Gerberian Shepsky

With fluffy fur, bright eyes, and incredibly alert senses, the Gerberian Shepsky is one of the most majestic designer dog breeds on the market. These gorgeous and loyal dogs are made by mixing a German Shepherd with a Siberian Husky in the hopes of getting the best traits from both breeds. The result is a dog that’s hardworking, obedient, energetic, and always excited to be part of the action. Gerberian Shepskies need a lot of attention from their owners and aren’t suited for apartment living. However, if you spend time training them and give them plenty of exercise, you’ll find that these dogs are some of the best companions that you’ll ever have.

Owning a Gerberian Shepsky: 3 Pros and Cons

Evolution and Origins

The exact origins of the Gerberian Shepsky are unknown, although it’s likely this breed was developed in the U.S. in the 1990s, when designer dogs, or hybrids, became popular.

Most designer dogs aren’t used as working dogs. However, because the Gerberian Shepsky is descended from two hardworking breeds, these pups are often used for police work and search and rescue missions like their parents.

The Gerberian Shepsky’s parent breed the German shepherd originated in Germany dating back to the 1890s and was used as a herding dog due to its agility, intelligence, and strength. These qualities also made this breed a very effective working dog, especially for law enforcement. The America Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd in 1912.

The other parent breed, the Siberian Husky, came from northeast Asia and can trace its lineage back around 4,000 years. The Chukchi people kept these huskies as family pets and working sled dogs, hauling freight in arctic conditions, as well as herding reindeer and acting as watchdogs. The Siberian Husky was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1930.

Size and Weight

Gerberian Shepskies are medium to large-sized dogs with thick coats of fluffy fur. Depending on which parent breed they take after, your Gerberian Shepsky might have tan, brown, grey, or white fur with various patterns and patches. Most of them have either light gold or stunning blue eyes. These dogs typically weigh between 50 and 100 pounds, with females weighing slightly less than males from the same litter. Gerberian Shepskies grow quickly when they are puppies; if you start a growth chart, you’ll notice that they can get up to 25 inches tall at the shoulder by the time they are 2 years old.

Common Health Issues

Gerberian Shepskies are fairly healthy dogs that tend to share the same potential genetic conditions as their parent breeds. Possible concerns include joint dysplasia, retinal problems, patellar luxation, and canine epilepsy. Bring your dog to the vet for a checkup as soon as you adopt them from the breeder. The problems your vet will check for include:

• Joint dysplasia
• Patellar luxation
• Retinal atrophy
• Cataracts
• Epilepsy
• Skin allergies.

Temperament

Gerberian Shepskies are sweet and loving dogs with loyal, attentive, and endearing personalities. Because they are descended from two working breeds, they have high energy levels and display many herding and guarding behaviors. These dogs prefer active and involving lives and love to follow their owners to the job site.

When they’re not working, they are playful pets that adore their primary owners. Expect to find your dog curled up under your feet, lounging underneath the windowsill, or bringing you toys in the hopes that you’ll play a round of fetch. Start building your bond with your dog early, and you’ll enjoy a close relationship for the rest of their life.

How to Take Care of a Gerberian Shepsky

Gerberian Shepskies are large dogs that need plenty of exercise. In addition to owning a yard, you should also take your dog for at least one or two hour-long walks every day. These dogs love attention and suffer from separation anxiety, so prepare to keep your dog right by your side.

The Best Dog Food for Gerberian Shepskies

Because they’re large and energetic dogs, they tend to burn a lot of calories. Look for high-protein and/or high-energy dog food made with healthy ingredients. Alternatively, you can cook homemade food with lean meats, green vegetables, and whole grains. These dogs need slightly larger portions than most pups; however, if you notice a steady stream of nervous or destructive behavior, it might be a sign that your dog is eating too much for the amount of exercise that they are getting.

The A-Z Animals recommendation for the best dog food for Gerberian Shepskies is Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Sensitive Skin & Stomach with Probiotics, Salmon Dry Dog Food.

That’s because of the high-protein salmon recipe that delivers quality nutrition to keep this active working breed on its feet. The joints will be well taken care of thanks to the twofold support of glucosamine and an omega-3 fatty acid called EPA. Plus, omega-6 fatty acids nourish the skin and coat, while probiotics aid digestion for a hearty immune system from the inside out.

Check Chewy or Amazon for this product.

Maintenance and Grooming

Like its parent breed the Siberian Husky, the Gerberian Shepsky is a heavy shedder that should be brushed at least twice a week. When the weather starts to warm up, take your dog to the groomer; a summer haircut will do a lot to keep your canine cool and comfortable. You should also trim your dog’s nails and brush their teeth on a monthly basis. Finally, don’t forget to inspect your dog’s ears and clean them regularly to prevent infections.

Training

Gerberian Shepskies are loyal dogs that love to follow their owner’s commands. However, because these dogs tend to become hyper-focused, you may have to spend extra time training them to respond to your voice instead of to outside distractions. Start working with your dog as soon as you bring them home. Be careful to make sure that you only issue commands if your dog is capable of following through on them, and build habits of quick recall and immediate obedience. With a little time and patience, your dog will quickly respond to every command.

Exercise

These dogs are far too active to live in apartments. Make sure your dog has a large yard where it can run around and play. In addition, you should take your dog on one or two hour-long walks every day. Don’t forget to provide plenty of ropes, balls, and other chew toys. Dog toys are a great way to help active pets burn off steam and prevent them from engaging in destructive behaviors.

Puppies

The puppies are adventurous and energetic. Keep an eye on yours to make sure they don’t get into trouble. You should also start working on basic commands and quick recall early on to get your puppy used to responding to your voice. These dogs get big fast; if you want to get the most out of their puppy days, consider starting a growth chart.

Gerberian Shepskies and Children

Gerberian Shepskies are sweet and playful dogs, but they are far too large and energetic to interact with small children. Only let your kids play with these dogs if they are comfortable with large animals and know how to respect a dog’s boundaries.

Dogs Similar to Gerberian Shepskies

The Gerberian Shepsky is a rare designer hybrid with many desirable traits. If you’re looking for something similar, try adopting one of the parent breeds or another herding dog like the Australian Shepherd.

• German Shepherd – A classic working breed, the German Shepherd is a beloved part of families across the world.
• Australian Shepherd – The Australian Shepherd is slightly smaller than the German Shepherd and has a playful and jovial personality.
• Siberian Husky – With fluffy white fur and big blue eyes, the Siberian Husky is one of the most impressive and loyal dogs on the market.

Popular Names for Gerberian Shepskies

Gerberian Shepskies like names that are sweet, playful, and easy to pronounce. Popular names for them include:

• Benson
• Brownie
• Cosmo
• Chloe
• Piper
• Echo
• Bandit
• Ariel
• Clover