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Shepsky Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Shepsky so you can get to know the breed more.

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OriginGermany flagGermany Russia flagRussia
Other Names
What other names does the Shepsky have?
Gerberian Shepsky
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Cross Breed

Shepsky Size and Weight

Size
Is a Shepsky small, medium or large dog?

How big do Shepsky get?

What is the average size of a Shepsky?

Large
Weight
How much does the Shepsky weigh? How much should a Shepsky weight? What is the normal weight of a Shepsky? How much does a full-grown Shepsky weight?
45-80 pounds (20-36 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Shepsky?
62.5 pounds (28 kg)
Height
How tall is the Shepsky? Shepsky height:
20-25 inches (51-63 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Shepsky?
22.5 inches (57 cm)

Shepsky Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Shepsky puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Shepsky in the United States? How much money is a Shepsky?

Where to buy a Shepsky with a good pedigree?

$400-$600
If you choose to purchase the Shepsky, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Shepsky for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Shepsky gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Shepsky? How many Shepsky are there in the world?
Frequent: The Shepsky is easier than average to get. Maybe there is some risk of overbreeding, as it is a popular breed.

Due to its popularity, inbreeding may occur. A new study shows that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful and seek the help of an experienced person or a professional, in making your decision.

Shepsky Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Shepsky? Is the Shepsky breed dumb or smart?
Very smart: Shepsky is an excellent dog breed. You can teach them many tricks and commands. The limit is your creativity. They understand and memorize new commands in 5-15 repetitions. This breed obeys the first command 85% of the time or better.

The Shepsky is one of the top breeds in the dog intelligence ranking.

Trainability
Are Shepsky dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Shepsky?
Shepsky dogs are easy to train. They find out the association between commands and actions quite quickly.
Watchdog Ability
Is Shepsky good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Shepsky dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Shepsky dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Shepsky dogs are average defenders. Some dogs are very protective of their territory, while others easily let a stranger to trespass. This breed is not sure to defend its territory in every situation.

Shepsky Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Shepsky have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
EnergeticAlertIntelligentAffectionateLoyal
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Shepsky sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. Shepsky dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Shepsky a good family dog?
High: Shepsky dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Gerberian Shepsky need? Shepsky social needs:
Shepsky dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don't mind being left alone for a few hours either.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Shepsky to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Shepsky roam?
Shepsky dogs tend to escape less than other breeds. They have low to average wanderlust potential. Exploring the world is not the best activity they can imagine.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Shepsky have high prey drive?
Shepsky dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. Cats or any other small animals might be in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Shepsky dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Shepsky Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The Shepsky is a highly playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do Shepsky dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Gerberian Shepsky bark?
Average: The Shepsky barks occasionally. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Shepsky good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Shepsky in an apartment?
Not an apartment-friendly dog the Shepsky breed. If you don't have a garden, think carefully about your decision, keeping Shepsky indoors can cause a lot of problems.

Shepsky Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Shepsky dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Shepsky be left alone? How long can you leave a Shepsky alone?
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner. With proper socialization and quality time with the dog can solve this problem.

Shepsky Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Shepsky has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Shepsky? How much bite force does a Shepsky have? How strong is a Shepsky bite?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Shepsky bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Shepsky measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Shepsky is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Shepsky bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Shepsky bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Shepsky puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Shepsky, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Shepsky bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Shepsky can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Biting Potential
Do Shepsky bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Gerberian Shepsky? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Shepsky? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Shepsky has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Shepsky do?
Shepsky dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Shepsky dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Shepsky Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Shepsky dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
The Shepsky is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Shepsky breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Shepsky breed? Most common health risks of Shepsky:
Hip Dysplasia Patellar LuxationProgressive retinal atrophy (PRA)Epilepsy
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Shepsky breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Shepsky see the vet?
Average
The Shepsky should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Shepsky dogs live? How old can a Shepsky be? What is the age limit of the Shepsky? How many years can the oldest Shepsky live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Shepsky?

How long is the lifespan of a Shepsky?

10-14 years
The average lifespan of Shepsky: 12 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Prefers average to cold weather conditions
The Shepsky can adapt to well to cold weather conditions, some dogs even can be a good mountain dog.

Shepsky Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Shepsky have? What is the activity level of the Shepsky?
Shepsky dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Shepsky need? How much exercise do Shepsky dogs require per day?

Do Shepsky dogs need a lot of exercises?

Shepsky dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Shepsky breed need?
Shepsky dogs don't need too much sleep. They are energetic and desire to live active life. If you think naps are overrated, this breed can be the best choice for you.

Shepsky Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Shepsky need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Shepsky breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Shepsky? How much food should I feed my Shepsky?
3 to 4 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Shepsky risk for obesity:
Low to Average: The Shepsky has a low to the average risk for obesity. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Shepsky weight regularly.

Shepsky Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Shepsky have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
DenseLong
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Shepsky coats?
Black Red Blue Cream White Brown
Grooming
How to groom the Shepsky and how often? How often should I take my Shepsky to the groomer?
Average: The Shepsky requires average grooming effort. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't essential.

Brushing the dog's coat is useful to reduce shedding. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath can be helpful sometimes.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and give your dog a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Shepsky, search for a dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.

Shedding Level
How much do Shepsky dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Gerberian Shepsky? Do Shepsky dogs shed a lot?
Shepsky dogs shed above average. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. The amount and frequency of hair loss mostly depend on their health status and breed type. If you don't like vacuum cleaning, you might have to reconsider your choice of having a puppy from the Shepsky breed.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Shepsky need a bath? How often should you give a Shepsky a bath? Can I bathe my Shepsky every day?
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. According to a study, 56% of pet parents don’t bathe their dogs as frequently as they should, and 60% use the sniff test when deciding when it’s bath time.

Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Shepsky breed hypoallergenic?
Yes
Shepsky dogs do well with allergy sufferers by causing fewer allergic reaction. However there are no 100% hypoallergenic dogs in the world, there are a variety of breeds that are considered to reduce or minimize the possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
No
Shepsky dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Low 🔽

The Shepsky has a low chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Shepsky drool?
The Shepsky is a perfect example of a low drooling tendency. If you dislike being covered by slobber spots on your clothes, the Shepsky could be a good choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool less than others, just like the Shepsky.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Shepsky Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Shepsky dogs get along with other pets? Are Shepsky dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Shepsky dogs usually don’t get on well with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Shepsky temperament with other people:
Shepsky dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Child Friendly
Are Shepsky dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Shepsky temperament with children:
Shepsky dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Shepsky dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Shepsky breed live with a cat?
Shepsky dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Shepsky good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Shepsky dogs get along with other dogs?
Shepsky dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Shepsky breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Shepsky breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Shepsky dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Shepsky dogs good office canines? Do Shepsky dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Shepsky is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Shepsky dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Gerberian Shepsky temperament with senior people? Are Shepsky dogs good for elderly owners?
Shepskys are usually recommended for elderly people.

Shepsky As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Shepsky be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Yes

This breed makes good as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Shepsky breed is a good choice for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Shepsky be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Shepsky be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Shepsky is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Shepsky be a sniffer dog?

Yes

After proper training, they can excel at this kind of work. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Shepsky breed is a good choice for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Shepsky be a search and rescue dog?

Yes

This breed would make an excellent search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and in locating missing people.

The Shepsky breed is a good choice for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Shepsky be a boat dog?

Not really

Shepsky breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Shepsky be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Shepsky is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Shepsky dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Shepsky Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Shepsky pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Shepsky breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Shepsky: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Shepsky have in a litter? How many puppies can the Shepsky breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Shepsky have? How many puppies can a Shepsky give birth to?
6-10 puppies

Shepsky Recognition

AKC Group
Is Shepsky recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Is Shepsky recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Not recognized by FCI.
Breed Recognition
What kennel clubs and organizations recognize or register the Shepsky breed?
Dog Registry of America Inc.American Canine Hybrid Club

Shepsky Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligent Rank: Very smart: Shepsky is an excellent dog breed.
  • Trainability: Shepsky dogs are easy to train.
  • Hypoallergenic: Shepsky dogs do well with allergy sufferers by causing fewer allergic reaction.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Shepsky is a perfect example of a low drooling tendency.
  • Stinkiness: The Shepsky has a low chance of bad smell.
  • Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: Low to Average: The Shepsky has a low to the average risk for obesity.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: Shepsky dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
  • Adaptability: Shepsky dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments.
  • Child Friendly: Shepsky dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Shepskys are usually recommended for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Shepsky dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
  • Service Dog: This breed makes good as a service dog.
  • Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog: After proper training, they can excel at this kind of work.
  • Search and Rescue Dog (SAR): This breed would make an excellent search and rescue dog.
Cons
  • Apartment Friendly: Not an apartment-friendly dog the Shepsky breed.
  • Shedding Level: Shepsky dogs shed above average.
  • Mouthiness: Shepsky dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
  • Cat Friendly: Shepsky dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Shepsky is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Shepsky History

The exact origin of the designer dogs is always surrounded by a lot of mystery. The trend of creating new hybrid breeds started around the 1980s, in North America, with crossbreeding purebred dogs in order to create new breeds. These hybrid dogs were an instant hit because they always inherited the best and most desirable qualities and traits of their ancestors. Even though there are always disadvantages to these new hybrid breeds, designer dogs became insanely popular in the last 30 years. Unfortunately, this popularity does not mean, that we know every detail about these hybrid breed’s ancestry, and the intention which led the breeder to develop these dogs.

Being said that, the Shepsky, also known as the Gerbarian Shepsky is a hybrid breed, which was a result of the Siberian Husky and the German Shepherd. These breeds are two of the most popular breeds of all times, with long histories and detailed careful breeding processes. On the one hand, the German Shepherd finds its origins in Germany, from the late 1800s. The breed was initially used to herd livestock around the farms. Later on, the dogs became employed in several different industries, including the army, the police, and in search and rescue operations. The breed’s intelligence, strong work ethic, and physical attractiveness were always recognized by the people. On the other hand, the Siberian Husky is a truly ancient breed, originating from the Arctic, from multiple thousands of years ago. On these icy lands, the dogs provided transport and courier services via sledding, thus being an integral and indispensable part of society. The breed was also herding reindeer, guarding livestock and property, and hunting for their owners in the remote areas.

Over time, mostly in the United States and in Canada, both of these breeds’ roles transformed from working to being family pets. Both of the parent breeds are recognized by most of the major kennel clubs, including the AKC (American Kennel Club) and the UKC (United Kennel Club). Together, these dogs formed an incredibly attractive, high-spirited, hard-working hybrid breed; the Shepsky. This hybrid breed first gained recognition when a Shepsky, an FBI therapy dog, named Dolce, was stationed in the FBI’s Memphis division, stealing everyone’s hearts. The Shepsky got registered in the American Canine Hybrid Club, and in the Dog Registry of America

Even though the Gerbarian Shepsky is a result of two AKC-recognized breeds, it does not mean an automatic recognition for it as well. For the time being, the Shepsky puppies’ appearance is unpredictable, and not homogenous, thus it is difficult to draw a breed standard yet, although some trends are already emerging. Therefore, the breed does not have any official pedigree papers, so it is hard to find reputable and trustworthy breeders.

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