Featuring February's !RARE! Breed of the Month

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Welcome to Our !RARE! Breed of the Month Feature!


January’s !RARE! Breed of the Month

2011 !RARE! Breed of the Month Recap
2012 !RARE! Breed of the Month Recap

Featuring February’s !RARE! Breed of the Month
the Alaskan Klee Kai



Alaskan Klee Kai by AnxietyPatient Tawny Sight by AriyaSnow

What is an Alaskan Klee Kai?

The Alaskan Klee Kai is basically a working styled Alaskan husky but in a tiny package. Originating in Alaska this breed was officially recognized by the United Kennel Club on January 1, 1997.

History & Origin

According to the breed standard by the United Kennel Club, "The Alaskan Klee Kai was developed in Alaska by Linda Spurlin and her family, to be a companion-sized version of a type of dog referred to as the Alaskan Husky. From the early 70’s through 1988, the Spurlins carefully selected dogs who met their high standards for appearance and soundness. In 1988, they made the Alaskan Klee Kai available to others. Mrs. Spurlin originally called her new breed the “Klee Kai”, but in 1995 it was changed to “Alaskan Klee Kai."



Appearance & Structure

The Alaskan Klee Kai is a small version of a type of dog referred to as the Alaskan Husky, with a wedge-shaped head featuring a striking masked face, prick ears, and a double coat. The length of body is just slightly longer than the height. The tail is well-furred and curls over the back or to either side when the dog is alert or moving. The appearance of the Alaskan Klee Kai reflects the breed’s Northern heritage.

It is intended that the Alaskan Klee Kai remain a small to medium-sized dog. Height is measured from the withers to the ground. An Alaskan Klee Kai should not appear heavy or too thin. Weight should be proportionate to height.

The Alaskan Klee Kai comes in three size varieties; Toy, which is up to 13 inches in height, Miniature which is over 13 inches up to 15 inches in height, and Standard which is over 15 inches up to 17 inches in height.





Color

All coat colors acceptable provided that the facial mask is distinct and clearly visible and there is a contrasting lighter color on the dog’s throat, chest, breeches, feet, legs and underside. The overall appearance is one of symmetry.

Temperament

The most distinctive characteristic of the Alaskan Klee Kai is the facial mask, which must be clearly visible due to contrasting colors. The full face mask is the most desirable. The Alaskan Klee Kai is very curious, active, quick and agile. His loyalty and alertness make the Alaskan Klee Kai an excellent watchdog, who may be territorial despite his small size. While affectionate with family members, the Alaskan Klee Kai is reserved and cautious with strangers and in unfamiliar situations.

@ www.ukcdogs.com



Featuring February‘s Targeted Breed of the Month
the Chow Chow




The Chow Chow originates from ancient China as a hunting dog, being a breed that is believed to be more 2,000 years old. According to the American Kennel Club, "The name "Chow Chow" has little basis for its origin in China; it is believed that expression evolved from the pidgin-English term for articles brought from any part of the Oriental Empire during the latter part of the 18th century. It meant knick-knacks or bric-a-brac, including curios such as porcelain and ivory figurines, and finally what is described today as "mixed pickles", whether of the edible variety or not."

The Chow Chow is a breed of dog often subject to breed-specific legislation including breed bans and other forms of discrimination such as being recognized as a "High Risk" breed by insurance carriers. In Pilot Grove, Missouri, for example, deems the Chow Chow as one of eight different breeds as being dangerous; the breed is also targeted in cities of Kentucky, Arkansas and various other parts across the United States. Ownership of the breed is completely outlawed in Osceola, Nebraska and in Newport, Rhode Island.

The breed is naturally very aloof and standoffish in general, and is described as being extremely protective and loyal that has a tendency of being a one-man kind of dog.



Quick Facts:
• Country of Origin: China
• Functionality: Hunting & guard dog in ancient China, modern day guard dog & companion
• Coat Colors: Solid or solid with lighter shades in the following colors - red, black, blue, cinnamon  & cream
• Height: Dogs – 19 to 22 inches & Bitches – 17 to 20 inches

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TeaPhotography's avatar
Keep up the good work! :clap:
I look forward to what is next. :D