Gerberian Shepsky: German Shepherd & Siberian Husky Crossbreed

The Gerberian Shepsky is a beautiful crossbreed that combines two iconic breeds; the stunning Siberian Husky and the fiercely loyal German Shepherd. If you’re thinking about getting one, keep reading for all of the key facts you need to know. 

Gerberian Shepsky Fast Facts

Average Weight	35-90 lbs (16-41 kgs)
Average Height	20-25 inches (51-64 cm)
Hypoallergenic?	No
Coat	Thick smooth coarse double coat
Shedding	Heavy shedders
Grooming	Regular
Barking	Moderate
Good with kids?	Yes
Good with cats?	Varies
Good with other dogs?	With training
Tolerates being alone	For short periods
Tolerates apartment life	No
Training	Experienced trainer necessary
People pleaser?	Moreso independent
Exercise Needs	60+ minutes per day
Health Concerns	Hip dysplasia, bloat, and skin conditions.
Life Span	10 – 15 years
Average cost	$800-$1,500

History & origin of Gerberian Shepsky 

The Gerberian Shepsky is a mixed breed that originated in the United States, resulting from the crossing of a Siberian Husky and a German Shepherd. They’re slowly gaining popularity across the US, both as family pets and working dogs.

German Shepherd 

The German Shepherd was first bred in Germany in the late 19th century by Captain Max von Stephanitz by breeding different farm dogs. They were originally bred to be agile and intelligent herding dogs, but have become synonymous with police and military work, as well as search and rescue, becoming one of the most popular and respected breeds worldwide. 

German Shepherds first came to the United States in the early 20th century. The American Kennel Club officially recognized them as a breed in 1908 and they still consistently rank among the top 5 most popular dog breeds every year in the US. Today, they continue to be utilized for their working abilities, as well as loving and protective family pets.

Siberian Husky 

Siberian Huskies were bred for sled work by the Chukchi people several centuries ago. They were bred to work in ice-cold Arctic conditions and gained worldwide notoriety through races like the All-Alaska Sweepstakes. In 1925, they famously saved lives in a Nome serum run during a diphtheria outbreak.

Huskies made their way to the United States in 1908 and were recognized by the AKC in 1930. They remain popular family pets, ranking in the top 20 dog breeds in the US as of 2021, and still work as sled dogs in cold climate countries.

Physical characteristics of the Gerberian Shepsky  

All about the physical traits of the crossbreed.

Size & weight

The exact size of a Gerberian Shepsky will depend on their age and sex, with males being larger and heavier than females. However, they typically measure around 20-25 inches (51-64 cm) tall and weigh between 45-90 pounds (20-41 kg). Because active nature, they’re not well suited to smaller homes or apartments.

Breeding & puppyhood

Gerberian Shepsky puppies are born in litters of 4 to 6 puppies on average. They typically enter adolescence at around 6 to 9 months old, reach their full adult size by 18 to 24 months,  and mental maturity by 2 years of age. 

Pregnancy and birthing issues can be more common in Gerberian Shepskies compared to purebred dogs because of the genetic diversity and the varying body structures inherited from their parent breeds, so vets should keep informed every step of the process.

Appearance

Gerberian Shepskies are a striking-looking mix, combining the physical characteristics of their German Shepherd and Siberian Husky. They typically have well-built, athletic bodies with strong and muscular frames, long legs, and bushy, curved tails. 

They also often have stunning blue or bi-colored eyes, reminiscent of the Siberian Husky, with narrow faces and pointed ears.

Coat type

Gerberian Shepskies have a thick double coat, a trait inherited from both parent breeds. Their outer coat is dense, straight, and moderately long, while the undercoat is soft and insulating to adapt to various weather conditions. Their fur is short smooth and coarse to the touch. 

Coat color

The coat color of Gerberian Shepskies can vary widely, but the most common colors include black, gray, red, and cream. Their coat can also feature markings reminiscent of their parent breeds, such as a black saddle and mask.

Are they heavy shedders? 

Gerberian Shepskies are moderate to heavy shedders, especially during shedding seasons, or the 2-4 week transition from spring to summer and fall to winter when they “blow” their coat. Regular grooming is key to minimizing shedding. We’ll talk a bit more about that in a few moments.

