German Shepherd Husky Guide
Dog hybrids come in all kinds of combinations and a German Shepherd Husky Mix happens to be one of the most popular hybrids. A German Shepherd Husky Mix is a designer dog with German Shepherd and Siberian Husky parents. It is called a designer breed or hybrid because it is a result of the intentional mixing of purebreds.
What is the name for these puppies? Husky Shepherd, Siberian Shepherd, or German Husky? Is it Germusky? Herman Shusky? Well, these dogs are most commonly called Gerberian Shepsky. Yes, Gerberian Shepsky! It sounds funny, but it best describes these dogs.
I’m a veterinarian technician and in my career I’ve treated dozens of German Shepherd Husky mixes and talked extensively with their owners on what it’s like owning this fine specimen.
German Shepherd Husky Mix Facts Sheet
| German Shepherd Husky Mix Fact Sheet | |
| Appearance | Long head, a strong muzzle, alert almond-shaped eyes, pointy ears |
| Average weight | 35 to 88 pounds |
| Average height | 20 to 26 inches |
| Type of coat | Double, can be short or long, straight |
| Shedding | Moderate to fairly high |
| Color | The most common: brown and black, white and black |
| Personality and temperament | Loyal, intelligent, friendly, active and powerful, affectionate, dignified, make for good guard dogs, family dogs |
| Needs for grooming | Moderate |
| Major health concerns | Elbow and hip dysplasia, juvenile cataracts, corneal dystrophy, PRA, CDR, FDV, vWD, anal furunculosis, panosteitis, impaired thyroid function, bloating, cancer, and epilepsy |
| Other health concerns | Dwarfism, allergies, and eczema |
| Life Span | 10 to 13 years |
| Diet | High in protein |
| Needs for training and exercise | Fairly high, need lots of training and exercise |
| Family | Not suitable for families who don’t live in spacious home, don’t have active lifestyle, or can’t take the dog out for a walk at least once daily |
What are your thoughts about these facts? If you’re looking for a new member of the family, consider getting or adopting a German Shepherd Husky mix. These dogs are highly intelligent ang very devoted as they acquire some of the best traits of their parents. They’re also incredibly fun to be with.
Continue reading to learn more about German Shepherd Husky mixes. I bet you’ll fall in love with them.
Other Husky & German Shepherd Mixes
Picking the breed of dog that aligns with your lifestyle is extremely important. Every year tens of thousands of dogs are put up for adoption because the owner didn’t do their research.
Not sure the German Shepherd Husky aligns with your lifestyle? Consider adopting one of 50+ popular Husky Mixes or German Shepherd mixes.
Alpha Paw has conducted the most in-depth research into the most popular mix breed dogs in America:
German Shepherd Mixes
Husky German Shepherd Mix Origins. Where Did This Breed Come From?
The German Shepherd Husky mix is a relatively new designer dog breed. Very little is known about where and when it originated. Many dog experts claim that the first of this kind was bred intentionally sometime in the late 1980s.
Originally, a German Shepherd and a Siberian Husky parents were mated to produce a first-rate working dog, since both the parents are excellent working dogs. Soon, because of their sheer strength and quick intellect, they were used to assist with search-and-rescue operations and took military and police roles.
It would help to get a glimpse of the origin of the parent breeds to have a better understanding of German Shepherd Husky mix.
The German Shepherd , which originated in 1899 in Germany, were used to herd sheep and pull heavy loads under tough conditions. They were imported and used as sled dogs during the Alaskan Gold Rush. The breed eventually became popular throughout Canada and the United States as great pets. The Siberian Husky is believed to have originated over two millennia ago from the Siberian Arctic. Nomadic Indian tribes used these dogs to help with pulling sleds and heavy loads. The Siberian Huskies made their way to North America in the 1900s.
Despite having relatively short history, German Shepherd Husky mixes have already become fashionable and increasingly common.
German Shepherd Husky Mix Puppies!
For the most part, when two different thoroughbred canines mate, the puppies will most often inherit traits from their parents. This will vary from litter to litter, of course. And it’s not uncommon when they acquire most of their features from one of their parents. So, don’t be disappointed if your puppies resemble their German Shepherd parent more than their Siberian Husky parent or vice versa. But rest assured that German Shepherd Husky mix puppies look a lot like their parents in terms of how they look as well as their personality or temperament.
