German Shepherd Dog Breed Personality And Temperament
The German Shepherd dog persistently ranks just behind the Labrador Retriever as the second most popular purebred dog breed in America, according to the American Kennel Club .
This is despite the fact that the GSD, as many owners call this dog breed, is a particularly intense dog breed with a high prey drive and extremely strong guarding and protective instincts.
At face value, these definitely sound like assets to have in a companion canine.
But the truth is that the GSD is not the easiest dog to train and socialize with, especially if you are new to dog ownership and your GSD comes from a working breed line.
The German Shepherd is very bonded with their people and really needs to be at the center of home and family life. These dogs cannot tolerate being left alone even in the company of other dogs.
German Shepherds were originally bred by a German Cavalry officer named Captain Max von Stephanitz to be the perfect working dog breed.
This means that the German Shepherd has a very high energy level and high activity needs.
So a German Shepherd puppy is going to need lots of daily activity and exercise along with early training and socialization to be able to get along in a community where encountering new people and animals will be a daily occurrence.
Caring For Your Gerberian Shepsky
Since your Gerberian Shepsky is a very active dog breed as well as large in stature, they need to have a diet that is packed full of calories and protein. However, when feeding your dog, you must also take into account their age, size, and actual activity level.
Puppies will require more calories than older dogs to help with their growth. Less active and senior dogs require between 1,300 and 1,600 calories while active and working dogs require 1,700 to 2,400 calories per day for optimal health and performance.
To keep up with the active lifestyle of your furry friend, they should have ample space to run and play and plenty of toys to keep them busy and entertained.
Early socialization is also important, so they continue to grow up friendly and outgoing. Dog parks are great for this kind of social training and will also provide them with the mental stimulation they need.
But if you are in a hurry, just check out the chart below or scroll down to the FAQ section at the end of the article.
Gerberian Shepskies Are Susceptible To A Few Different Illnesses And Health Problems
Gerberian Shepskies are usually pretty healthy dogs , but they are susceptible to a number of common health problems that affect both parent breeds.
Some of the most noteworthy health problems include:
- Hip dysplasia
- Digestive problems
Hip and Elbow Dysplasia. This is a genetic disease that is commonly associated with the German Shepherd breed. The disease causes the dogs joints to form incorrectly and when this happens, the dog may experience pain and lose some function in their elbows or hips.
Cataracts. This is a health condition that is common with the Husky. It is also something that can be passed down to a German Shepherd Husky mix puppy. Cataracts are defined as imperfections in the lenses of the eyes and can seriously affect your dogs vision and can cause them to become disoriented.
Ear Infections. This is a problem that many German Shepherds face, but it is also a problem that is quite common in dogs to begin with. Some suffer from allergies and other problems with their immune system and these problems can cause a painful ear infection. Seeing a veterinarian to help narrow down the problem with their ears and even possibly switching up their diet can go a long way in helping and preventing chronic ear infections.
Retinal Atrophy. Progressive retinal atrophy and juvenile cataracts can be found in most German Shepherd Husky mixes. Each of these ailments can occur at a different time in your dogs life, however, and each is also diagnosed differently.
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The German Shepherd Parent
Not only is this dog breed Americas most popular one, but its also one of the most popular purebreds in the world. The German Shepherd dog is a working, intelligent dog capable of completing many hard tasks brought upon him.
Max von Stephanitz never dreamed that his German Shepherd would become so beloved. From aiding the handicapped to serving on the force, the German Shepherd masters every task. Their searching and herding skills are also widely known.
What else is widely known is their stand against strangers. They act a bit aloof, which is a great thing if controlled. This means they make excellent watchdogs. In other words, they will guard your life.
Once this dog gets plenty of exercise and proper training, it will be the best possible dog for anyone. Can they be more perfect than they already are?
Is The Gerberian Shepsky Rare
Gerberian Shepskies are a relatively rare crossbreed when compared to standard breed numbers. However, when compared to other husky-mixes out there, the Shepsky is likely going to be one of the more common crossbreeds due to the sheer popularity of German Shepherds.
Although husky mixes are gaining popularity, it can still be fairly hard to come across a reliable and trustworthy breeder.
The Shepsky is without a doubt most common within the USA and becomes rarer to find in Europe, Asia, and other countries.
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Health And Grooming Needs
Amount of Shedding
Both the parent breed of these dogs are widely known as the heavy shedding breeds. This is because they usually have the thick double-coats that are best-suited for surviving the winters. However, during summers, these coats are to be removed naturally to live through summers as well. This removal of coats is known as shedding.
