German Shepherd Husky mix or Shepsky are medium to large dogs bred by crossbreeding two quite popular dog breeds German Shepherd and Husky. They are intelligent, strong and agile having a wolf like appearance.
With the mix of two great dogs, Shepsky inherits qualities of both the dogs. German Shepherd Husky mix is a very energetic dog that wouldn’t be recommended for apartment living. They need a long yard to suffice their mental and physical stimulation.
They are not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
History of Shepsky
Both German Shepherd and Husky are old breeds and have existed since long. German Shepherd was bred as a herding dog in late 19th century. Siberian Huskies were bred in northern Russia as sledding dog since ancient times.
It is not yet clear when the cross breeding of the breeds might have started but the designer cross breeds started to become visible in late 20th century. The German Shepherd Husky mix is not popular yet but sure becoming more popular year by year.
German Shepherd Husky Mix – Temperament
German Shepherd Husky Mix is a very loyal, intelligent and agile dog. The actual traits of the dog may vary a bit depending on which dog breed is more prominent. Let us look at the temperament of the two parent dog breeds that make the Shepsky.
German Shepherd
German Shepherd does not make friends easily but if they do they become very loyal. They are quite intelligent dog breed and if threatened, they are quite protective as well. This makes them a great watch dog.
They are easily trainable and needs work for mental stimulation. They are quite common as Police or Military dogs. As with any other dog, they need early socialization so they grow up as a well rounded dog.
One thing that German Shepherd owner knows is that he cannot be left alone. They are prone to suffer from separation anxiety.
Siberian Husky
Huskies are also loyal and intelligent dogs. And they are independent and obstinate as well at times. They are also quite known for their agility.
Huskies love every one and may befriend an intruder as well so yes they are not good as guard dogs. They are good as a working dog. Huskies are escape artist and may find ways to escape the fence.
Due to their charismatic wolf like appearance many owners make this breed as their pet often realizing later that they are not suitable for them. When they get to know about their independent and a bit obstinate attitude as well. This leads to many Huskies left behind at the adoption centers.
Concluding, Shepsky get their temperament from both the parent breeds. They are very intelligent and loyal dogs but need an experience dominant owner who takes the position of leader. With the traits of the German Shepherd, they do serve great as loyal watch dogs or guard dogs.
German Shepherd Husky Mix are quite agile and energetic and excel well as a working dog as well. They are not ideal for apartment living or for folks who cannot spend time with them for daily exercises and play time.
If trained well and socialized properly, Shepsky do great with children and pets as well. Though it is not a dog to be left alone for long and is prone to suffer from separation anxiety.
German Shepherd Husky Mix – Physical Characteristics
They are charismatic and wolf like and can make a few heads turn as you go along with Shepsky on a walk. They are medium to large size dogs having a long head & strong, lean muscular body.
Their eyes are almond in shape and have triangular ears. Shepsky may have different colors in the eyes, a condition known as Heterochromia.
Shepsky have a double coat and comes mostly in combination of colors like brown, black, cream, white, red, and blue.
German Shepherd Husky Mix would shed a lot as both their parent breeds shed a lot. They would not be a good choice for folks who are allergenic to dogs.
Need help with shedding - check here Looking for dogs that do not shed much - check here
Shepsky may grow to a height of approx 20 to 25 inches and weigh approx 45 to 90 pounds. The average life span of German Shepherd Husky Mix is around 10 to 14 years.
Care required
Nutrition:
Shepsky are recommended to have high quality dog food to suffice their exercise needs. Take the advise of the vet who can advise based on the age, size and build of the dog.
Grooming:
They have double coat to comfort them in the cold temperatures and shed a lot specially at times of year when their inner coat blows out. Frequent brushing would be required then to avoid their hairs every where.
Exercise:
They are quite active breed and would need at least two hours of active time. Hence they are recommended for folks having a lot of active life.
Training:
Shepsky are quite intelligent and would learn the command easily. They, as like any other large dogs, would require an obedience training so that they know the leader and respect his commands.
With the Husky instincts, they can be obstinate at times but firm and consistent training will help.
Health
Shepsky may suffer from some dog health issues. Common issues seen in them are –
- Hip Dysplasia
- Patellar Luxation
- Epilepsy
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Pros and Cons of German Shepherd Husky Mix
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| An excellent Guard dog | Shed a lot. Not for folks who are allergic |
| Charismatic wolf like appearance | Need lot of active time for daily exercise |
FAQ
Is German Shepherd Husky Mix a good family dog?
What is a German shepherd husky mix called?
How big does a German shepherd husky mix grow?
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