German Shepherd Husky Looks & Aesthetics
As mentioned, a German Shepherd Husky can have any combination of the physical characteristics of their parents. This striking creature has a medium to long head and a strong, somewhat pointy muzzle. A German Shepherd Husky has pointy triangular ears and a set of alert almond-shaped eyes. It’s not unusual for this mixed breed dog to have two different colored eyes. The puppies of these parent breeds are well-built, energetic, and athletic.
German Shepherd Husky mixes are super fluffy and their beautiful coat contributes to their attractive appearance. Like German Shepherds and Siberian Huskies, this designer dog has a double coat. It has a tough top coat and an insulating layer of undercoat that is made up of short hair. The undercoat protects and keeps the dogs warm in cold regions. Some of their undercoat will shed during the months of summer, keeping them nice and cool during the hotter weather. All in all, the coat of German Shepherd Husky mixes is not only beautiful, but functional as well.
Husky German Shepherd Size. How Big Do They Get & How Fast?
What is the size of a typical Husky German Shepherd Mix? Expect the size to be from the smallest Siberian Husky to the biggest German Shepherd. A Siberian Husky is a medium-sized dog that usually grow up to around 20 to 23 inches in height. On the other hand, a German Shepherd is categorized as a large breed and can grow up to around 22 to 26 inches tall. So expect your Husky German Shepherd Mix to be between 20 and 26 inches tall.
When talking about weight, Siberian Huskies weigh between 35 and 60 pounds, while German Shepherds are much heavier at around 49 to 88 pounds. So perhaps the weight of a Husky German Shepherd Mix will be from 35 to 88 pounds.
There’s a larger difference in weight than in height because of the different body types that depend on your furry friend’s genetic history. This can also be due the gender of the dog.
German Shepherd and Husky Mix Color
Like its height and weight, the color of the German Shepherd and Husky Mix will be a combination of the color of its parents. The most common color combinations are brown-black and white-black. You’ll see many other different colors, including the following: red, white, cream, blue, gray, golden brown, and light brown. The color of you German Shepherd and Husky Mix is simply a product of genetics.
Husky and German Shepherd Mix Personalities
You won’t be disappointed if you bring home a new Husky and German Shepherd Mix puppy. These dogs are:
- Good guard dogs. They inherited this characteristic from their parents. But they can be excessive barkers.
- Intelligent. Compared to some other breeds, they learn things quickly because of their higher cognitive abilities.
- Loyal. They will always put you first before themselves.
- Affectionate. They are well-loved because they are affectionate. Be prepared to pet them all day long.
- Friendly. These dogs mix well with other pets and with people. They are trusting.
- Dignified. These dogs may be naughty at times, but they are very dignified.
- Active and powerful. They are energetic and need regular training and exercise. They need at least one walk every day.
Husky German Shepherd Mix Temperament
Husky German Shepherd Mix dogs possess traits of both German Shepherds and Siberian Huskies. They are the ultimate dogs!
They are known for their energy. They get bored and sometimes mischievous when they lack physical and mental stimulation. As mentioned before, this hybrid is also intelligent, loyal, playful, and very trainable. A Husky German Shepherd Mix is an alpha dog and may get somewhat aggressive or do naughty things if its owner is not firm.
This hybrid’s pack-leader and bossy behavior will surface given the chance. So, handling this powerful dog can be a real challenge if you don’t train and socialize them properly. On the other hand, your dog may inherit the calm and gentle behavior of the Siberian Husky. A Husky German Shepherd Mix with this demeanor can be clingy with their owner.
This hybrid loves to take part in various activities with you. Some owners let their friends engage in fieldwork, herding, and the likes, but these dogs will also have fun playing outdoors, jogging, walking, and hiking. While the Husky German Shepherd mix is friendly, warming up to other dogs and strangers may take time.
White German Shepherd Husky Mix Grooming Tips & Tricks
- Coat grooming
A fluffy German Shepherd Husky mix means shedding. This means you’ll have to groom your pooch more often to keep the thick coat healthy and to remove dead fur. And since the coat is super fluffy, it mats and tangles easily. So, regular grooming of your dog is necessary to prevent matting.
Brush your German Shepherd Husky mix several times a week. On top of this, take your dog to a qualified groomer every two months. Remember, start grooming your pups from an early age so they get used to the process. This will make things much easier simpler for you and your dog, especially if it’s a German Shepherd Husky mix.