Are Gerberian Shepskies hypoallergenic? 

As mentioned above, Gerberian Shepskies are moderate to heavy shedders, so they are not classed as hypoallergenic and would most likely trigger allergic reactions in people with allergies to pet hair. 

Gerberian Shepskies personality

Gerberian Shepskies are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and strong-willed nature. They are very energetic, task-driven, hardworking, and playful, requiring a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy. 

They blend the intelligence of the German Shepherd with the independent spirit of the Siberian Husky. Both parent breeds have a stubborn streak, so training can be difficult for inexperienced owners.

However, they are very bright dogs with working histories on both sides of their genetics, so with the right bond and techniques, they can be well-trained dogs.  More on that in a moment.

Gerberian Shepskies are very affectionate and watchful of family members and good with kids. They’re generally friendly with strangers but can need training to combat territorial behaviors at home. They also need a lot of socialization to interact well with other dogs. 

Are they good family dogs?

Gerberian Shepskies can make excellent family dogs when properly socialized and trained. They love to be in the heart of family life and make close bonds with their loved ones. They are protective and caring, watchful over their family members, and make great companions for family vacations and camping trips. 

Are they good with other dogs?

Early socialization is crucial to ensure Gerberian Shepskies get along with other dogs. With proper introductions and training, they can get on well with other dogs, but they may display some dominant tendencies.

Are Gerberian Shepskies good with children?

Gerberian Shepskies are typically good with children. That said, we don’t recommend them for families with very young children, as they can get boisterous during play and could easily knock over a small child due to their size. Every child should be taught how to interact with their four-legged family members safely and respectfully.

Can Gerberian Shepskies live with cats?

Gerberian Shepskies have a somewhat high prey drive, but they can live with cats if they’re introduced to each other early on and socialized together regularly until they’re comfortable with each other. Rewards are crucial!

Are they protective?

Gerberian Shepskies often exhibit protective behavior towards their owners, making them good guard dogs. They are alert by nature and will alert their family to potential threats.

Are German Shepskies aggressive? 

While they can be protective, Gerberian Shepskies are not inherently aggressive. However, their behavior largely depends on socialization, training, and the environment in which they are raised.

Are Gerberian Shepskies difficult to train? 

Gerberian Shepskies are intelligent and trainable, but, as mentioned above, they can also be somewhat stubborn. So, your training sessions with your Gerberian Shepsky pup should be short and fun with clear commands and lots of positive reinforcement. 

Consistency is key, with the most effective training pattern being to train once or twice a week for 5-15 minute sessions. This may seem like a small amount, but it’s the best way to train according to the findings of a study called The effect of frequency and duration of training sessions on the acquisition and long-term memory in dogs. 

You can start their training at any age, but you should aim to start training your Gerberian Shepsky puppy by 12 weeks old. Start with the basics before moving on to anything too advanced and remember that you should never punish them if they do something wrong, but rather redirect unwanted behaviors. Key areas of focus for the breed should be obedience and socialization. 

• Practicing recall and basic commands like sit is great for obedience, as well as impulsive control. You can practice better impulse control by making your dog wait for food.
• To socialize your dog, invite close friends, family members, and family dogs over to your home so that they can learn the rules in a safe environment and go for group walks with other dogs, or walks to dog parks. 

Always reward positive interactions and redirect anything undesirable. For example, when your pup jumps up at someone, pull them away and use the “down” command. Ask them to sit down and let the person say hello to them instead. Allow friendly dogs to teach your pup doggie etiquette, but always supervise them early on, and try to neutralize any bad experiences when you’re out and about by redirecting their attention to something more positive. 

Do they get separation anxiety? 

Gerberian Shepskies are prone to separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods. Pent-up energy, boredom, and loneliness increase the likelihood of separation anxiety and result in destructive behaviors like excessive barking and destroying furniture, so it’s important to make sure your pup gets enough exercise, play, and company. 

To avoid separation anxiety with your Gerberian Shepsky, practice separation training with them early on in their lives. You can do this by building their independence gradually with time alone and creating positive associations through solo play toys like treat dispensers and special treats. Never react angrily to destructive behaviors, and use anti-anxiety products like plug-in diffusers and supplements to aid your training. 

