Shepsky: All About German Shephard Husky Mix

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Updated on: 06/08/2023

German Shepherds are among the most affectionate and loyal dog breeds you can welcome into your home, so it is no surprise that the mixed Gerberian Shepsky breed is nothing short of a delight. The German Shephard Husky mix inherits the best qualities from both parents, including their energy, affection, loyalty, and work ethic – hence why they are so often used as working dogs and guard dogs.

This mix between German Shepherds and Siberian Husky, also sometimes referred to as a Siberian Shepherd, comes from parent breeds known as two purebred dogs. These parents’ designer dogs will often willingly obey gentle commands if appropriately trained. If you want a gentle, amazing, and the most intelligent dog, look no further than this mixed German Shepherd Husky breed.

As with any breed of dog, research what you are getting in for before inviting the pup into your home is always a good idea. Fortunately for you, we have compiled an all-you-need guide on German Shephard Husky mix dogs below!

Characteristics Table –

The following are the main characteristics shown by the Gerberian Shepsky:

Characteristic	Description
Height	20-24 inches.
Weight	50-90 pounds
Lifespan	10-12 years
Coat	Dense coat.
Colors	Black, red, cream, white, brown, red, blue.
Shedding	Lots.
Temperament	Loyal and loving.
Intelligence	High
Social skills	Very good with people.
Destructive	Can chew on things and eat food that is left out. More destructive when lonely.
Other issues	Separation anxiety
People skills	Loyal and loves to be given a job.
Children	Great with kids
Energy levels	Lots of energy – Needs lots of exercises

Breed History

Unlike many crossbreeds, the Gerberian Shepsky may have existed naturally over the years. That being said, the mix started gaining attention amongst designer breeders in the 1990s. The ultimate aim was to create the perfect hybrid working dog, and breeding continued as demand went through the roof. Even though the Gerberian Shepsky mix is referred to as a designer breed, plenty still ends up in shelters worldwide.

Interesting Facts about Shepsky:

The Gerberian Shepsky are mixed breed dogs, not pure breed like the parents.
Many refer to the Gerberian Shepsky as a cross between a cop and a babysitter.
Since they descend from dogs that live in very cold climates, they tolerate chilly weather.
German Shepherds come in various colors, including black, blue, tan, red, and cream – but usually a mix of two rather than one block color.

Temperament and Personality

Gerberian Shepsky are bundles of energy and most owners would likely highlight their active and playful personalities. As their ancestors were working dogs, it is best to keep them busy with some kind of job – which is why they are so often used by the police, search and rescue, and more. Basically, the Gerberian Shepsky likes to feel wanted and needed.

Due to their size and energy levels, the Gerberian Shepsky should never be kept in an apartment. They need space to roam, ideally with a back garden to run around in. They are also not comfortable being left on their own for any significant time. They will likely resort to chewing and howling if they become bored without company and exercise.

Owners need to assert their dominance over any Gerberian Shepsky dog, as they are pack animals and look towards a leader for guidance. They may act out and test you if they do not respect you as their leader. As such, it is important to remain firmly in control at all times, clearly showing them the rules and ensuring they stick to them.

For example, telling them to stay before they are allowed to approach the food bowl and eat is a great way to remain in control. If they see you as the person in control of food, water, toys, and walks – they will likely respect you and follow your lead.

We recommend that you socialize your Gerberian Shepsky from an early age, which includes people and other animals, to ensure they grow into a polite and well-rounded pet.

Category	Rating (out of 5)
Adaptability	3
Adapts to apartment living	1
Energy levels	5
Adapts to being alone	2
Tolerates cold weather	4
Tolerates hot weather	3
All-around friendliness	4
Affectionate with family	5
Kid-friendly	4
Dog friendly	3
Cat friendly	3
Friendly with strangers	4
Health and grooming	3
Shedding	4
Drooling	2
Easy to groom	3
Easy to train	4
Exercise needs	5
Intelligence	5

Activity and Exercise Requirements

Short walks alone are not enough for the Gerberian Shepsky. At the very least, you should give them around 120 minutes of exercise per day, which comes to around 11 miles of walkies per week. Ideally, you should mix up the activities and let them do more adventurous stuff too, including running, search play, swimming, hiking, and more.

The Gerberian Shepsky is very clever, so variation is needed to stay stimulated. As we said before, if they become bored, they will turn all that excess energy into chewing, howling, and troublemaking.

As the Gerberian Shepsky is such a large and energetic dog, it is ideal to have access to a decent-sized yard for them to run around and play in. As such, they are not very well suited to apartments or small houses without gardens.