Like the parent breed, the same is the case with the hybrid Gerberian Shepsky: it removes its coats during summers. However, unlike its parents, the German Shepherd Husky Mix is a moderate shedder.
Keeping this in mind, it is highly recommended that you brush your hybrid dog with a de-shedding tool or a Furminator. Shaving your dog can never be a good option as it can do some serious harm to your dogs health in the longer run. Instead, you can make it bath in a kiddie pool to ward off the effects of heat.
Note: Even though Gerberian Shepsky is a moderate shedder, but if you see the shedding becoming out of control, you can take your dog to regulate de-shedding treatments at the groomer. Also, you can use some de-shedding shampoo and conditioner to ease the problem.
Whats The Price Of Gerberian Shepsky Puppies
The average cost of a Shepsky puppy will be anywhere between $400-$1,200. This price is generally driven by the given demand of a particular region and the availability of quality breeders.
However, you may find that adopting an older dog is better suited for your situation. You can often find the Gerberian Shepsky at rescues or shelters as retired police or working dogs. If thats the case, your biggest costs will be food, toys, and veterinary care.
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Set Up Bathroom And Feeding Schedules
Especially if your Shepsky puppy has inherited a lot of the Huskys self-will , setting up a schedule is a crucial training element.
Setting up a schedule works perfectly in house training as your self-willed Shepsky puppy will learn what to do and when and where to do it.
For example, train your puppy in the routine of going out every time it needs to relieve itself. You can set the routine of taking the puppy out at distinct times, such as:
- First thing in the morning
- Before bed
- After every meal
- After play or training sessions
Set a feeding schedule as well, preferably three or four small meals during the day, and avoid a free-feeding approach. That will help your puppy also predict the bathroom moments.
Do German Shepherd Husky Mixes Smell
While this varies, many Shepsky owners have noted that the dog doesnât have a typical musky âdog smell.â
This is because Huskies do not have an oily coat, and those natural oils are largely responsible for that characteristic odor. Many Huskies pass on their low-oil coat to their crossbred offspring.
If you do adopt a Shepsky, remember not to bathe your dog too regularly. The lack of oil can make them prone to having dry skin, and excessive washing can exacerbate this problem.
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A Look Into The Origins Of The German Shepherd Husky
With the combination of two loyal, hardworking and intelligent canines, the Gerberian Shepsky is by nature an Alpha. With origins from the German Shepherd and Siberian Husky, this Shepsky is definitely an all-in-one pooch.
Lets take a look at the origins of its parents to take a closer look at the traits the German Husky carries.
History Of The Shepsky
As we briefly noted earlier, âShepskyâ is a name for a dog that is a mix of the German Shepherd and Siberian Husky breeds.
While herding dogs were being bred in Germany throughout the 19th century, the first formally recognized German Shepherd was registered by Max von Stephanitz in 1899.
The dog, named Horand von Grafrath, was the result of several generations of selective breeding to create a working dog ideal for herding sheep.
Since then, because of the dogâs consistent strength, intelligence, trainability, and obedience, it has become a popular working dog for professions such as police, military, and search and rescue.
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. The result is an active breed with a lot of endurance that just loves to run.
These dogs do very well in cold climates, and they were introduced to Alaska around 1900 as part of the Alaskan Nome Gold Rush.
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The German Shepherd Husky Mix: A Cool Dog With A Cool Name
When the German Shepherd and the Siberian Husky fell in love, their love child was born and they named it the German Shepherd Husky mix. But, the people called it a Shepsky. It was a cool pup with an even cooler name.
It still is! The German Shepherd Husky mix, or the Gerberian Shepsky, is a fairly new crossbreed that is becoming even more popular. Is it the looks? The charm? The admirable origin? Whats making the Shepsky so special?
Keep on sniffing through the text and youll hunt down the answer!
Will Your Shepsky Get Along With Children & Other Dogs
Although your GSD Husky mix could potentially inherit some aggression from the German Shepherd, most well-socialized Shepskies will get along with other dogs.
Siberian Huskies do not often show aggression against fellow canids. Tiny dogs could pose a problem if your pet perceives them as prey.
Also highly dependent on extensive socialization, your Shepsky should get along with children. The hybrids playful personality makes them great companions for children over the age of eight or nine years old.
As with any larger dog, small children are at risk of injury from the exuberant nature of the Shepsky. Your German Shepherd mix could run over a toddler or may exhibit nipping and herding tendencies.
Keep in mind that mixed breeds are responsible for a large proportion of serious dog bites, and the most common victims are children under nine years old.
