Caring for your Alaskan Klee Kai

Quick answer

The Alaskan Klee Kai is a highly intelligent, energetic, and loyal companion that requires consistent positive reinforcement and daily activity to thrive. While they are generally healthy, owners should remain vigilant for signs of joint discomfort, changes in energy levels, or bleeding irregularities. Early detection through regular veterinary check-ups is the best way to manage the specific health tendencies associated with this breed.

Patellar luxation

Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap moves out of its normal position within the groove of the thigh bone. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. At home, you might notice your dog skipping a step, holding a leg up while walking, or suddenly stopping during exercise. Some dogs may also show signs of stiffness or an unusual gait.

When you visit the clinic, your vet will perform a physical examination to manually manipulate the kneecap and assess its stability. If the kneecap slides out of place easily, the vet will grade the severity of the luxation. In many cases, this is a well recognised condition in the breed. If your dog is limping or showing signs of pain, this warrants an appointment to prevent long-term joint damage. A common mistake owners make is assuming a limp will resolve on its own, which can lead to chronic inflammation or arthritis.

Thyroid disease

Thyroid disease involves the underproduction of hormones that regulate your dog's metabolism. This is a recognised tendency rather than a proven one. Owners often notice subtle changes first, such as unexplained weight gain, lethargy, a dull coat, or skin issues that do not respond to standard treatments. Because these symptoms can mimic other issues, they are often overlooked until they become more pronounced.

Your vet will likely recommend blood tests to measure thyroid hormone levels. These tests are the standard way to confirm a diagnosis. Once identified, the condition is typically managed with daily medication. It is important to monitor your dog's energy levels and weight closely, as these are the most reliable indicators of how well the treatment is working. Do not wait for severe lethargy to appear before seeking advice.

Heart murmurs

A heart murmur is an extra or unusual sound heard during a heartbeat, often caused by turbulent blood flow. This is a well recognised condition in the breed. At home, you will likely not hear anything unusual, as murmurs are typically detected during a routine physical exam. However, if the condition progresses, you might notice your dog tiring more easily, coughing, or experiencing difficulty breathing.

Your vet will use a stethoscope to listen to your dog's heart. If a murmur is detected, they may suggest an echocardiogram, which is an ultrasound of the heart, to determine the cause and severity. This test provides a clear picture of the heart's structure and function. If you notice your dog struggling to keep up during play or showing signs of respiratory distress, this is an urgent matter that requires immediate veterinary attention.

Factor VII deficiency

Factor VII deficiency is an inherited blood clotting disorder. How this passes down is not settled. Because this condition affects the blood's ability to clot, you might not notice any signs until your dog undergoes surgery, experiences an injury, or has a dental procedure. In some cases, you may see excessive bleeding from minor wounds or unusual bruising.

Your vet can perform specific blood tests to evaluate your dog's clotting ability. If your dog is known to have this deficiency, it is critical to inform your vet before any surgical procedure or tooth extraction. The most dangerous mistake is failing to disclose this condition before an elective surgery, as it can lead to significant blood loss. Always ensure your vet is aware of this status so they can take necessary precautions to manage bleeding risks.

Living with an Alaskan Klee Kai