Are they vocal dogs?

Gerberian Shepskies can be vocal, especially when they’re excited or want attention. They may howl, bark, or whine, so early training to manage this behavior is a good idea.

Do they drool a lot?

Gerberian Shepskies do not typically drool excessively, so you won’t have to worry about them leaving a mess around your home. However, every dogs is different, and most will drool a little, occasionally. 

Can Gerberian Shepskies be used as working dogs?

While most designer dogs aren’t used as working dogs, the Gerberian Shepsky is used in police work and search and rescue missions like their parent breeds because they have such strong working genetics. 

Gerberian Shepsky care

Let’s take a brief look at the basic needs of Gerberian Shepskies for budding owners. 

Diet

To guarantee your dog’s overall health, it’s crucial to provide them with a well-rounded diet. Prioritize nutritionally complete dog food that is rich in vital vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, carbohydrates, and lean proteins. Select high-quality kibbles or wet foods crafted from genuine ingredients, while steering clear of low-quality fillers and synthetic additives. 

Be sure to also pick food that is tailored to the Gerberian Shepsky’s size and your dog’s life stage, as their nutritional requirements differ, with larger breeds like this needing a little extra protein and omega fatty acids to support their bone and muscle development.

Gerberian Shepskies should eat 2-3 cups of food daily, split into two meals. For puppies, feed them 20% of their weight per day, divided into 3-4 small meals, and lower seniors’ calorie intake as they age to reduce pressure on the joints.

Exercise 

A Gerberian Shepsky requires at least 1 to 2 hours of vigorous exercise per day to stay physically and mentally healthy, as they are a highly active and energetic breed. They love to walk, run, hike, swim, and camp in all weather.

These dogs tend to stay active well into old age, but will need to slow down a little as they get older. Young pups need 5 minutes per month of their age twice a day, this may not seem like much for these vastly growing youngsters, but it’s crucial to keep their joints developing healthily. 

Grooming 

German Shepsky coats are not too high maintenance, as they’re short and smooth, but they still need grooming to avoid getting too dirty. To maintain their coat, you should brush them once or twice a week using a pin or slicker brush and bathe them as needed with a natural dog shampoo. They don’t typically need haircuts or regular baths, unless they get dirty when they’re out on walks a lot.  

Play

Due to their high energy levels and innate curiosity, Gerberian Shepskies are particularly prone to boredom. Without adequate exercise and mental stimulation, they can become restless and resort to undesirable and destructive behaviors like digging indoors, going potty indoors, destroying furniture, and excessive barking.

It’s crucial to engage them in regular exercise and provide mentally stimulating play with challenging games and interactive toys and training to keep them happy. To keep them entertained, you should invest in some challenging toys like doggie puzzles, sensory toys, treat dispensers, and snuffle mats. Some good games for Gerberian Shepskies include hide and seek and treasure hunt.

To play hide and seek, ask your dog to sit and stay while you hide somewhere in the home, then call them to come and find you. To play treasure hunt, follow the same rules but hide their favorite toy or some treats instead. 

You could also teach them a new trick, try an agility course, or engage in activities that exercise their natural instincts. Due to their herding and sledding genes, they love to run and chase, so classic games like fetch are always a winner! 

Are Gerberian Shepskies healthy?

Gerberian Shepskies have an average lifespan of 10-15 years. They are generally healthy dogs, but all breeds and crossbreeds are naturally predisposed to having certain health conditions.

When buying a puppy from a breeder, you should ask them for health documentation that covers any breed-specific genetic conditions.

Hip & elbow dysplasia 

Hip & elbow dysplasia is a prevalent genetic ailment among dogs, resulting in abnormal growth of the joints. It eventually leads to arthritis and requires surgery to correct the joint, but that’s not usually necessary unless severe.

Vets diagnose the condition through a basic physical examination and x-ray. Mild cases can often be managed with lifestyle adjustments, non-surgical therapies, hip & joint supplements, and pain relief medications, and shouldn’t affect the length or quality of a dog’s life. 