Getting a German Shepherd Husky mix means blankets of fur, so don’t be disappointed when you see your favorite clothes and everything else to be covered in fur. This dog isn’t a good choice if you or some members of your family have allergies.
- Bathing
A German Shepherd Husky mix tends to smell like wet garments that haven’t been dried. Bathe your dog when needed. Avoid using a strong shampoo and use one that will help maintain their fur’s natural oils. Don’t bathe your pup too often as this can wash these oils away.
- Ear check
Wax may build up in the ears of German Shepherd Husky mixes fairly often. You should clean their ears carefully using a dog-friendly cleaning solution and cotton balls or cotton buds. This will keep the ear canal clean and reduce ear odors.
Your dog can pick up ticks when he’s outside. These ticks usually attach to the dog’s ear. Remove these parasites in their entirety to reduce discomfort and risk of infection. If you don’t feel comfortable with this process, you can always visit a professional groomer.
- Dental hygiene
The dental hygiene of your German Shepherd Husky mix is also an important part of their grooming process. We recommend that you brush your dog’s teeth regularly, about 2 to 3 times a week, to reduce the risk of periodontal disease. Also, this dog needs high-quality dry food to keep its gums healthy and strong.
- Nail grooming
In addition to the abovementioned grooming requirements, also make sure that the nails of your German Shepherd Husky mix are trimmed or groomed regularly. This activities is often stressful for the dog. Ask a professional groomer to train you in properly clipping or trimming your dog’s nails. If you’re not comfortable to do this on your own, you can ask a groomer to do this for you regularly.
German Shepherd Mixed With Husky Health Issues & Concerns
Generally, hybrids are healthier compared to purebred dogs. This is because new genes are introduced to the existing pool, strengthening and widening it. However, even a hybrid dog like a German Shepherd mixed with Husky can inherit health conditions from one (or both) of their parents. This hybrid lives between 10 to 13 years, and during this lifespan, they can develop different health issues.
Let’s check out some of the health problems of a Husky German Shepherd Mix. These include:
- Elbow and hip dysplasia. Problem in the formation of the joints, which usually results into painful arthritis.
- Juvenile cataracts. The opacity of the lens of the eyes of the dog, which often causes blindness.
- Corneal dystrophy The accumulation of abnormal materials in the cornea, causing visual impairment.
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). This happens in the twilight years, with symptoms including night blindness, dilated pupils, inability to see in bright light.
- Chronic Degenerative Radiculomyopathy (CDR). This is degenerative ailment in the nerves which control the dog’s hind legs.
- Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV). Bloating of the stomach, which results in the stomach twisting around itself.
- Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI). Failure to produce enough enzymes necessary for digesting meals.
- Von Willebrand’s Disease (vWD). Excessive bleeding caused by a defective platelet functioning.
- Cancer. Cancer is prevalent in this hybrid.
- Anal furunculosis. A painful infection of the dog’s anus.
- Panosteitis. This is an inflammatory bone disease.
- Allergies. German Shepherd Huskies are particularly at risk of airborne, contact, and food allergies.
- Epilepsy. A neurological disorder causing uncontrolled seizures and loss of consciousness. This is perhaps the most frightening thing that can happen to this dog.
- Others. Impaired thyroid function, dwarfism, footpad disorders, nasal cavity tumors, and eczema
German Shepherd Mix With Husky Food Recommendations
In terms of its dietary needs, the strong and athletic Husky German Shepherd Mix requires a high-protein diet. Make sure the food meets the following characteristics:
- Provide a minimum of 25% protein in grain-based foods.
- Provide a minimum of 30% protein in grain-free foods.
- Provide a diet that is rich in essential vitamins and minerals.
- Be careful with foods that contain common allergens such as lamb and egg
- Give your dog supplements depending on the age of the mix.
- German Shepherd Mixes are picky eaters, so look for a brand that matches the needs of your dog and try to stick with it.
- These dogs have a high risk for digestive diseases. So, you must ask your vet for recommendations.
Give your dog the best care you can and they’ll reciprocate with lots of love. The first step is to provide them with balanced nutrition by making sure you opt for best dry dog food, which you can also find in Wellness Core Dog Food, Dog For Dog Food, or Nutra Thrive dog food supplement. Don’t go anywhere close to the worst dry dog food as it doesn’t contain much nutritional value.
