For dog lovers seeking a loyal, active companion with a touch of the exotic, the German Shepherd Husky mix has become an increasingly popular hybrid breed. Combining the intelligence and work ethic of the German Shepherd with the friendly, free-spirited nature of the Siberian Husky, these pups inherit some of the best traits from two amazing purebred lines. Often referred to as a Gerberian Shepsky, these designer dogs make for engaging family pets and are highly trainable for various activities and sports.
Appearance
The German Shepherd Husky’s looks are one of its biggest draws, blending the striking features of its parent breeds. Their size can vary, but generally they are large dogs inheriting the substantial build of the German Shepherd, typically weighing 45-88 pounds and standing 20-25 inches tall depending on the sex and which parent breed is more dominant.
Their double coat can show a variety of color combinations like black and tan, red and black, or white and grey, sometimes with attractive face markings. They usually have the longer, thicker fur of the Husky, coupled with upright ears and a longer muzzle reminiscent of the German Shepherd. The Shepsky often has a striking wolf-like appearance, adding to the appeal of this hybrid’s unique looks.
Temperament
Both German Shepherds and Huskies were originally bred as working dogs, giving the Shepsky a high energy level and strong desire for activity and having a job to do. With their intelligence inherited from the German Shepherd side, they are highly trainable and thrive when given activities and tasks that channel their energy and obedience drive in a positive way.
From the Husky side they get a friendly, social temperament that makes them great companions for active families. Though they can be initially reserved toward strangers, early and continuing socialization helps them become more outgoing. The Shepsky’s protective heredity from the German Shepherd also makes them good watchdogs.
Shepskies can be stubborn at times, so positive reinforcement-based training starting from puppyhood is essential. With proper exercise, mental stimulation and firm but loving handling from owners, these dogs make incredibly devoted and engaging family companions.
Grooming and Care
The German Shepherd Husky mix is a heavy year-round shedder thanks to its thick double coat. Weekly brushing with a slicker brush is an absolute must, along with more frequent brushing when they shed their undercoat heavily in the Spring and Fall. Baths every 6-8 weeks also help control shedding.
These are very high energy dogs who require a substantial amount of daily exercise in the form of vigorous walks, runs, hikes or active outdoor playtime and activities. A bored Shepsky will often become destructive, barky or seek out other outlets for its energy like digging or chewing if its exercise needs are not met.
Mental stimulation is just as important, through training, interactive toys, games and potentially involving them in dog sports and activities like agility, flyball or herding that channel their working heritage. Training should start at puppyhood and be firmly reinforced, without harsh methods that can damage their confidence.
With their coats, exercise needs and occasional stubbornness, Shepskies do require a committed owner able to provide plenty of quality time, attention and physical/mental exercise on a daily basis. For the right active family or owners, their friendly, intelligent and eager-to-please personalities make these hybrid dogs incredibly rewarding companions.
If the loyal, energetic and strikingly unique German Shepherd Husky mix sounds like a perfect fit for your family, be sure to contact the expert breeders at German Shepherd Puppies NC. They take immense pride in breeding and raising some of the finest purebred German Shepherd dogs, adhering to the highest standards to produce healthy, even-tempered puppies with amazing potential as both working dogs and cherished companions. Don’t settle for anything less than the world-class pups from German Shepherd Puppies NC.
Finding a Reputable Shepsky Breeder
As designer hybrids have grown in popularity, it’s more important than ever to find an ethical, reputable breeder when looking for a German Shepherd Husky mix puppy. Good breeders carefully plan litters by selecting and screening parent dogs for proper temperament and health.
Do plenty of research and avoid breeders who operate puppy mills, produce multiple mixed litters, or cannot provide documentation on the health testing and lineages of the parent breeds. Responsible breeders perform genetic screening tests for conditions common to German Shepherds and Huskies.
The best Shepsky breeders are knowledgeable about both parent breeds, follow breeding best practices, raise litters in their home, and socialize puppies from birth. They should happily answer your questions, allow you to meet parent dogs, provide references, and be transparent about their breeding operations.
Be wary of breeders who seem primarily motivated by profit, produce excessive litters, cannot explain their breeding philosophy and process, or offer puppies at rock-bottom prices that seem too good to be true. With some patience and research, you can find an ethical source for a well-bred German Shepherd Husky mix.
If the loyal, energetic and strikingly unique German Shepherd Husky mix sounds like a perfect fit for your family, be sure to contact the expert breeders at German Shepherd Puppies NC. They take immense pride in breeding and raising some of the finest purebred German Shepherd dogs, adhering to the highest standards to produce healthy, even-tempered sable puppies with amazing potential as both working dogs and cherished companions. Don’t settle for anything less than the world-class pups from German Shepherd Puppies NC.