Symptoms of hip & elbow dysplasia in dogs include:

• Limping or bunny hopping
• Whining or showing signs of pain/discomfort 
• Loss of muscle mass around the hips
• Low energy and irritability 
• Limited mobility 
• Inability to get comfortable
• Licking the affected joints

Bloat (Gastric torsion)

Bloat or gastric torsion in dogs is when the stomach fills with gas and it’s significantly more common in large, deep-chested breeds like the Gerberian Shepsky. It’s caused by the rapid accumulation of gas in the stomach, often by eating too fast. 

It is considered a medical emergency because it can twist the gut in a way that cuts off its blood supply, and it requires immediate treatment. It can also make the spleen twist and lose circulation, and block vital veins in the back that carry blood to the heart.

Any dogs suspected of having bloat must be taken to the emergency vet hospital as soon as possible. They will need to have their stomach pumped and receive IV fluid treatment, antibiotics, painkillers, and surgery.

Signs of bloat in dogs include:

• A hard, swollen belly
• Retching
• Drooling
• Abdomen pain
• General distress

Cataracts

Gerberian Shepskies are also prone to cataracts, a cloudiness that develops on the lens of the eye causing impaired vision. It can be caused by genetics, old age, diabetes, or trauma to the eye. Diagnosis involves eye examination and specialized testing and can be treated surgically but is usually left alone in age-related cases. The prognosis is generally good.

Signs of cataracts in dogs include:

• Cloudy or milky-looking eyes
• Blue-grey looking eyes   
• Decreased or blurry vision
• Night blindness 
• Increased clumsiness 
• Squinting or rubbing of the eyes
• Anxiety 

Check out the video below for more info:

Hypothyroidism 

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland doesn’t create enough of the thyroxine hormone. It can cause internal systems such as the digestive system to slow down. In most cases, the causes are unknown. 

Diagnosis can be tricky, as there are several conditions that mimic it. Vets may take multiple blood tests before confirming a diagnosis, but it can be managed with regular, lifelong thyroxine medication. With treatment, it shouldn’t affect the length or quality of their lives. 

The symptoms of hypothyroidism in dogs include:

• Lethargy
• Low mood
• Weight gain & obesity 
• Intolerance to cold and exercise
• Increased shedding or hair loss
• Thickening of the skin

Allergies

Gerberian Shepskies are also prone to allergies, which can include food and environmental allergies, but they are particularly affected by skin allergies. Skin allergies are often reactive to certain plants and harsh chemicals in shampoos and conditioners and can cause:

• Hives
• Hair loss
• Skin irritation
• Itching 
• Redness

Common food allergies in dogs, on the other hand, often include gluten, soy, eggs, and proteins from meat and dairy. They can cause: 

• Smelliness 
• Dull coat
• Lethargy 
• Stomach upsets

Common environmental allergies include pollen, dust, and home cleaning products and can cause: 

• Red or irritated eyes
• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Runny nose

If you think your dog is allergic to something in their diet, you should talk to your vet about doing an elimination diet to help you find and cut out the cause of their symptoms or switch to hypoallergenic food.

Stick to topical products with natural, gentle formulas, and try antihistamine medication for environmental allergies if the cause can’t be eliminated. You can also incorporate a good Immune & Allergy Supplement into your dog’s daily routine.

Gerberian Shepsky puppy health tests 

When acquiring a puppy from a breeder, it’s essential to request health documentation, signed by a veterinarian, verifying that the puppy’s parents have been tested and found free of breed-specific hereditary conditions like hip and elbow dysplasia.

How much does a Gerberian Shepsky cost?

The cost of a Gerberian Shepsky can vary significantly depending on factors such as the breeder’s reputation, the dog’s pedigree, location, and the availability of puppies. On average, you can expect to pay between $600 to $1,500 for a Gerberian Shepsky. 

However, prices can go higher for dogs from well-established breeders with exceptional lineage or lower if you adopt from a rescue or shelter. Remember that the initial cost is just one part of the expenses; you’ll also need to budget for ongoing care, including food, grooming, veterinary bills, and training.

Where can I find a Gerberian Shepsky puppy?

