German Shepherd dogs and Siberian Husky dogs are two of the most popular breeds in the world. It is more than just their furry coat and strong physique, but their stunning characteristics that make people fall in love! And if you're going to choose between the two, which should you take home? Well, that's tough!
What if you get a combination of these two amazing breeds? A German Shepherd Husky mix, perhaps? Albeit it is a beautiful breed that you may not or may have heard before, it takes a whole new responsibility that requires learning and constant effort in giving your dog a happy life. But, how?
Also known as German Husky, Gerberian Shepsky, Siberian Shepherd or Husky Shepherd, this hybrid takes after the characteristics and behavior of both of its parents. If you're familiar with any of these breeds, you'll at least have an idea how to care for a German Husky. Otherwise, it could be unpredictable.
If you own a German Husky or planning to take one home, you must first know all the vital facts about their behavior, grooming, diet, exercise or training, and potential health issues. And it's a great luck you dropped by! We'll give you a glimpse of what it's like to live with a German Husky.
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Physical Appearance
COAT : Just like German Shepherds and Siberian Huskies, German Husky dogs also have a thick, straight, and furry coat that consists of the outer and inner layer. It can be short, long, or medium in length like what most German Shepherds have. When it comes to coat color, it can be a combination of any of these colors such as gray, light brown, different shades of brown and gold, white, gray, cream, and red.
There's no uniformity in color or length. A German Husky can take it after one breed or the other. And because of its double and soft coat, it serves as a protection to their skin and mostly against the cold weather.
WEIGHT: This hybrid is lined up together with the medium and large-sized dogs as what German Shepherds and Siberian Huskies are. They usually weigh 45 to 88 pounds.
HEIGHT: German Huskies can be about 20 to 25 inches tall. But take note that the weight, height, and the overall physical growth and development of your dog depend on how much food you give, the health condition, and the diet you maintain.
EYES: Typically, their eyes are two-toned that can be similar or contrast in both eyes. The color can take after a Siberian Husky's eyes that are usually in shades of blue or gray or a German Shepherd's that are usually in shades of brown.
BUILD: This breed usually displays muscular and strong body that makes them fit for obstacles, service tasks, exercises, and other physical activities.
Behavior
1. Calm and Gentle
They may have the appearance that most people can fear of, these lovely German Husky dogs are calm, gentle, and friendly. They love to interact with people and other dogs, although it depends on the training, socialization, and exposure they had when they were younger.
2. Intelligent
They've got the beautiful appearance and the brains! As what their parents are known for, these Gerberian Shepsky dogs are intelligent that allow them to be very responsive to basic and service commands, training, and exercise. Unlike the Show Line German Shepherds, their relative breed, they can be trained as guard dogs, service, and working dogs. They are quick to learn new commands and tricks!
On the other hand, their intelligence allows them to determine whether you're a strong leader and in charge. Once they sense you're not, you can expect them to be pretty stubborn towards you. However, the situation can change as long as you also learn to be firm and assertive. Don't worry!
3. Active and Playful
Gerberian Shepsky dogs are a-hundred-percent playful and active! Their enthusiasm enables them to engage in different physical activities and play around with their furry parents and other dogs, too. As what most dogs are, they are naturally playful and won't miss a toy to chew and snuggle in!
4. Protective
Despite their soft side, they also can be protective of their owners. German Shepherds are naturally born as protectors, so your Gerberian Shepsky might acquire this characteristic as well. Although it's nice to have your furry pal to protect you at all times, it can develop to overprotectiveness which might push them to be aggressive toward other people and dogs. If you don't resolve this as soon as possible, it may cause behavioral issues later on.
Proper Diet
The growth and development of your dog depend on the type and amount of food you give. When it comes to Gerberian Shepsky dogs, it is not that really difficult to feed them. Even though they can just dive into every food you give, it is important that you provide only the high-quality dog food to ensure its good health.
Since they are energetic and active like German Shepherds, food that's rich in protein would be the best choice. You can try giving the best dog food for German Shepherd dogs as they are flavored and mixed with the substantial nutrients like protein, fatty acids, and minerals. Gerberian Shepskies also belong to the family of large dog breeds. Hence, the amount and type of food are more likely the same.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
Proper Grooming
Gerberian Shepskies need regular grooming. Their soft and fluffy coat needs to be maintained with a regular bath, trim, and brushing. They also shed seasonally, so don't be surprised to see a few strands of your dog's fur everywhere!
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
Exercise and Training
Just like German Shepherds, they are very active and playful. They love to go out, run through the fields, or play fetch with their owners. They are fast-learners, too! They can easily respond to basic commands and tricks. However, it still depends on the training you give or if you've trained your dog long enough to let them run around the park without a leash.
Another thing to remember is the time you should spend with your dog. Gerberian Shepskies can't take being left alone for long periods of time. This energetic hybrid needs to exhaust all its energy out through exercising and other physical activities. Otherwise, it can lead to behavioral issues such as excessive barking and chewing different kinds of stuff. It may cause stress and depression as well.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
Potential Health Issues
Despite our utmost efforts to keep our dogs healthy, health problems are inevitable. As for Gerberian Shepskies, they are also prone to different health issues that you should be aware of.
- Ear Infection
- Food allergy
- Allergy caused by chemicals
- Bloat
- Elbow and hip dysplasia
- Epilepsy
- Endocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency
- Juvenile cataract
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Cancer
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
Life Span
Gerberian Shepskies or German Huskies has an average lifespan of 13 years. However, how much your dog can live depends on the care and treatment you provide all throughout its life.
Conclusion
Living a life with a Gerberian Shepsky can be an exciting and fun journey. But if you're having a hard time now or still prepping to care for one, it is best to know all its characteristics, grooming, diet, and health issues. As what you've learned, Gerberian Shepskies require a lot of exercise. So, you should make some time with your dog for interactive games and activities.
With the responsibilities that come along with it, problems may arise at times. But if you give your best efforts to learn more about its life and look after your dog, there's no doubt that you and your furry pal will have a joyful life together!
June Frazier
Hello, Everyone! My name is June, and I live in North Dakota with my dog, Toby.Dogs are my passion, which had led me to dedicate my life to caring for and training dogs, a life that I began to lead as soon as I graduated high school. With a wealth of knowledge to pass on, I decided to make this blog and share my experience with my fellow dog lovers!