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Overview: The German Shepherd Husky Mix At A Glance
This hybrid is the ideal balance of two highly intelligent and regal looking pure breeds. Each litter typically produces 6-8 adorably fluffy puppies, each of which may look different. Some will inherit heterochromia or different colored eyes from their Husky parent, while others will receive the longer snout of their German Shepherd parent. Theyre all sure to have those charmingly alert ears common to both breeds!
Are These Dogs Good For Families
This all really depends on your own family dynamic. At their base, the Gerberian Shepsky is loving, loyal, and very affectionate with anyone in their pack. And that makes them excellent family dogs. Theyre even very patient and compassionate with children.
However, if you cant provide the proper stimulation, they may begin to play a little too rough. Not necessarily through biting though more like theyll bowl over smaller children by bouncing around.
But theyre as loyal as they come and have no qualms defending their pack if challenged.
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German Shepherd Husky Mix Health And Life Expectancy
Because hes a hybrid, the German Shepherd Husky can be susceptible to any of the same health issues as his purebred parents.
Because the German Shepherd Husky mix is a crossbreed, there is a chance that he will be healthier than his purebred parents. This is due to his widened gene pool. However, and as we mentioned above, its still possible for your German Shepherd Husky mix to develop any of the same genetic health issues as his purebred parent breeds, especially if you obtain him through an irresponsible source.
Lifestyle will also play a role in your German Shepherd Huskys health, so its important to have a good idea of what he can be susceptible to so you can work on preventative care.
The average lifespan of a German Shepherd Husky Mix is around 10 to 13 years. During this time, he can be susceptible to the following health issues:
- And Atopic Dermatitis
You can work to prevent certain health issues by ensuring your German Shepherd Husky mix is on a quality dog food specified for his age, weight and activity level. Its also important to keep up with proper grooming and exercise routines.
We further recommend you keep up with routine vet visits. Most veterinarians suggest that you bring your German Shepherd Husky mix in at least once a year until he reaches seven years old, at which point he should be seen twice a year.
For now, lets take a look at whether or not the German Shepherd Husky Mix really is the best dog for you and your family.
German Shepherd Husky Mix Puppy Price
The German Shepherd is usually a bit pricier than the Siberian Husky. However, the cost of their offspring varies.
A Shepsky puppy may cost from $400 to $1,500, but it depends on the breeder. Youll agree theyre quite affordable compared to other fancy designer dogs.
However, if its cheap, it doesnt mean its right. A healthy puppy litter coming from healthy parents means that money must be invested. Do you have any idea how much health screenings, vet care, and flea and worm treatments cost?
The math is simple: if the cost of these things cant cover the price of the puppy, then somethings odd there and you shouldnt purchase the dog.
Buy from trusted breeders!
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Coat Color And Grooming
Shepsky coats are often a mix of their German Shepherd and Siberian Husky parents’ coats and colors. The main colors of Shepskies are brown, black, cream, white, red, and blue. Almost never solid, their coats are generally a mixture of two or more colors.
They usually have long, dense coats, and they’re generally not recommended for people with allergies. They tend to shed quite a bit and you may need to pick up a RoboVac. These pups will require a few good brushes per week. Only bathe as needed so you don’t strip the coat of it’s natural oils. Brushing will also help to spread the oils throughout the coat.
These pups are well suited for cold weather. Their Siberian Husky parentage is straight from Russia, which is about as cold as it gets.
Husky And German Shepherd Mix Personalities
You wont be disappointed if you bring home a new Husky and German Shepherd Mix puppy. These dogs are:
- Good guard dogs. They inherited this characteristic from their parents. But they can be excessive barkers.
- Intelligent. Compared to some other breeds, they learn things quickly because of their higher cognitive abilities.
- Loyal. They will always put you first before themselves.
- Affectionate. They are well-loved because they are affectionate. Be prepared to pet them all day long.
- Friendly. These dogs mix well with other pets and with people. They are trusting.
- Dignified. These dogs may be naughty at times, but they are very dignified.
- Active and powerful. They are energetic and need regular training and exercise. They need at least one walk every day.
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Are German Shepherd Husky Mixes Good With Children
With a fun-loving yet gentle nature, a shepherd husky mix loves to play and run. Teenagers and older children who are able to keep up with this energetic pet will find an eager companion for all their adventures as well as a ready recipient of all the hugs and ear scratches they have to offer.
On the other hand, you may want to use caution if you have a younger child in the home.
Since a German shepard husky is a large dog, they could unintentionally hurt a small child by playing too roughly or knocking the child over. Additionally, families with young children already have their hands full, and giving an energetic and athletic dog like a husky shepherd mix the attention and time they need may not be possible.
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