A Look at the German Shepherd Husky Mix (Large and Lovable)

There are all kinds of “designer dogs” that have hit on the scene in the last few decades. Most of these hybrids make perfect sense. Take the so-called Gerberian Shepsky; a pooch that crosses a German Shepherd with a Siberian Husky. It’s a gorgeous dog, but what’s he like?

A Brief History of the Gerberian Shepsky

As is the case with a lot of modern-day hybrids, there is no pinpointed time frame as to when the Gerberian Shepsky appeared on the scene. This is somewhat due in part because it is not recognized as an official breed by some of the key canine registry outfits like the American Kennel Club.

What is known is that the roots of the breed come from two most recognizable large breeds in the canine kingdom. There is obviously a wealth of info on the two parental breeds. We can ascertain data from these canines to deduce several metrics regarding the hybrid’s physicality and personality.

The Face of a German Husky

Make no mistake: The Gerbarian Shepsky is a beautiful dog that contains gorgeous physical attributes that can be easily spotted at first glance. This is particularly true in the face, where the distinctively piercing blue eyes typical of a husky can be surrounded by the darker, multi-colored coat of your average GSD.

Other Physical Attributes of a Gerbarian Shepksy

The Gerbarian Shepsky is a big dog that typical stands 20 to 25 inches tall and weighs 45 to 88 pounds. While the most common coat hue is brown and black, he can have color variants ranging from red, gray, and golden to blue, cream, and light brown.

While the eyes can have that breathtaking blue coloring, it is possible for a Gerbarian Shepsky to have brown eyes. On some occasions, the dog could have eyes of a different color, which gives them a near-mystical look. A typical dog of this kind will have a pointed muzzle and pointy ears, and his skull will contain attributes of both parental breeds.

How Does a Gerberian Shepsky Behave?

In order to get an idea of what a Gerberian Shepsky is like, it’s important that you take a look at the behavior attributes of both parental breeds. In the case of this hybrid, you’ll quickly notice that it draws from quite a few similar genetic tendencies, which may make his behavior a little more predictable than other hybrids.

For instance, both the GSD and the Husky were bred to be solid working dogs. Even though the jobs that they carried out were decidedly different, their work ethic and the feats of derring-do they can perform are practically the stuff of legends.

In the case of the GSD, they were bred to be herding dogs. However, their sheer intelligence and agility made them an ideal breed for more intensive fields of work, such as the military and local police forces. Their supreme loyalty also makes them an excellent choice for guide dog services.

The husky, also known as the Siberian Husky, was bred to have the strength and endurance necessary to haul heavy loads on sleds for long distances. Huskies and sledding are still strongly associated with each other, thanks in large part to the famous Iditarod sled dog race that happens in Alaska each year.

Based on the bloodline alone, you can guess that the Gerbarian Shepsky is a high-energy dog that doesn’t know what the term “couch potato” means. It also means that they can develop a strong sense of loyalty when properly trained, as you will be more than an owner – you’ll be their “boss” giving them assignments.

One area where the Gerbarian Shepsky tends to lean on his Husky roots is his pack mentality. Huskies were bred to work together as pack dogs on sled teams, and this has given the hybrid strong pack-like attributes. If you do not establish yourself as a firm, strong pack leader, they may try to assume that role for themselves.

The hybrid tends to mimic the alert, spirited nature of a GSD. His keen sense of awareness, supreme intelligence, and fierce loyalty make him an excellent watchdog that won’t back down if he senses you’re in danger. They also don’t like being left alone, and they tend to vocalize their displeasure – much to your neighbor’s chagrin.

Because both parental breeds are known for their gentle and loving playfulness, you can expect a Gerbarian Shepsky to be the same way. These attributes make the dog a terrific choice for families with children when properly socialized. He can also put up with other animals in the house when socialization occurs, particularly at a young age.

What Are the Training and Exercise Needs of a Gerbarian Shepsky?

The GSD and the husky are both high-energy breeds, and the Gerbarian Shepsky certainly follows the path of his parents. This hybrid is full of robust vigor, and daily exercise is needed so he can channel his restless spirit in an acceptable, non-destructive way. Because he’s energetic, he’s not suitable for apartments or small living spaces.

This dog requires one long walk per day, but it’s preferable to give him a second lengthy jaunt if at all possible. Even if you do provide him with his stroll, his exercise needs are far from over. You’ll need to incorporate some form of playtime in order to satiate his soul.

Because the Gerbarian Shepsky is athletic and highly intelligent thanks to his bloodline, he is an excellent candidate for various dog sports, such as Frisbee catching and agility training. The latter will also help to stimulate his brain, which is essential to keeping your dog happy. If he’s not allowed to flex his noggin, he may turn your yard into a puzzle toy.

The dog’s combo of brainpower and working tendencies makes him relatively easy to train, just as long as you conduct the training in a firm, patient manner that lets him know that you’re the alpha dog. If you don’t, the pooch could lean on his Husky tendencies and try become a strong pack leader. This could make training very tough.

Are Gerbarian Shepskies Easy to Groom?

The Gerbarian Shepsky has a fluffy double coat that needs brushing a minimum of twice a week to avoid mats and tangles. You also need to pay particularly close attention to the pooch’s eyes and ears, as crusty tear residue and ear wax can build up rather quickly. Of course, you shouldn’t treat the dog’s nails or teeth as afterthoughts.

This dog is a moderate shedder, so those that are looking for a hypoallergenic pooch may want to seek out another dog. It should be noted that this dog does not handle warm weather all that well because of his double coat. If you live in a warmer climate, you must create a comfortable environment for him so he can beat the heat.

Are Gerbarian Shepskies Healthy?

Because Gerbarian Shepskies are a relatively new hybrid breed, there aren’t necessarily chronic health conditions specifically pinpointed to the dog. However, it may be prudent to look at his parental breeds to get a bead on what types of conditions your pooch may be prone to.

Some of the more common ailments that can be found amongst GSDs and huskies include elbow and hip dysplasia, eye issues, flea allergies, skin ailments such as eczema, and digestive issues. You can expect your pooch to live 10 to 13 years, which is comparable to the lifespan of the dog’s parental breeds.

How Much does a Gerbarian Shepsky Cost?

You can expect to pay $350 to $850 for a Gerbarian Shepsky. You may see a drop in this price tag if you’re willing to forego the puppy phase and pick up an adult. As always, you should make sure you’re working with a reputable breeder to acquire your pooch.

When you’re looking to bring home a Gerbarian Shepsky, don’t forget that initial cost only scratches the surface of what your four-legged friend will cost you. It’s important to prepare for secondary expenses like registration, vet visits, food, toys, and the like. If you have to work with an out-of-state breeder, shipping costs may also be involved.

Don’t Get Lured in by a Pretty Face!

One of the reasons why dogs are great pets is because they look adorable. And while a dog that melts your heart should be one of the attributes behind your decision, it should not be the prime mover on what kind of dog you get.

There’s no denying the Gerbarian Shepsky is an alluring dog. However, he’s also a high-energy dog that requires a lot of work in order to keep him happy and healthy, both in body and in mind. If you can’t provide him with the means to keep him properly content, this is not the dog for you.

However, if you can deliver the things that he needs, then you’ll have a loyal and happy dog in your home; a gentle and playful companion that will love your company as much as you love his. He may end up being the best dog you’d ever had.