German Shepherd Husky Mix: Facts, Temperament, and Care Guide

Gerberian Shepsky. It’s a mouth full, but we have to admit – it does have a certain ring to it. This sought after German Shepherd Husky Mix provides the best of both breeds – He’s strong and smart, with the independence of Huskies, and fierce loyalty of German Shepherds.

While the Shepherd Husky Mix is a friendly breed, and perfect for families with children, the German Shepherd genes make him a great guard dog.

Siberian Huskys are considered a medium sized working dog, while the German Shepherd is classified as a large herding dog who loves a job! The Gerberian Shepsky finds his place somewhere between the two, typically growing to an average height of 25 inches and weighing in at about 80 pounds. The females are a bit smaller at an average of 22 inches in height and 65 pounds.

Trying to decide if you’d like to add a mixed breed to your family? We’ve put together a comprehensive guide that details all you need to know – from history, to temperament and grooming – about the Gerbian Shepsky!

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To understand this active and loving mixed breed, we must first understand purebred Huskys and German Shepherds.

As we mentioned, the German Shepherd is known as a herding dog. They were developed in 1899 for herding and guarding sheep in Germany. They are America’s second favorite breed, right behind Labradors. The Husky is a working dog, first bred over 3000 years ago in Siberia. They arrived in Alaska in 1908 where they ran hard as sledding dogs and stole the hearts of locals with their goofy personalities.

No formal records document the first hybrid litter of Gerberian Huskys. It’s likely that the first group of puppies was actually an accident! But, with the surging popularity of designer breeds, this friendly and loyal German Shepherd/Husky mix is finding it’s way into homes across the world.

This large, highly active breed requires a high protein diet. Calorie requirements differ based on age, weight, activity level, and sex. For example, a quickly growing puppy requires more calories than an adult Shepsky and should eat food specifically formulated for puppies. This way, they’ll get all the proper nutrients and vitamins necessary for skeletal and muscle growth!

In contrast, active adult German Shepherd Husky mixes require about 1700-2400 calories, while less active and senior dogs only require 1300-1600 calories per day. To promote easy digestion, and avoid the dangers of bloat and volvulus associated with both breeds, it’s best to split the meals over at least two feeding times per day. As energetic carnivores, Shepkys thrive on a diet composed of no less than 22% protein.

A high quality food, formulated for large breeds is best. Remember to account for special treats in daily caloric needs!

Like we’ve mentioned, these playful guys love exercise and activities. Get the whole family together for a walk or run. Continuously switch up the route so your Shepsky never gets bored. Other recommendations include providing at least 2 hours a day of moderate to vigorous physical activity. They’ll be happiest in large, open spaces and unfortunately do not make great apartment dogs.

German Shepherd Husky mixes do best in an environment where they can play, run, and roam. While a large yard is ideal, even it isn’t enough for this highly active and energetic breed! Your new pet will be most content when able to participate in interactive activities like obstacle courses and challenging puzzles.

With lots of love and attention, your Gerberian Shepsky will settle into a nice routine of work and play. Be sure to snuggle up for plenty of cuddles at the end of a long day!

Like their purebred parents, German Shepherd Husky mixes may suffer from certain health issues due to their genes. When you purchase a puppy, your breeder should be happy to provide a detailed health screening of the parents. Conditions to look out for include Elbow/Hip Dysplasia, common to many large breeds, as well as Degenerative Eye Diseases like Cataracts. Joint Dysplasia causes the elbows and hips to develop abnormally, leading to pain and eventual loss of movement if left untreated. If caught early, the condition can be treated successfully with medication or corrective surgery. Cataracts, inherited from the Husky parent, are issues with the lens of the eye that will lead to decreased vision over time. If left untreated, your Gerberian Shepsky may become disoriented, confused, and even aggressive as he loses his ability to process his surroundings. Again, if caught early, this disease can be treated with medication or surgery.

And as mentioned, bloat and Gastric Dilatation Volvulus are common to German Shepherds. This condition causes the stomach to swell and twist around it self. The risk is passed on to your Shepsky and great care must be taken to avoid it! Simply remain attentive to how much and how often your pup is eating and you should be safe.

We just can’t get over those adorably erect ears! And, much like a wolf, the Shepsky mix possesses a strong snout and piercing eyes.

They may take on the brown eyes of a German Shepherd, or the blue/green eyes common to Huskies. They may even have two different colored eyes! Puppies with heterochromia are highly coveted and will cost more. But they are worth it – so gorgeous and unique!

Just like the eyes, Gerberian Shepsky coats may be a variety of colors based on which parent they most closely resemble. Common colors include white, gray, silver, tan, red, and the classic German Shepherd coat color – Sable!

Because the Husky originated as a sled dog, their coats are adapted for the cold climates of Siberia and Alaska. It’s a common misconception that Huskies can only live happy lives in Northern areas that frequently receive snow. However, they are double coated and may shed one coat to accommodate warm temperatures.

Your Shepsky will also have a double coat that requires twice weekly brushing sessions to promote proper shedding and skin health. Additionally, frequent full bathes are harmful to your German Sherpherd Husky mixes natural oils. This can lead to irritation and dry, itchy skin. Instead, only bath them when necessary with a gentle shampoo. Simply spot clean in between with a damp cloth, and use a non-toxic deodorizing spray if necessary!