When you mix together an intelligent German Shepherd and a majestic Siberian Husky, you get a mix also known as a Shepsky or a Gerberian Shepsky. Most dog owners hope to get an energetic and loyal medium-sized dog that inherits the best qualities of both parents. But how long can you expect your German Shepherd Husky mix to live? Let's dig into this article to find out.
Shepsky Principal Characteristics
- Height: 20-25 inches
- Weight: 40-80 pounds
- Lifespan: 10-14 years
- Activity levels: High
- Shedding levels: High
- Temperament: intelligent, eager to please
History Of The Shepsky
As we briefly noted earlier, “Shepsky” is a name for a dog that is a mix of the German Shepherd and Siberian Husky breeds. The German Shepherd has a very forceful bite, and they are often mischaracterized as aggressive and likely to harm humans. However, while German Shepherds are responsible for a large number of canine attacks on humans, this is largely due to their popularity as pets and how abundant they are rather than any natural, breed-specific aggression. German Shepherds are actually considered great family pets, and they are known to be very good with children, though they can also be somewhat overprotective.
The Siberian Husky, in contrast, comes from Northeastern Asia where they were bred by the Chukchi people of Siberia to pull sleds. These dogs do very well in cold climates, and they were introduced to Alaska around 1900 as part of the Alaskan Nome Gold Rush. While they are energetic, friendly, and excellent with children, they are also troublemakers if not trained and socialized properly.
What Are Crossbred Dogs?
Crossbred dogs, sometimes called designer dogs, are dogs that have been intentionally bred by mixing two or more recognized breeds. It is not a term for dogs bred accidentally or without purebred ancestors. One of the advantages of purebred dogs is that it is relatively easy to predict their size, appearance, and temperament. While years of experience has given breeders a pretty good idea of what to expect with certain crossbreed dogs, the way that the characteristics of the two different breeds combine can be unpredictable and they do not always “breed true.” One of the advantages of crossbred dogs is that they can be less prone to inherited genetic defects as there is more variation in their genetic pools.
Gerberian Shepsky Appearance
As both German Shepherds and Siberian Huskies are medium-sized dogs with a wolf-like appearance, you can expect similar traits from their offspring. German Shepherds tend to be considered medium-to-large-sized dogs. Males typically measure 24 to 26 inches in height at the withers, and the females are usually a bit smaller at 22 to 24 inches. Siberian Huskies are a bit smaller, measuring between 19 and 24 inches and weighing between 35 and 60 pounds on average.
As a result, you can expect Shepskies to be around the smaller range for German Shepherds, with males ranging from 22 to 25 inches and females ranging from 20 to 24 inches in height. When it comes to their weight, males tend to be between 50 to 80 pounds, while females weigh a bit less at 40 to 70 pounds.
Gerberian Shepsky Temperament
German Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs, and they are also highly motivated to please, which makes them one of the most trainable dog breeds out there. Siberian Huskies are also very intelligent, but they are far more independent. They have been bred to make challenging decisions while running across dangerous arctic territories, so problem-solving is a necessary skill.
As a result, while your Shepsky will almost certainly be a very intelligent dog, they might be a bit more troublesome to train than a German Shepherd. Some offspring might inherit their Husky parent's need for constant stimulation, which can make them escape artists. Alternatively, they might choose to entertain themselves by digging or chewing.
Remember, proper socialization training can go a long way when it comes to ensuring that they play well with others regardless of their temperament. Neither parent breed tends to bark excessively, but your Shepsky will get vocal if they want to alert you to a threat.
Caring For A German Shepherd Husky Mix
Shepskies tend to be highly trainable, so an experienced dog owner should be able to train them at home using basic positive reinforcement training. However, they aren't necessarily recommended for first-time owners, since their size and strength can make them difficult to handle if something does go wrong. They are relatively large dogs and tend to have a lot of energy, which means they aren't ideal for apartment living or being left alone in small spaces.
Shepskies do best when they have a large backyard where they can spend their energy. Remember, they can be escape artists, which means they need a space that is securely fenced. Fences at least six feet tall are recommended.
In addition to having plenty of space, Shepskies need a lot of exercise. They should be taken outside at least twice a day for a minimum of 30-60 minutes at a time. Dog parks where they can run around off-leash are ideal, as it lets them stretch their legs and burn off excess energy. Just make sure they have been properly socialized before letting them loose.
These dogs enjoy human companionship, so they won't like to be left at home for long periods of time. They are not ideal pets for people who spend most of the week in the office or traveling for work. Expect your Shepsky to engage in destructive behavior when they are feeling the stress of abandonment.
Shepsky Health Concerns
Shepskies have a relatively long lifespan for dogs of their size, and you can expect them to live for around 10 to 14 years. While they tend to be healthier than their purebred parents, there are a few common health conditions to look out for if you're considering adopting one of these dogs.
Shepskies can develop joint conditions, particularly in their elbows and hips, which can lead to pain and discomfort moving as they age. Adequate exercise and an orthopedic bed that allows them to take the pressure off their joints are both useful tools in preventing these issues.
This unique crossbreed can also be prone to developing eye conditions such as canine glaucoma, corneal dystrophy, juvenile cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. Losing at least some of their eyesight in later life is a common concern.
German Shepherd Husky mixes are also slightly more susceptible to developing epilepsy than most other breeds, though the condition is still relatively rare. Medications exist to help manage this condition.
The Shepsky's big ears mean they may also develop ear infections on a relatively frequent basis. This can be prevented with regular cleaning and maintenance.
Gerberian Shepsky FAQs
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How much are Gerberian Shepskies worth?
You might be able to find a Gerberian Shepsky in a local shelter to adopt for a small fee, or you can opt to find a dedicated Shepsky breeder. -
Do Gerberian Shepskies shed a lot?
Yes, German Shepherd Husky mixes shed a lot, and there is no getting around it. -
Do German Shepherd Husky mixes smell?
While this varies, many Shepsky owners have noted that the dog doesn't have a typical musky “dog smell.” -
Do Shepskies get cold?
Siberian Huskies were bred to deal with extreme cold, and German Shepherds also have a thick coat to deal with colder temperatures. -
What is an Alusky?
An Alusky is a mix between a Siberian Husky and an Alaskan Malamute. -
What dog breeds are commonly mixed with Huskies?
As well as German Shepherds, you will find a number of other dog breeds that make a good mix with a Husky.
The Verdict On Shepskies
If you are looking for a fun and energetic dog that will make a great addition to a boisterous and adventurous family, then a German Shepherd Husky mix can be a great choice. Shepskies are very family-friendly pets that are loyal and highly trainable, but they also need lots of love and attention to keep them healthy and happy. They have a distinctive wolf-like appearance, but are far from aggressive and are generally very good with children. Remember that crossbreed dogs are always somewhat unpredictable in their appearance and temperament, so ensure that you meet the dog you plan on adopting first before deciding whether to add them to your family. Shepskies are best for people who have quite a bit of space for their dog to play and usually have someone to keep them company at home. You will enjoy training your Shepsky yourself if you have a bit of experience with dogs, but steer clear if you have allergies, as they are big shedders!
Do you have any experience raising a German Shepherd Husky mix? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below.
Keys to take away:
- German Shepherd Husky mixes, also known as Shepskies or Gerberian Shepskies, have a lifespan of 10-14 years.
- They have a wolf-like appearance and are highly intelligent and trainable.
- Shepskies need a lot of exercise and human companionship.
- They are prone to joint conditions, eye conditions, epilepsy, and ear infections.
- Shepskies shed a lot and require regular grooming.
- Adoption from a shelter is recommended, but if buying from a breeder, expect to pay around $1,000.