THE GERMAN SHEPHERD HUSKY MIX
Dog hybrids come in all types of combinations, and a German Shepherd Husky Mix is one of the most popular hybrids. Also known as the Gerberian Shepsky, the German Shepherd Husky Mix is known as a designer breed or hybrid because it results from the intentional mixing of purebreds (i.e., a dog with a German Shepherd and Siberian Husky parents).
What is a German Shepherd Husky Mix?
The German Shepherd Husky Mix is a cross between a German Shepherd and the Siberian Husky. The German Shepherd Husky Mix is a brilliant, bold, and powerful working dog with a wolf-like appearance.
Origin of the German Shepherd Husky Mix
The German Shepherd Husky Mix is a relatively new breed, and very little is known about its true origin and source. However, many dog experts claim that the first-ever breed was done intentionally during the late 1980s.
Originally, the parents of a German Shepherd and a Siberian Husky were crossbred to produce a top-notch working dog, as both parents make excellent working dogs. Soon, their intelligence, strength, and speed made them useful in search and rescue operations as they assumed significant roles in the army and police.
To better understand the German Shepherd Husky Mix, let’s take a short look at the origin of the parent breeds.
What is the History of the German Shepherd Husky Mix?
Born in Germany in 1899, the German Shepherd was used to tend sheep and pull heavy loads in difficult conditions. During the Alaska Gold Rush, they were imported and used as sled dogs. The breed later became popular in the United States and Canada as pets. The Siberian Husky is believed to have originated in the Siberian Arctic more than two millennia ago. The nomadic Indian tribes mainly used it to help pull sleds and heavy loads. Siberian Huskies first arrived in North America in the 1900s.
Despite a relatively short history on earth, German Shepherd Husky Mixes have already caught on with most people and are becoming more popular every day.
Physical characteristics of the German Husky Shepherd Mix
1. Distinctive facial features
A German Husky Shepherd Mix is one of the cutest puppies you will ever see. They naturally have pointed ears and a unique wolfish appearance. They might also inherit beautiful blue eyes or two-toned eye colors that are often associated with the husky.
2. Life expectancy
The average lifespan of the Gerberian Shepsky is usually between 10 and 13 years, and up to 18 years old sometimes. The lifespan may vary based on various factors, including genetics, general health, diet, activity, lifestyle, and exercise.
3. Height and weight
The Siberian Husky stands an average of 20 to 23 inches tall. It is medium-sized and weighs about 35 to 60 pounds. On the other hand, the German Shepherds have an average height of 22 to 26 inches tall. They are huge and weigh around 49 to 88 pounds. The German Shepherd Husky Mix is usually somewhere in between.
4. Coat
The German Shepherd Husky Mix will likely have a thick coat because both parents have a thick double coat/skin. The coat, which can be either short or long, soft or dense, protects the breed from colder climates.
5. Colors
Most German Shepherd Husky Mixes are darker in color because the darker shades of color are more than the lighter ones. The lighter-colored coated dogs usually result from two white or lighter-colored parents.
Possible Health Risks and Problems
Here is a list of some common German Shepherd Husky Mix health problems.
1. Elbow and hip dysplasia
Elbow and hip dysplasia can cause loose and unstable joints in dogs. They can be easily prevented with healthy nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate rest. Since this condition is mainly caused by obesity, always ensure that your dog is not overweight or underweight.
2. Canine glaucoma
Canine glaucoma is a disease that affects the dogs’ optic nerve, causing pressure in the eye. About 40%-50% of dogs with this disease go blind in the affected eye during the first year.
3. Corneal dystrophy
This severe eye condition results in an accumulation of abnormal material located in the dog’s cornea. It can lead to visual impairment over time.
4. Juvenile cataracts
This condition can appear as early as 5 months old in some breeds. In severe cases, it can progress to complete blindness before the pup’s first birthday.
5. Progressive retinal atrophy
This disease is hereditary and usually occurs during the dog’s twilight years. Some of the symptoms are dilated pupils, night blindness, and the inability to see in bright light. Although the disease is incurable, early diagnosis can help to better protect your dog’s vision.
6. Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes uncontrolled and recurring seizures. The dog may even pass out in some cases.
7. Cancer
Like other dog breeds, the German Shepherd and Siberian Huskies are usually prone to cancer.
8. Ear infections
Dogs with large ears (like the German Shepherd Husky Mix) are usually prone to ear infections. It can be prevented by practicing proper hygiene, i.e., regular cleaning and inspection of the ears. Make sure you only use natural ear cleaning products to clean your dog’s ears.
Maintaining and Caring for a German Shepherd Husky Mix
Grooming and Shedding
It is a moderate shedder, so ensure no one in the family has allergies if you intend to bring this dog home. You might also consider hypoallergenic dogs if a family member has allergies.
Due to its double-coat, the Gerberian Shepsky needs to be brushed 2-3 times a week to maintain the coat and remove excess hair. Never shave a German Shepherd Husky Mix, as this can lead to several skin problems.
Exercise and Training
As with having a dog, you must practice proper training and socialization as soon as possible from the puppy stage. The German Shepherd Husky Mix is an intelligent dog and learns quickly. They can withstand high-intensity exercise without easily getting tired and can also be that perfect exercise companion.
Diet
Since these dogs are examples of larger breeds, always ensure that they receive the proper nutrition. Poor nutrition can adversely affect their growth, so you must always prepare a well-balanced meal that is rich in all the nutrients and vitamins.
Three cups of high-quality kibble a day is generally an ideal amount and sometimes go with delicious wet food. Also, ensure that your dog always has access to a clean water supply.
Environment and Living Conditions
A relatively large and active dog like the German Shepherd Husky Mix should have a suitable large area to roam freely and get enough exercise at the same time.
An ideal living condition for this dog would be a house with a large fenced backyard. The backyard should be big enough to play games of fetch, tug of war, or flyball, especially if you don’t have time for daily walks.
Always try to keep the environment moderately cold because of the double coat of the dog. This particular breed shouldn’t be living in a hot and humid desert climate.
Prices and Costs of a German Shepherd Husky Mix
It will cost around $350- $900 for a German Shepherd Husky Mix puppy. The medical costs could be around $500 to $600 per year, as well. Feeding, training, professional grooming, and other miscellaneous expenses, like toys and toiletries, may also cost as much as $1,000 per year or more.
How to Adopt a German Shepherd Husky Mix
If you’re looking for a German Shepherd Husky Mix, we recommend starting your search at a nearby adoption center or rescue shelter. You’ll be helping reputable shelters do what they do best – giving dogs the love and care they need, along with a chance to find their forever humans and families.
Learn more about your favorite dog breeds at The Dog’s Avenue.
Editor’s Note
This article is intended for educational purposes only. It is not to be used as a replacement for veterinary advice. Factors like a dog’s age, health, and diet can impact the safety of a food, activity, or product for the dog.
You should regularly consult with your dog’s veterinarian to learn how you can provide the best care for your dog. Always ask your dog’s veterinarian before giving your dog a new food or trying out a new activity or product.