If you need more suggestions for your canine’s diet, scan through best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food and see if any suits your pup’s needs. Prior to making any change in their diet plan, consult with your vet.
If your buddy is older, try to get any formula from the best senior dry dog food list that will help extend their lifespan. Puppy pups have a bit different diet requirements and you can find the top-quality food for your little companions in the best puppy food brands list.
Husky Mixed With German Shepherd Exercise Requirements
Do Husky and German Shepherd mix dogs need lots of training and exercise? The answer is a YES, YES, YES! Their parents are working dogs, so they have unparalleled energy and can engage in physical activities without getting tired. What they need is a regular exercise to maintain and improve their strength and endurance. You’ll need to spend a great deal of time with your dog outdoors every day at the very least.
Your dog needs some off-leash time. Dog parks and fenced yards are great places for this. A Husky mixed with German Shepherd that is free to play stays happy. Playing also mentally stimulates the dog. They get bored when they don’t get enough exercise, and they tend to display undesirable behaviors. They will increasingly become frustrated and use their intelligence to do naughty things around your house: digging up, chewing on furniture and other things, non-stop howling, and trying to escape.
Even when you’re tired, you have to find time to exercise the dog. What stimulation or exercise your dogs need depends upon their motivation and temperament. If they’re more Siberian Husky than German Shepherd, they might prefer running for hours daily over learning commands. But if they’re more German Shepherd, they’re more happy with doing advanced work activities; they tend to enjoy things that give them a s sense of purpose.
German Shepherd and Husky Mix Training Suggestions
A fairly intelligent breed interested in learning and in caring for their owner, a German Shepherd and Husky Mix is relatively easy to train. Not properly trained, these dogs can acquire habits that make the owners clench their teeth pull their hair out. From howling too much to knocking things over to chewing on shoes, there are many things you must keep your dog from doing.
A German Shepherd and Husky Mix is very sensitive to vocal commands, making the training process more efficient and much easier. Start obedience training at an early age to prevent annoying habits from developing, and so that you and your pup both can live a happy life together.
German Shepherd Husky Mixes And Families
German Shepherd Husky Mixes can be good with children and with other pets if they’re well-socialized and well-trained from an early age. However, it has a predatory nature, and without proper socialization or training, it might get inro trouble with rodent-type pets or even cats.
They can also be extremely overprotective of children and other members of the family. If they feel that the humans they love are in danger, they may attack strangers, so watch them for this kind of behavior. We all know that every dog is unique, so you must socialize them correctly to prevent any untoward incidents.
Known to be intelligent and extremely loyal, the German Shepherd Husky Mix is a fun loving, sweet, and pleasant dog. It is great service or companion dog for the family. However, this dog isn’t suitable for families who don’t live in spacious home, don’t have active lifestyle, or can’t take the dog out for a walk at least once daily.
Siberian Husky German Shepherd Mix Price
The price of a Siberian Husky German Shepherd puppy is one of the defining factors for many owners who need a large breed. Getting a dog with a Siberian Husky or a German Shepherd descent can break the bank for many first-time owners.
Lucky for them, the Siberian Husky German Shepherd is a relatively affordable dog. You can get one from a trustworthy breeder for $400 to $500. This is much cheaper than the $1000 or more price tag of Siberian Huskies and German Shepherds.
Be warned, though. Don’t get a Siberian Husky German Shepherd puppy with price that is too good to be true. Proper breeding costs a lot of money when it comes to veterinary care, health screening, vaccinations, flea treatments, deworming, and many other procedures to ensure that the puppy is healthy.
Not Sure You Want A German Shepherd? You Need To Check Out Alpha Paw Veterinarians Tell-All Breed Guides:
Check out our other popular breed guides:
Best Dog Food for German Shepherd Husky Mix
The best dog food for a German Shepherd Husky mix should cater to their unique blend of energy, size, and nutritional requirements. Opt for a high-quality, large-breed formula that features real meat as the primary ingredient, providing the protein necessary for their active lifestyle and muscle development.
