during the Nome Serum Run of 1925, where they played a crucial role in delivering life-saving medicine. Today, they are widely recognized for their intelligence, strength, and affectionate nature.
Alaskan Klee Kai
The Alaskan Klee Kai is a relatively newer breed, developed in the 1970s by Linda Spurlin in Alaska. She aimed to create a companion-sized version of the Alaskan Husky by selectively breeding Huskies with smaller breeds like the Schipperke and American Eskimo Dog. "Klee Kai" means "small dog" in an Inuit dialect, perfectly describing this miniature Husky-like breed. Unlike Huskies, Klee Kais were never bred for work but rather as companion animals.
Size and Appearance
Siberian Husky
Height: 20-23.5 inches
Weight: 35-60 pounds
Build: Medium-sized, well-muscled
Coat: Thick double coat, well-insulated for cold weather
Colors: Black, white, gray, red, sable, or agouti
Eyes: Blue, brown, bi-eyed (one blue, one brown), or parti-colored
Ears: Erect, triangular
Tail: Bushy, curled over the back when alert
Alaskan Klee Kai
Height: 13-17 inches
Weight: 9-25 pounds
Build: Small, compact, agile
Coat: Thick double coat, but finer and lighter than a Husky’s
Colors: Black and white, gray and white, red and white, or solid white
Eyes: Blue, brown, green, or bi-eyed
Ears: Erect, triangular, proportionally larger than the Husky’s
Tail: Curled over the back, similar to the Husky
Key Differences
The most striking difference is size. The Siberian Husky is a medium-sized working dog, while the Alaskan Klee Kai is a small companion breed. Though their coats and markings are similar, the Klee Kai has a more fox-like appearance with a finer build.
Temperament and Personality
Siberian Husky
Friendly, outgoing, and social
Playful, good with families and children
Highly independent and sometimes stubborn
Requires significant exercise and mental stimulation
Generally gets along with other dogs, but has a high prey drive
Not ideal for first-time dog owners due to their strong-willed nature
Alaskan Klee Kai
Loyal but reserved around strangers
More alert and cautious compared to the outgoing Husky
Highly intelligent and trainable, but can be sensitive
Requires moderate exercise, though less than a Husky
Better suited for smaller living spaces
Tends to be more vocal and expressive
Key Differences
Huskies are pack animals that love socializing, making them poor guard dogs. They are known for their friendliness, even toward strangers. Klee Kais, on the other hand, are more reserved and cautious, often displaying aloof behavior around new people. They are better watchdogs due to their alertness.
Exercise Needs and Energy Levels
Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies have high energy levels and require at least 2 hours of exercise per day. They are bred for endurance and enjoy activities like running, hiking, and pulling sleds or carts. Without enough exercise, they may develop destructive behaviors.
Alaskan Klee Kai
Alaskan Klee Kais are also energetic but require less exercise—about 45 minutes to 1 hour per day. They enjoy running and agility exercises but are more adaptable to indoor living than Huskies. However, they still need mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
Key Differences
If you have an active lifestyle and enjoy outdoor activities, a Husky may be a better fit. If you prefer a moderate activity level with a dog that can thrive in an apartment, a Klee Kai would be a better choice.
Trainability and Intelligence
Siberian Husky
Huskies are intelligent but independent, making them challenging to train. They have a strong-willed nature and often ignore commands if they don’t see the benefit. They require consistent, firm, and patient training with positive reinforcement.
Alaskan Klee Kai
Klee Kais are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them more trainable than Huskies. However, they can also be sensitive, so harsh training methods should be avoided. Early socialization is crucial to prevent shyness or excessive wariness.
Key Differences
Huskies are stubborn and independent, making them harder to train, while Klee Kais are eager to please but can be sensitive. If you're looking for an easier breed to train, the Klee Kai is the better option.
Grooming and Maintenance
Siberian Husky
Shedding: Heavy, especially during seasonal coat blows
Brushing: Required 2-3 times per week, daily during shedding seasons
Bathing: Only when necessary; they have a self-cleaning coat
Other Grooming: Regular nail trimming, ear cleaning
Alaskan Klee Kai
Shedding: Moderate but still requires regular grooming
Brushing: 2-3 times per week
Bathing: Only when needed, as their coat is also self-cleaning
Other Grooming: Regular nail trimming, ear cleaning
Key Differences
Both breeds shed heavily, but Huskies have more intense seasonal shedding. If you want less fur to deal with, the Klee Kai sheds less overall.
Health and Lifespan
Siberian Husky
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Common Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and hypothyroidism
Alaskan Klee Kai
Lifespan: 12-16 years
Common Health Issues: Patellar luxation, heart defects, thyroid issues, and liver shunts
Key Differences
Both breeds are relatively healthy, but Huskies are more prone to hip and eye issues, while Klee Kais have more hereditary small-dog health concerns.
Which Breed is Right for You?
Choose a Siberian Husky if: You have an active lifestyle, enjoy the outdoors, and can commit to training and exercise.
Choose an Alaskan Klee Kai if: You want a smaller, more manageable Husky look-alike, prefer a more reserved personality, and live in a smaller space.
Final Thoughts
Both the Alaskan Klee Kai and Siberian Husky are stunning breeds with unique characteristics. The best choice depends on your lifestyle, space, and experience with dogs. While Huskies demand more time, space, and energy, Klee Kais offer a compact, more manageable alternative with similar looks but distinct temperament differences.
Regardless of your choice, both breeds are intelligent, affectionate, and require commitment to proper training and care. Choose wisely, and you'll have a loyal companion for years to come!
