|
Small in size yet big in personality, the Alaskan Klee Kai turns heads wherever he goes.
By Patricia Kime
It's rarely quiet in Lo Binkley's California ranch house. With three Alaskan Klee Kai in the family, Binkley's home often resonates with a soft, persistent nattering. Her dogs like to make their presence known — to each other, their owner, the mail carrier, or anyone who will listen.
"When someone is coming down the road, I sometimes can tell who it is — the dogs have different vocalizations for different people," Binkley says of Mac, 7, Mali, 4, and Ruby, 2.
Mac used his vocal skills a few years ago when Binkley forgot to turn the water off while filling her hot tub. Sensing something amiss, Mac stared at his owner and began a soliloquy of yips, murmurs, and barks. "He wanted to tell me something, and he did," she says.
Yet Alaskan Klee Kai, or AKKs, don't need to vocalize to get noticed. With the appearance of a small Siberian or Alaskan Husky that looks puppyish even in old age, this rare breed's distinctive face markings, contrasting coloring, and petite stature make it a showstopper in and out of the show ring.
Want to read the full story? Pick up the April 2008 issue of DOG FANCY today, or subscribe to get 12 months of articles just like this.
|