Feeding and Diet

Your Gerberian Shepsky diet should be designed for a medium-sized dog – but one that possesses high energy requirements. Puppies respond well to a diet that is high in quality and low in calories to ensure they do not grow too quickly between four months and seven months in age – which is when bone problems can develop.

In fact, your Gerberian Shepsky should not play on hard surfaces until age two to protect their bones/joints. Let them play on carpet and grass if possible.

Keep an eye on your dog’s weight, as overfeeding can lead to joint issues and other problems relating to their health. Ensure they get lots of exercises, maintain consistent meal times, and avoid giving them too many treats.

As with any dog, your Gerberian Shepsky’s diet will change as it grows from a puppy into an adult and then into old age. It is always a good idea to ask a vet about your specific Gerberian Shepsky during your next check-up. Ask them for recommendations as there is a vast amount of variation from dog to dog when it comes to Gerberian Shepskys.

thegermanshepherder.com

Grooming and Shedding

A Gerberian Shepsky usually has a coat that is a mixture between the two parents in thickness and color. There can be a mixture of colors between the common ones seen, but Gerberian Shepsky are mainly either black, red, blue, brown, white tan or cream. The thick coat means Gerberian Shepskys are more than happy to run around in the cold weather.

The Gerberian Shepsky is one to avoid for anyone with allergies. Even if you are not allergic, you need to have your vacuum cleaner ready to deal with shedding! You also need a few good brushes per week and only bathe them when needed, and any more than this can damage the coat.

Known Health Problems

The Gerberian Shepsky is at risk for many of the same health problems as the German Shepherd and the Husky. Most of these dogs are generally healthy, but taking them on regular check-up visits with the vet is essential to monitor their health. The most common health problems are hip dysplasia, epilepsy, patellar luxation, and progressive retinal atrophy.

READ MORE: Husky Corgi Mix

Training

As we mentioned, this is a very clever dog that loves being given a job. There is also a reason they are often used by the police, search and rescue, and more… they are highly trainable. The Gerberian Shepsky wants to look towards a pack leader, so you need to be firm and command their respect. This may be difficult for the first time dog parent.

The Gerberian Shepsky is an extremely clever dog. However, this requires a very firm owner who does not let training slip. They will not learn new commands of behaviors unless you teach them and maintain that training. Get the whole family involved so everyone is on the same page.

However, training should not be restricted to basic commands. You also need to socially train your dog so they are comfortable around people and animals. If you fail to do this, they may become territorial and overly protective over you. Social training is always best from day one when they are still a puppy. Use rewards to incentivize good behavior during training. Potty training, obedience training, leash manners, and agility training should also be completed.

Adoption

Even though Gerberian Shepskys are technically a designer breed, it can often be common to find them in rescue centers these days. We always recommend giving a shelter animal home before looking into adopting a puppy. There are German Shepherd and Husky-specific rescues that may house some Gerberian Shepskys, or you can find a dog registry, so it is worth checking there.

Breeders

The most direct route to sourcing a Gerberian Shepsky is via a breeder. This is especially true if you have your heart set on a puppy. Gerberian Shepsky are bred using Husky and German Shepherd parents and there are many experienced breeders out there who provide regular litters. However, we urge you to check your local adoptions and rescue centers first to see if you can give a home to a lovely Gerberian Shepsky. Of course, that is your choice.

In order to find the best breeder for Gerberian Shepsky puppies, we recommend that you research online for your local options. There should be reviews for each breeder to see who has a good reputation and who should be avoided.

Conclusion:

And there we have it, our complete guide to the Husky German Shepherd mix. This should give you all the starter information you need to decide whether you want to adopt or purchase a Gerberian Shepsky. Feel free to refer back as you welcome the new dog into your home for tips on training, health, exercise and more. We wish you all the best with your new best friend!

FAQs:

Are German Shepherd Husky mixes good dogs?

The Gerberian Shepsky is a great family dog due to their affectionate nature and loyalty. However, it is best for a family in which someone is home at all times of the day as they do not do well in isolation or without exercise.

Are Shepskies loyal?

Gerberian Shepskys come from German Shepherd and Husky parents, both of which are incredibly loyal. Therefore, it will come as no surprise that this mix breed is also very loyal to those they love and respect.

Are Shepskies easy to train?

Gerberian Shepskys are very trainable dogs, which is why they are used as police, rescue, and military. Training should not be a problem if you train from an early age and ensure the Gerberian Shepsky respects you as its pack leader. Make sure you socially train them with other people, animals, and pets – for example, at your local dog park.

Is Gerberian Shepsky rare?

Gerberian Shepsky breeding started back in the 1990s and, due to popular demand, has been increasing ever since. Due to their talents as a working dog, they are used not only as pets, but also as a police dog, in the military, search and rescue, and more. So, they are far from rare, but they are still mixed breed dogs.