The Husky German Shepherd Mix dog, also known as the Gerberian Shepsky, is a crossbreed between a German Shepherd and a Siberian Husky. These dogs are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and trainability, making them a popular choice for families and individuals alike.
However, before bringing the Husky German Shepherd Mix dog into your home, it is important to understand the characteristics and needs of the breed. In this article, we will discuss 11 things you should know about the breed.
1: The Origins of the Husky German Shepherd Mix Dog
The origins of the Gerberian Shepsky can be traced back to the late 1980s and early 1990s, when the first intentional breeding between German Shepherds and Siberian Huskies occurred.
The goal of these early breeders was to create a dog that combined the best traits of both breeds: the intelligence and trainability of the German Shepherd and the strength and endurance of the Siberian Husky.
As the breed developed, it quickly gained popularity among dog enthusiasts for its unique appearance and versatile nature. The Husky German Shepherd Mix dogs are known for their striking blue or multi-colored eyes, as well as their thick, fluffy coats that come in a variety of colors.
They are also very easy to train and highly intelligent, which makes them one of the greatest breeds any family can adopt.
Despite their popularity, the Gerberian Shepsky is still not recognized as an official breed by major kennel clubs such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) or the United Kennel Club (UKC). However, the breed is recognized by several smaller breed organizations, and it has gained a dedicated following of breeders and pet lovers.
2: Husky German Shepherd Mix Physical Characteristics
The physical characteristics of the Husky German Shepherd Mix dog can vary depending on which parent it takes more after, but generally, they tend to have the following characteristics:
Coat: The Gerberian Shepsky typically have a thick, double coat that can come in a variety of colors, including black, white, gray, and tan.
Size: Husky German Shepherd Mix dogs are usually medium- to large-sized dogs, with males typically reaching heights of around 25–28 inches and females around 23–25 inches. They can weigh between 35 and 85 pounds.
Eyes: The Gerberian Shepsky’s eyes are often striking and unique. Most times, one of the eyes is blue and the other is brown.
Ears: Their ears are typically triangular and erect.
Tail: They have a thick, bushy tail that is usually held in a slight curve.
Body: They have a strong, muscular body with a deep chest and a slightly sloping back.
Face: They have a distinct facial structure, with a strong jaw and a pointed muzzle.
3: Husky German Shepherd Mix Temperament
Husky German Shepherd Mix dogs are known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners. They can be protective of their family and make great watchdogs.
The Husky German Shepherd Mix dog can be strong-willed and require a confident, experienced owner who is able to provide consistent and firm training and boundaries. They are also known to be very intelligent and trainable, making them easy to train for various tasks.
4: Husky German Shepherd Mix Energy Level
The Gerberian Shepsky has a high energy level and requires regular exercise to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. To be frank, this breed is not suited for apartment living; rather, they are at their best in homes with a large backyard or access to nearby parks or trails.
5: Husky German Shepherd Mix Dog Training
As mentioned earlier, Husky German Shepherds mix dogs are highly trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. It’s important to start training and socializing your Gerberian shepsky as early as possible because they can be stubborn and independent at times.
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Obedience training, crate training, and basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel should be the foundation of your training. Due to their high energy and intelligence, they also benefit from additional training such as agility training, advanced obedience training, and even search and rescue or therapy dog training.
Positive reinforcement training methods, such as rewards-based training, are recommended as they are effective and humane.It’s also important to provide them with plenty of physical and mental stimulation through regular exercise, interactive toys, and puzzle feeders.
6: Husky German Shepherd Mix Dog Grooming
A Husky German Shepherd mix dog, also known as a Gerberian Shepsky, will likely have a thick and dense coat that will require regular grooming to maintain its health and appearance.
To groom a Gerberian Shepsky, you should start by brushing its coat at least once a week to remove any tangles, mats, or loose hair. A shedding rake or a slicker brush can be helpful for this task.
It’s also important to give the dog regular baths, but avoid over-bathing, as this can dry out the skin and cause irritation. You may want to use a German Shepherd shampoo and conditioner to help keep the coat shiny and healthy.
Additionally, you may need to trim the dog’s nails, clean its ears, and brush its teeth to keep it healthy and comfortable.
It’s also good idea to consult a professional groomer if you are not confident in performing these tasks yourself or if you notice any signs of skin irritation or other health issues.
7: How To Feed Your Husky German Shepherd Mix Dog
The Husky German Shepherd Mix requires a high-quality diet to maintain their energy levels and support their active lifestyle.
To feed your Husky German Shepherd mix dog, you should follow these general guidelines:
- Feed them a high-quality, nutritious diet that is appropriate for their size and activity level. Look for a food that is specifically formulated for large breeds.
- Feed them the appropriate amount of food based on their weight and activity level. You can use a feeding chart as a guide or consult with your veterinarian for specific recommendations.
- Feed them on a consistent schedule, ideally twice a day, at the same time each day.
- Provide them with fresh, clean water at all times.
- Monitor their weight and adjust their food intake as needed to maintain a healthy weight.
- Avoid feeding table scraps or too many treats, as these can lead to weight gain and other health problems.
- If you are unsure what to feed your dog, consult with your veterinarian for specific recommendations.
Also, keep in mind that all dogs are unique and may have different dietary requirements. It’s always a good idea to work with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your dog based on their individual needs.
8: Husky German Shepherd Mix Dog Health Issues
Like many breeds, the Gerberian Shepsky can be prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and bloat. Regular vet check-ups and a healthy diet can help prevent or manage these issues.
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9: Husky German Shepherd Mix Life Expectancy
The Husky German Shepherd Mix dog has a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years.
10: Is Husky German Shepherd suitable for families?
The Gerberian Sheepsky is a great family pet and is good with children and other pets when properly socialized. They are protective of their family, making them an excellent watchdog.
11: What is the cost of a Husky German Shepherd Mix dog?
The cost of a Husky German Shepherd Mix dog can vary depending on the location and the breeder. On average, you can expect to pay between $800 and $1200 for a Gerberian Shepsky puppy.
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