To find a Gerberian Shepsky puppy, you have several options. Reputable breeders who specialize in this hybrid breed are a good place to start. You can search for them online using websites like Puppyspot and Petfinder, attend dog shows, or ask for recommendations from local breed clubs. 

If you’re considering purchasing a puppy, seek out small-scale hobby breeders who raise their dogs in a home environment and hold endorsements from respected organizations like the American Kennel Club. Exercise due diligence when researching breeders by looking at online reviews and recommendations. 

Choose breeders who adhere to ethical practices, including waiting until the puppies are at least 8 weeks old before rehoming them, providing comprehensive genetic and health information, supplying documentation, regularly sharing puppy updates and photos, and encouraging potential buyers to visit and meet the puppies in person. 

Rescue Gerberian Shepsky costs

Additionally, you should consider adoption from rescue organizations or animal shelters. 

This is a great option for owners seeking adult dogs that have already been trained or those who need a little extra love, but it is also a more affordable option than purchasing from a breeder.

Adopting a rescue Gerberian Shepsky will typically cover the adoption fee set by the rescue shelter, which can vary from $50 to $400, depending on where it is, whether or not they specialize in the parent breeds, and whether it’s a well-known shelter or a smaller one.  

The adoption process begins with an application. If approved, you will have the opportunity to meet the dog in person and your home will be inspected before being approved.

Cost of owning a Gerberian Shepsky  

Owning a Gerberian Shepsky costs approximately $1,000 to $2,500 per year, including expenses for food, veterinary care, grooming, toys, and more, but expect higher costs in the initial year due to training needs, teething, and outgrowing supplies. 

On a monthly basis, you can expect to spend around $80 to $200. This includes $45 to $70 for high-quality dog food and treats, $10 to $20 for toys and chews, $10 to $20 for grooming supplies, and $30 to $50 for healthcare expenses such as pet insurance and flea and worming medication. The total lifetime cost of owning a Gerberian Shepsky ranges from $10,000 to $32,500.

Gerberian Shepsky FAQ

Answering some frequently asked questions about the crossbreed. 

Are Gerberian Shepskies good for first-time owners?

Gerberian Shepskies are not the best dogs for first-time dog owners because they need an experienced trainer. That said, if you’re a new owner and really want a Gerberian Shepsky, you could pay a professional to help you. 

Are Gerberian Shepskies good for single owners?

Gerberian Shepskies need a lot of exercise, play, and company. This can take up a lot of time, so, if you live alone and work full-time, they may not be the right dog breed for you.

Do Gerberian Shepskies like to swim?

Every dog is different, but generally speaking, the Gerberian Shepsky loves to swim and they tend to be quick and agile swimmers.  

Are Gerberian Shepskies good for retired owners?

Of course, it depends on the individual owner, but generally speaking, Gerberian Shepskies are not the ideal dogs for retired owners as they are big dogs with high energy levels that need a lot of play and exercise.   

Can Gerberian Shepskies live in apartments?

We don’t recommend that Gerberian Shepskies live in smaller spaces like apartments due to their size and energy levels. However, if they do, they must get enough exercise and outdoor time every day.

How long do Gerberian Shepskies live?

Gerberian Shepskies typically have a lifespan of 10 to 13 years. However, you can make sure that your dog lives the longest life possible by feeding them a healthy diet, exercising them regularly, and taking them to annual check-ups at the vet to monitor their health.

How big do Gerberian Shepskies get?

Male Gerberian Shepskies typically reach a height of 20 to 25 inches (51 to 64 cm) and weigh between 45 to 90 pounds (20 to 41 kg). Females tend to be slightly smaller, standing around 20 to 22 inches (51 to 56 cm) and weighing between 35 to 75 pounds (16 to 34 kg).

Can Gerberian Shepskies be left alone?

Gerberian Shepskies can be left alone for 4-6 hours at a time, less for puppies and seniors, but they are social, energetic, and playful dogs. They’re not designed to be alone for long periods on a regular basis and can get separation anxiety when left for too long regularly. 

The Gerberian Shepsky is a beautiful crossbreed that brings together the best traits from two of the world’s most iconic dog breeds. Do you have a Gerberian Shepsky or are you thinking of getting one? Tell us what you love about them in the comments down below!