- REAL MEAT FIRST: Blue Buffalo foods always feature real meat as the first ingredient; High-quality protein from real chicken helps your dog build and maintain healthy muscles; Plus they contain wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit
- FOR ADULT DOGS: BLUE Life Protection Formula adult dog food contains essential proteins and carbohydrates to help meet the energy needs of adult dogs, and features omega 3 & 6 fatty acids to promote a shiny coat and healthy skin
- ANTIOXIDANT-RICH LIFESOURCE BITS: A precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support immune system health, life stage needs and a healthy oxidative balance
- A NATURAL DOG FOOD: BLUE dry dog food is made with the finest natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins and minerals; BLUE contains NO chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives
- Essential, high-quality protein for healthy muscle development, and carbs for energy for an active life.
- Calcium, phosphorus and essential vitamins for strong bones and teeth.
- Glucosamine is added for joint health and mobility support.
- Vitamins, chelated minerals and antioxidants contribute to your pup's immune system health.
- No corn, wheat, soy or chicken (or poultry) by-product meals.
- Made in the USA by a family-owned company using quality ingredients from trusted domestic and global sources.
- With real pasture-raised beef protein as the #1 ingredient, this recipe helps support bones, joints, and lean, strong muscles.
- Beef protein provides energy and muscle building blocks, omega fatty acids promote skin and coat health, and superfood fruits like blueberries and oranges offer vitamins and minerals.
- Each serving includes species-specific K9 strain proprietary probiotics, plus antioxidants and prebiotics to help support healthy digestion, immune system health, and overall wellness.
- Made without corn, wheat, artificial flavors, or colors.
(FAQs) about German Shepherd Husky mixes:
What is a German Shepherd Husky mix?
A German Shepherd Husky mix, also known as a “Gerberian Shepsky,” is a crossbreed resulting from the mating of a German Shepherd with a Siberian Husky. This mix combines the distinctive traits of both parent breeds.
What is the size and appearance of German Shepherd Husky mixes?
German Shepherd Husky mixes are typically medium to large-sized dogs with a sturdy build. They may inherit the German Shepherd’s strong physique and the Husky’s distinctive coat markings.
What is the temperament of German Shepherd Husky mixes?
These mixes are known for their intelligence, energy, and strong work ethic. They may exhibit a protective instinct, combining the German Shepherd’s guarding qualities with the Husky’s friendly demeanor.
How much exercise do German Shepherd Husky mixes need?
German Shepherd Husky mixes are highly active and require regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Daily walks, vigorous play, and activities that engage their intelligence are crucial for their well-being.
Does German Shepherd Husky mix well with children and other pets?
When properly socialized, German Shepherd Husky mixes can be excellent family pets. They are generally good with children and may get along with other pets, showcasing their adaptable and social nature.
What is the grooming routine for German Shepherd Husky mixes?
Grooming requirements depend on the coat type inherited from both parent breeds. Regular brushing, especially during shedding seasons, and attention to ear cleaning are essential for their overall well-being.
Do German Shepherd Husky mixes have specific health concerns?
They may inherit health issues from both German Shepherds and Huskies. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for preventive care, and potential concerns may include hip dysplasia and eye conditions.
How trainable are German Shepherd Husky mixes?
German Shepherd Husky mixes are generally intelligent and trainable, but they may have a strong independent streak. Positive reinforcement methods, consistency, and early socialization contribute to their well-behaved nature.
What is the lifespan of German Shepherd Husky mixes?
The average lifespan of German Shepherd Husky mixes is typically around 10 to 14 years, with proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary attention.
What are some considerations for potential German Shepherd Husky mix owners?
Prospective owners should be prepared for an active and intelligent companion. Understanding the needs of both parent breeds, including exercise requirements, grooming, and potential health issues, is crucial for providing a happy and suitable home for a German Shepherd Husky mix.
References:
- http://gerberianshepsky.com/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/German_Shepherd
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Husky
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dog
- Coile, Caroline. German Shepherds For Dummies. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 2009.
- Hoppendale, George and Asia Moore. Gerberian Shepsky: Gerberian Shepsky Complete Owners Manual. Plano, TX: PESA Publishing, 2018.
- Johnson, C. Mark. German-Husky Dog. Lexington, SC: Big White Dog Publishing, LLC., 2016.
- Long, Lory. The Siberian Husky. Neptune, NJ: T.F.H. Publications, 2007.
- May, Isaac. Gerberian Shepsky Training Guide. Scotts Valley, CA: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, 2016.
- Morgan, Dianne. The German Shepherd Dog. Interpet, 2007
- Morrison, John. Gerberian Shepsky Activities. Global Pet Care International, 2016.
