If you think of owning one of these beautiful German Shepherd Husky crossbreeds, we guarantee you won’t be disappointed! This unique and energetic crossbreed—often called the “Gerberian Shepsky” is a cross between two extremely clever and devoted breeds: the Siberian husky and the German Shepherd were chosen for this study.
The above pairing creates fundamentals of an adventurous disposition, great obedience, and high intensity within each dog. Nevertheless, this gorgeous breed, the German Shepherd Husky mix, has some exploration and traits. Read through this blog post to ensure that the newfound pet in your home has the best life possible.
The Striking Look of a German Shepherd husky mix
Depending on the parent breed, the cross between a German Shepherd and a Husky shall have the physique of either this German Shepherd or this Husky. We wish you to understand that Bichon Frise are medium to large dogs; on average, they weigh 45 to 80 pounds and have a shoulder height of 20 to 25 inches.
They have a muscular build, savage large incisors, brute wolf-like foreheads and erect ears, thus presenting an impression of constant alertness and genuine sentimentality. Eye colors, too, may vary; they may possess gunmetal blue, brown or different colors in the same subject as in Huskies. They have an advanced skin coat, which can either be short/or medium length; skin coat colors range from black, white, brown, or grey.
Temperament: What to Expect in Personality
Some appealing personalities of Gerberian Shepskies are obedience, protective nature, intelligence, loyalty, alertness, bravery, and others. Like most of their parent breeds, they are very trainable and playful and make great family dogs. However, they are also very active, requiring a lot of exercise, playtime, and mental work.
They are loyal to their family, but their Husky gene sometimes makes them stubborn. This breed is very friendly, though proper socialization should be commenced as early as possible so they don’t become dominant or overly aggressive. When trained adequately and socialized properly, Gerberian Shepskies become excellent, affectionate pets and are perfect, especially for families with children or other pets.
Exercise Requirements: Keeping Your Dog Happy and Healthy
One thing you must know about Gerberian Shepsky is their high energy level; therefore, if you plan to have this dog, you’ll need to work hard. This dog breed is highly active and should be allowed to travel outside perhaps 1-2 hours daily. They may lack adequate exercise and, therefore, become bored and may cause havoc by chewing on something or digging into another object.
For their part, German Spitzers need to spend some time outside the house, and they can walk, run, or play the game of fetch. These Gerberian Shepskies are also very fond of running, so a large, safe territory and playing outdoors will be a huge benefit. If you can’t do that, the next best thing would be to take them to a dog park or any safe open space where they can have a good run. Further, mental workouts such as toys with challenging-looking puzzles or an abbreviated shape elderly training can sharpen their brains.
Training: Setting a Strong Foundation
Gerberian Shepskies are very intelligent, and at the same time, they possess unique tempers and character. They require and appreciate nothing but positive reinforcement-based training sessions. To build uniformity, simple obedience training is given early to make them good adult dogs.
These dogs are well-motivating and highly trainable crossbreeds but can sometimes become challenging during their teenage years. Commands that they teach include Sit, stay, and come, plus always make it a game using treats and toys. Despite mixed heritages, Shepskies nail clear structure and regimen; with time, they can learn complicated commands and participate in agility and obedience shows.
Socialization: Early Exposure to Different Situations
German Shepherds defend their families; likewise, for this mix, early socialization is important for Huskies, too. Socialize your Gerberian Shepsky at an early age to ensure that they gain a balanced personality.
Friendly contact with other dogs and people will also prevent the development of a protective or suspicious attitude. Here, you can begin with early classes of puppy socialization, slowly acclimating them to different surroundings and using positive reinforcement when they are uncomfortable in strangers’ company.
Grooming Needs: Managing the Double Coat
One thing all new Gerberian Shepsky owners need to know: these dogs shed—a lot! A two-layered coat protects the dog from harsh climates and hot environments, but those layers must be groomed often. Experience high amounts of shedding, which can be tremendous and even better in the spring and fall seasons.
Bathe your Gerberian Shepsky at least twice a week if they have free, flowy fur to help with the shedding about the house. It will take approximately 5-10 minutes to brush them; you might brush your cat daily during the shedding season. Bathe them only once every few months because more frequent baths will rake the coat of their natural oils. Ensure it checks their ears for any accumulation, trim their nails when necessary, and brush their teeth for proper health conditions.
Health Concerns: Common Issues and Preventive Care
The crossbreed of the German Shepherd and Husky are like other dogs and are prone to certain illnesses. Some of the more common concerns include:
- Hip Dysplasia: This is a hereditary hampered joint illness that is experienced specifically in the hip, causing pain and reduced movement.
- Eye Issues: These breeds tend to develop such diseases as cataracts therefore, the eyes should be given special attention.
- Degenerative Myelopathy: It can also sometimes destroy certain sections of the spinal cord, which will immobilize the dog; the worst, it can only crawl about.
Some of these diseases are curable through routine check-ups, proper nutrition, and observing their weight, which should also be checked. Adopting a responsible breeder who elects to have the breeding dogs’ health screened is also a way of avoiding such disorders.
Diet and Nutrition: Feeding Your Gerberian Shepsky Right
Being a German Shepherd Husky mix, an active breed, requires a quality diet to be active and healthy. Choose foods containing proteins such as meat as their first ingredient, and avoid dog-containing corn or soy since they cause digestive upsets. Protein benefits this dog breed because it retains its muscles and is active.
Gerberian Shepsky must also be fed according to their weight and activity level. Adult dogs are often fed twice a day, but be sure to ask your veterinarian how much food is best for your Dalmatian. Giving them enough clean water is also important, especially after working, exercising, or playing, to help them drink frequently.
Living Space: Ideal Environment for a Gerberian Shepsky
As for grooming, the Gerberian Shepskies may begin to shed in warm weather, but they do okay in apartments, provided there is enough exercise. However, they do well in homes with large spaces for exercising and playing. This breed of dog needs a fenced yard to play around in, as this allows them to exercise. Also, note that Huskies are great escape artists, so your yard should be well-fenced and gated.
Those living in the apartment should ensure they involve the baby in daily exercise and activities that help challenge the baby’s brain. Suppose you don’t take a German Shepherd Husky mix for a walk or allow him to play or exercise his brain frequently. In that case, you will frequently realize he is bored and soon becomes anxious and may engage in undesirable behaviors.
Final Thoughts
A German Shepherd Husky mix could be one of the most rewarding family decisions since it guarantees your pet’s loyalty, affection, and numerous exciting experiences. With an insight into their characters and requirements, it will help you deliver a good life for your new pet. Proper exercise, training this breed, and love will give you a great companion in your Gerberian Shepsky for many years.
