Designer Dogs: An In-Depth Guide to Husky Mixes
As a lifelong dog lover and veterinarian, I‘ve always been fascinated by the unique beauty and personality of Siberian huskies. With their wolf-like good looks, piercing blue eyes, and boundless energy, it‘s no surprise that huskies have soared in popularity over the past decade. According to the American Kennel Club, Siberian husky registrations have increased by 32% since 2010, making them the 14th most popular breed in the United States as of 2021.
This surge in husky ownership has also led to a boom in designer dogs mixing huskies with other popular breeds. From Huskydoodles to Pitskies to Gerberian Shepskies, it seems like every possible husky pairing has a catchy portmanteau and an eager fanbase. But are these mixed breeds really the best of both worlds, or do they come with unforeseen challenges? As a vet and husky enthusiast, I‘ll dive into the world of husky mixes to help you separate fact from fiction.
Understanding the Siberian Husky
To grasp the appeal and potential pitfalls of husky mixes, it‘s important to start with the husky itself. Huskies descended from the hardy sled dogs developed by the Chukchi people of Siberia, bred to haul heavy loads across vast frozen expanses. In 1908, Siberian huskies were brought to Alaska for sled dog races and quickly earned a reputation for their speed, stamina and good-natured temperament.
As pack dogs, Siberian huskies are social and friendly, but they can also be independent and stubborn. They have a strong prey drive, a desire to roam, and a knack for escaping even well-fenced yards. Huskies are also notorious talkers, prone to howling, "talking," and whining to express themselves.
From a health perspective, responsible breeders have made strides in reducing genetic issues through careful screening, but huskies remain predisposed to certain conditions. Hip dysplasia, a malformation of the hip joint, affects an estimated 9.5% of the breed according to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. Hereditary eye problems like juvenile cataracts, corneal dystrophy and progressive retinal atrophy are also concerns.
The Pros and Cons of Designer Dogs
So what happens when you mix a husky with another purebred dog? The honest answer is that it depends. Crossbreeding can introduce desirable traits and hybrid vigor, but it can also produce puppies with the worst traits of both parent breeds or unexpected health problems.
Proponents of mixed breeds argue that they are healthier than purebreds, with a larger gene pool reducing the risk of inherited disorders. However, the evidence is mixed. A 2018 study in PLOS Genetics found that mixed breed dogs had a lower incidence of 10 genetic disorders, but a higher incidence of ruptured cranial cruciate ligament. Ultimately, the health of any individual dog – mixed or purebred – depends largely on the health of its parents and grandparents.
As veterinarian Dr. Jessica Vogelsang points out, "The idea that mutts are healthier than purebreds is a myth. Genetic disorders aren‘t limited to purebreds. The advantage of getting a purebred from a responsible breeder is that they typically do a lot of health testing to avoid passing on problems."
Mixed breeds also tend to be less predictable in terms of size, appearance and temperament. While a reputable breeder can give you a general sense of what to expect based on the parent breeds, there‘s still significant variation between individual puppies in the same litter. In contrast, purebreds bred to a standard have more consistency and predictability, which can be important for owners looking for specific traits.
Popular Husky Mixes
Despite the unknowns, many prospective owners are drawn to the unique look and personality of husky mixes. Here‘s a closer look at some of the most common crosses:
Husky x Poodle = Huskydoodle or Siberpoo
The Poodle is a popular cross for many breeds thanks to its hypoallergenic coat, intelligence and trainability. Huskydoodles combine these traits with the striking appearance of the husky, resulting in a medium to large dog weighing 40-60 pounds. They usually have a shaggy or wavy coat that sheds less than a purebred husky, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers.
Huskydoodles are energetic and athletic, inheriting the poodle‘s eagerness to please and quick learning ability. However, they can also have a stubborn streak and a high prey drive, so early training and socialization are essential. Potential health issues include hip dysplasia, eye disorders and thyroid problems.
Husky x Australian Shepherd = Aussie Husky
This mix blends two intelligent, energetic herding breeds for a loyal, trainable companion. Aussie Huskies are agile and athletic, excelling in dog sports like agility and flyball. They typically weigh 40-65 pounds with a medium-length double coat in a variety of colors and patterns.
As with both parent breeds, Aussie Huskies need plenty of physical and mental exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They can be standoffish with strangers and have a strong prey drive, so socialization is key. Health concerns include hip and elbow dysplasia, epilepsy, and eye conditions like cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy.
Husky x Golden Retriever = Goberian
The Goberian is a friendly, outgoing mix that combines the retrieving instincts of the Golden with the endurance of the Husky. These large dogs weigh 50-90 pounds with a thick double coat that sheds heavily. They are typically good with children and other dogs, but may have a high prey drive.
Goberians are intelligent and eager to learn, but can inherit the husky‘s independent streak, so positive reinforcement training is a must. They need ample daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Like many large breeds, they are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, and may also develop eye disorders or hypothyroidism.
Husky x German Shepherd = Gerberian Shepsky
This striking mix combines the power and intelligence of the German Shepherd with the athleticism of the Husky. Gerberian Shepskies are loyal, protective, and highly trainable, making them popular choices for service work and search-and-rescue. They typically weigh 45-88 pounds with a thick double coat and upright ears.
As a mix of two working breeds, Shepskies need a job to do, whether it‘s learning new tricks, going for long runs, or competing in dog sports. They can be aloof with strangers and have a high prey drive, so early socialization is critical. Health issues may include hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, epilepsy, and eye disorders.
