Gerberian Shepsky
German Shepherd X Siberian Husky
Average Height: 50-65cm
Average Weight: 21-40kg
Activity Level: High
Temperament: Intelligent, Work-Oriented, Devoted, Energetic
Best Suited For: Active and Experienced Dog Owners
Lifespan: 10 to 13 Years
Health Issues: Hip Dysplasia, Elbow Dysplasia, Digestive Issues Including Bloat, Corneal Dystrophy, Juvenile Cataracts, Keratitis, Epilepsy, Hypothyroidism, Cushing’s Disease, Anal Furunculosis, and Atopic Dermatitis
History
Newer to the canine kingdom, this hybrid dog is beloved for his intelligence, athleticism, and family-friendly nature.
However, Gerberian Shepsky mix dogs are not ideal for every owner. First time dog owners may find this energetic hybrid overwhelming, as will owners who do not have time to dedicate to training, socialization, exercise and mental stimulation.
We should also note that both German Shepherds and Huskies are bred as working dogs, so the German Shepherd Husky Mix is going to be pretty work-oriented. This means that this is a hybrid who requires lots of time, attention, exercise, and mental stimulation.
Temperament
Many Gerberian Shepsky lovers describe their dogs' as an active and playful breed. They are medium-large in size and full of energy. They hail from a long line of working parents which is why they often need jobs. Whether small or large they need to be needed.
Shepskies are pack dogs and need a pack leader to help guide them. Don't be surprised if they test the limits of your position in the pack and try to take control from time to time.
These dogs are incredibly intelligent and very high-energy. While these are some traits that can make them more difficult for less experienced dog owners, for the right owner these traits are a major bonus.
Upkeep
Your Gerberian Shepsky is going to need quite a bit of daily exercise each and every day to keep him happy, healthy and mentally sound.
The proper exercise for a Shepsky is going to include at least two walks a day for about 45 minutes to an hour each. The Shepsky is a hybrid dog that may also enjoy jogging, hiking, and even supervised swimming.
Along with routine exercise, the German Shepherd Husky mix will need free playtime in a securely fenced backyard. Very well socialised German Shepherd Husky mixes who get along well with other dogs may also enjoy playtime at a local dog park.
Training a Gerberian Shepsky is a practice that should begin from the moment you obtain your dog and continue on for the rest of his life. Since this mix is a dog of two working parent breeds, training will need to be carefully implemented to help harness any potential behavioural issues or excess energy into something positive.
Shepskies are prone to weight gain, and they have high energy levels. One hour of exercise per day is a good starting point. They usually have long, dense coats, and they're generally not recommended for people with allergies due to the fact they are very heavy shedders. These pups will require a few good brushes per week to remove loose hair.
What should I consider when purchasing a cross-breed?
It is important to remember that a crossbreed is not as predictable as a purebred dog. You don’t know which characteristics it will inherit from each of its parents. In the case of the Gerberian Shepsky this very much applies to the personality traits of the two breeds.
There have been an increasing number of health concerns about crossbreeds, not least because too many irresponsible breeders are cashing in on the crossbreed craze and selling the myth that crossbreeds are automatically healthier, so they don’t need to health test their dogs. This is not true. Whilst crossbreeds have a wider gene pool than pedigree dogs, any dog can become ill and it is important that you buy from a responsible breeder. If you buy a crossbreed you should check the health test results for both of the parents in the same way as you should for a pedigree dog.
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Owner Testimonial
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Articles we recommend…
Your Ultimate guide to the German Shepherd Husky Mix
Breed information sourced from: https://yourdogadvisor.com/german-shepherd-husky-mix/ & https://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/shepsky#/slide/1 & https://www.preloved.co.uk/blog/animals/advice-buying-pedigree-crossbreed/
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