The Alaskan Klee Kai was developed to be a companion animal; at that it excels with the ideal temperament for the job. Without adequate socialization though, the Alaskan Klee Kai has the potential to become a nervous dog with limits to its friendliness.
The Cautious Alaskan Klee Kai
Breeders of the Alaskan Klee Kai have noted a strong tendency in the majority of the Alaskan Klee Kai population. That tendency is to be very cautious of strangers, both of the four and two-legged variety. An Alaskan Klee Kai that has had only limited exposure to other people and animals will be very reserved with strangers, and if the dog is not properly trained early in life the tendency can grow into fear.
In a few dogs, mostly of the toy variety of Alaskan Klee Kai, an unmanaged fear can lead to some biting and nipping at the heals of strangers. Dogs that have been properly socialized, however, tend not to develop this extreme nervousness and fear, and although they may still be reserved with people who enter the home, they are not likely to be aggressive.
What Socialization Teaches The Alaskan Klee Kai
Socialization gains a dog a wider exposure and understanding of the world. It shows a dog that there are other beings (people, dogs, and animals)out there, so when one shows up on your dog's doorstep, they won't have a need to fear it.
Socialization also shows the Alaskan Klee Kai that other dogs can and do successfully live life outside their home; the example of positive socialization gives the Alaskan Klee Kai a measure of confidence, alleviating fears of strangers and strange situations.
Tips For Successful Alaskan Klee Kai Socialization
The best way to socialize your Alaskan Klee Kai is to start when you bring your dog home.
Let the dog travel with you whenever possible. This gives your dog a chance to observe a number of situations, animals, and people. It removes the unknown to increase your dog's confidence.
Expose your Alaskan Klee Kai to other dogs on neutral ground-such as at a park or playground-where he or she will not feel their own personal territory is threatened.
Obedience classes are good tools for socialization with an Alaskan Klee Kai, too (not to mention, an excellent way to learn to manage your pet). Dog obedience classes expose your pet to both people and animals.
You can help your nervous dog by crating them when newcomers enter your home in an area where the dog can observe the visitor. Let your dog take some time to acclimate and observe the stranger, and when he or she feels comfortable, allow them to come out (if they wish) and meet on their terms.
It is important for Alaskan Klee Kai socialization to begin early in life, but it is equally important to maintain socialization. A dog whose socialization stops will eventually grow to be wary of the outside world again. When socialization is maintained throughout the animal's life, the dog will remain confident and secure in its surroundings (and out of them), and you will have a versatile, loving animal that can safely (although at times still be reserved) go anywhere.
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