Husky x Pomeranian = Pomsky
The Pomsky is a miniature version of the husky, weighing just 15-35 pounds. These fluffy, fox-faced dogs have become Instagram darlings, but they are not for everyone. Pomskies are vocal, high-energy, and can be difficult to housetrain due to their small size.
As with many small breeds, Pomskies are prone to dental issues, luxating patellas, and tracheal collapse. They may also inherit the husky‘s stubbornness and desire to roam, so secure fencing and leash training are non-negotiable. Pomskies need plenty of playtime and positive reinforcement training to channel their smarts and energy.
How to Choose a Husky Mix
If you‘re considering a husky mix, start by honestly assessing your lifestyle and what you‘re looking for in a dog. Husky mixes are best suited for active, experienced owners who have the time and energy to keep up with a high-octane companion. If you live a sedentary lifestyle or work long hours, a lower-key breed may be a better fit.
When choosing a breeder, do your homework to avoid supporting puppy mills or backyard breeders. A responsible breeder will health test both parents, provide proof of veterinary care, and offer a written contract and health guarantee. They should also be willing to answer questions about the breed and let you meet the puppies and parents in person.
Here are some red flags to watch out for:
- Breeders who always have puppies available or let you pay online with a credit card
- Puppies that are cheaper than average or seem too good to be true
- Breeders who won‘t let you visit their facility or meet the parent dogs
- Puppies that are being sold at less than 8 weeks of age or without age-appropriate vaccinations
As tempting as it may be, avoid buying a husky mix puppy on a whim or because you fell in love with a cute picture online. These dogs require a significant commitment of time, energy and resources, and they aren‘t the right fit for every home.
If possible, consider adopting an adult husky mix from a shelter or rescue group. Many of these dogs have already been spayed/neutered and undergone some basic obedience training. Adopting an adult also gives you a better sense of the dog‘s personality and health needs, and frees up resources to help other homeless pets.
Key Traits of Popular Husky Mixes
The following table provides a quick comparison of size, energy level, trainability, shedding, and overall maintenance level for five common husky mixes:
| Mix | Weight Range | Energy Level | Trainability | Shedding | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Huskydoodle | 40-60 lbs | High | Moderate | Low-Moderate | Moderate |
| Aussie Husky | 40-65 lbs | Very High | High | Moderate-High | High |
| Goberian | 50-90 lbs | High | Moderate | High | High |
| Gerberian Shepsky | 45-88 lbs | Very High | High | High | Very High |
| Pomsky | 15-35 lbs | High | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
Of course, these are generalizations, and individual dogs within a mix can vary widely. Use this information as a starting point, but remember that your dog‘s unique personality and needs may not fit neatly into a breed profile.
Living with a Husky Mix
As an owner of two husky mixes myself (an Alusky and a Goberian), I can attest to both the joys and challenges of living with these dynamic dogs. My Alusky, Zuko, is a born adventurer who loves nothing more than a long hike or a game of fetch in the snow. He‘s also an escape artist extraordinaire, and has scaled fences, shimmied under gates, and even figured out how to open the back door when he thinks it‘s time for a walk.
My Goberian, Nala, is a cuddly couch potato at home but a tireless athlete on the trail. She‘s a quick learner and loves to show off her latest tricks, but she can also be stubborn when she doesn‘t get her way. And both dogs are champion shedders, leaving a trail of fur wherever they go.
Despite the hair and the mischief, I wouldn‘t trade my husky mixes for anything. Watching them run and play with unbridled joy, or snuggle up next to me after a long day, reminds me every day why I fell in love with this breed. But I also know that they are a lot of work, and not the right fit for everyone.
If you‘re considering a husky mix, be honest with yourself about whether you have the time, energy and resources to meet their needs. These dogs crave human interaction and can become destructive or anxious if left alone for long periods. They need a consistent exercise routine and plenty of mental stimulation through training, puzzle toys, and interactive play.
Huskies are also notorious escape artists, so a securely fenced yard and a good recall are essential. Even then, many husky mixes have a high prey drive and are not safe off-leash in unsecured areas. And while they are generally friendly with people, they may view small animals as prey, so caution is needed around cats, rabbits, and other small pets.
Resources for Husky Mix Owners
If you‘ve decided that a husky mix is the right dog for you, congratulations! You‘re in for a lifetime of love, laughter, and endless adventures. To help you navigate the challenges of husky ownership, here are some resources to check out:
- Siberian Husky Club of America – The official breed club for Siberian Huskies, with information on breed history, health, training, and more.
- Husky Haven – A Florida-based rescue group that specializes in rehoming Siberian Huskies and husky mixes.
- Husky Rescue of the Mid-Atlantic – A non-profit rescue organization serving husky and husky mixes in the Mid-Atlantic region.
- Training Siberian Huskies Facebook Group – A community of over 40,000 husky owners sharing tips and advice on training, behavior, and more.
- The Husky Advisor – A blog dedicated to all things husky, with articles on training, health, nutrition, and gear reviews.
Remember, owning a husky mix is not just a privilege, but a responsibility. By educating yourself, working with a responsible breeder or rescue group, and committing to your dog‘s lifelong needs, you can build an unbreakable bond with your new best friend. And who knows – you might even find yourself joining the ranks of devoted husky lovers like me!
