Australian Shepherd Husky

The Australian Shepherd Husky is an intelligent and energetic hybrid breed which has a lifespan of 12 to 15 years.

Australian Shepherd Husky Breed overview

Australian Shepherd Huskies are a unique breed that require an experienced owner with an active lifestyle. While they can be challenging to train and care for, they make fantastic companions for those who are willing to invest the time and effort to keep them happy and healthy. With their playful and energetic personalities, they thrive on human interaction and require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy.

Height:
18-25 inches
Weight:
40-65 lbs
Life expectancy:
12-15 years

What To Expect When Caring For a Australian Shepherd Husky

Nutrition

The Australian Shepherd Husky requires a balanced diet of high-quality protein and fats to support their high energy levels.

It is important to feed them an appropriate amount of food to maintain a healthy weight.

Consulting with a veterinarian can help determine the appropriate diet for your individual dog.

Exercise

The Australian Shepherd Husky has high energy levels and requires daily exercise and mental stimulation.

This breed enjoys activities such as hiking, running, and playing fetch.

They do best in a home with a large fenced yard where they can run and play safely.

Grooming

The Aussie Husky has a thick double coat that sheds regularly, so they require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangles.

They do not require frequent bathing unless they become dirty or their coat becomes matted.

Nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing should also be a part of their grooming routine.

Health

The Australian Shepherd Husky is generally a healthy breed with a lifespan of 12-15 years.

However, they are prone to certain health conditions including hip dysplasia, eye problems, and allergies.

Training

The Aussie Husky is an intelligent breed that responds well to positive reinforcement training methods.

Early socialization and consistent training are important to prevent destructive behavior.

This breed excels in activities such as obedience, agility, and herding.

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Australian Shepherd Husky Traits & Characteristics

The Australian Shepherd Husky is recognized by the Dog Registry of America and American Canine Hybrid Club.

However, as a hybrid breed, they do not have specific breed standards.

Their height ranges from 20 to 25 inches and their weight ranges from 35 to 65 pounds.

Affection

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

independent lovey-dovey

Australian Shepherd Huskies are known to be extremely affectionate and loving towards their families. They thrive on human attention and love to be constantly by their owner's side. They will demand attention and often nudge their owners to pet them or play with them.

Children

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

not suitable for kids great with kids

Australian Shepherd Huskies are generally good with children, but due to their herding instincts, they may try to herd younger kids. They have a lot of energy and can be quite rambunctious, so may accidentally knock over smaller children. Supervision is recommended.

Dogs

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

not dog friendly very dog friendly

Australian Shepherd Huskies are generally friendly towards other dogs, but early socialization is important. As they have a strong prey drive, they may not get along with smaller animals or cats.

Strangers

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

Australian Shepherd Huskies are generally friendly towards strangers, but early socialization is important. As they are protective of their families, they may be suspicious of unknown people.

Playfulness

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

laid-back very playful

Australian Shepherd Huskies are extremely playful and energetic. They require a lot of exercise and playtime to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. They love to play fetch, run around and explore their surroundings.

Alertness

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

less alert very alert

Australian Shepherd Huskies are highly alert and have excellent senses. They make great watchdogs and will alert their owners to any changes in their environment.

Adaptability

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

less adaptable very adaptable

Australian Shepherd Huskies can adapt to different environments, but they do require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. They may become destructive or anxious if left alone for extended periods of time.

Shedding

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

no shedding hair everywhere

Australian Shepherd Huskies shed quite heavily and require regular brushing to maintain their coat. They shed seasonally, so twice-yearly shedding can be quite extreme.

Grooming

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

low maintenance high maintenance

Australian Shepherd Huskies require regular grooming due to their thick coat, including daily brushing and the occasional bath or trim. Neglecting their grooming can lead to matted fur and potential skin problems.

Drooling

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

dry mouthed heavy drooler

Australian Shepherd Huskies are not known to be droolers and have a relatively dry mouth compared to other breeds.

Size

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

very small very large

Australian Shepherd Huskies are a medium-large breed, weighing between 40-60 pounds and ranging from 20-24 inches in height.

Energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

couch potato high energy

Australian Shepherd Huskies are high energy dogs who require plenty of exercise and activity. They make great running partners and love to go on long hikes or explore the outdoors.

Exercise

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

low exercise needs high exercise needs

Australian Shepherd Huskies require a lot of exercise and activity to maintain their physical and mental health. Daily exercise, playtime and mental stimulation are necessary to keep them happy and healthy.

Working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

not suitable for working great for working

Australian Shepherd Huskies were bred to be working dogs and excel at herding, tracking, and other working activities. They are happiest when they have a job to do.

Hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

Australian Shepherd Huskies are not natural hunters and do not have a strong prey drive. They are more suited to herding and working activities.

Vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

low-drive high vigor

Australian Shepherd Huskies have a lot of energy and are known for their stamina and endurance. They are well-suited to long hikes, runs, and other high-energy activities.

Health

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

less healthy very healthy

Australian Shepherd Huskies are generally healthy dogs, but may be prone to certain conditions like hip dysplasia, epilepsy and eye problems.

Obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

Australian Shepherd Huskies are prone to obesity if they do not receive enough exercise, as well as an appropriate diet. A good exercise program and diet are key to keeping them at a healthy weight.

Cold

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

Australian Shepherd Huskies have a thick coat and are well suited to colder climates. They love to play in the snow and can tolerate sub-zero temperatures with relative ease.

Heat

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

Australian Shepherd Huskies are not well suited to hot climates, as their thick coat makes it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. Adequate shade and water are necessary to prevent heat stroke.

Apartment

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

Australian Shepherd Huskies are not well suited to apartment living, as they require large amounts of exercise and mental stimulation daily. Without proper exercise or play, they may become anxious and destructive.

Wanderlust

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

less likely to wander very likely to wander

Australian Shepherd Huskies have a tendency to wander and explore, so a secure fence or leash is recommended when outside. They enjoy going on walks and exploring their surroundings, meaning adequate supervision is necessary.

Sensitivity

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

less sensitive very sensitive

Australian Shepherd Huskies are moderately sensitive and can become stressed if exposed to harsh or critical training methods. Positive reinforcement and patience are key when working with this breed.

Separation

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

Australian Shepherd Huskies do not like to be left alone for long periods of time and can become anxious or destructive if they do not have enough mental stimulation or exercise. They thrive on human interaction and attention.

Barking

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

quiet very vocal

Australian Shepherd Huskies are not excessive barkers, but they may bark to alert their owners of changes to their environment or if they are feeling anxious.

Mental

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

Australian Shepherd Huskies have a high need for mental stimulation and enjoy activities that challenge their intelligence. They enjoy learning new tricks and participating in dog sports.

Novice_owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Australian Shepherd Huskies are not recommended for novice owners. They require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, and can often be stubborn and challenging to train. Experienced owners with an active lifestyle are a better match.

Trainability

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

difficult to train easy to train

Australian Shepherd Huskies are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them fairly easy to train. However, due to their stubborn streak, consistency and patience are key when training them.

Affection

independent lovey-dovey

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

Australian Shepherd Huskies are known to be extremely affectionate and loving towards their families. They thrive on human attention and love to be constantly by their owner's side. They will demand attention and often nudge their owners to pet them or play with them.

Children

not suitable for kids great with kids

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

Australian Shepherd Huskies are generally good with children, but due to their herding instincts, they may try to herd younger kids. They have a lot of energy and can be quite rambunctious, so may accidentally knock over smaller children. Supervision is recommended.

Dogs

not dog friendly very dog friendly

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

Australian Shepherd Huskies are generally friendly towards other dogs, but early socialization is important. As they have a strong prey drive, they may not get along with smaller animals or cats.

Strangers

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

Australian Shepherd Huskies are generally friendly towards strangers, but early socialization is important. As they are protective of their families, they may be suspicious of unknown people.

Playfulness

laid-back very playful

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

Australian Shepherd Huskies are extremely playful and energetic. They require a lot of exercise and playtime to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. They love to play fetch, run around and explore their surroundings.

Alertness

less alert very alert

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

Australian Shepherd Huskies are highly alert and have excellent senses. They make great watchdogs and will alert their owners to any changes in their environment.

Adaptability

less adaptable very adaptable

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

Australian Shepherd Huskies can adapt to different environments, but they do require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. They may become destructive or anxious if left alone for extended periods of time.

Shedding

no shedding hair everywhere

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

Australian Shepherd Huskies shed quite heavily and require regular brushing to maintain their coat. They shed seasonally, so twice-yearly shedding can be quite extreme.

Grooming

low maintenance high maintenance

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

Australian Shepherd Huskies require regular grooming due to their thick coat, including daily brushing and the occasional bath or trim. Neglecting their grooming can lead to matted fur and potential skin problems.

Drooling

dry mouthed heavy drooler

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

Australian Shepherd Huskies are not known to be droolers and have a relatively dry mouth compared to other breeds.

Size

very small very large

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

Australian Shepherd Huskies are a medium-large breed, weighing between 40-60 pounds and ranging from 20-24 inches in height.

Energy

couch potato high energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

Australian Shepherd Huskies are high energy dogs who require plenty of exercise and activity. They make great running partners and love to go on long hikes or explore the outdoors.

Exercise

low exercise needs high exercise needs

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Australian Shepherd Huskies require a lot of exercise and activity to maintain their physical and mental health. Daily exercise, playtime and mental stimulation are necessary to keep them happy and healthy.

Working

not suitable for working great for working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

Australian Shepherd Huskies were bred to be working dogs and excel at herding, tracking, and other working activities. They are happiest when they have a job to do.

Hunting

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

Australian Shepherd Huskies are not natural hunters and do not have a strong prey drive. They are more suited to herding and working activities.

Vigor

low-drive high vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

Australian Shepherd Huskies have a lot of energy and are known for their stamina and endurance. They are well-suited to long hikes, runs, and other high-energy activities.

Health

less healthy very healthy

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

Australian Shepherd Huskies are generally healthy dogs, but may be prone to certain conditions like hip dysplasia, epilepsy and eye problems.

Obesity

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

Australian Shepherd Huskies are prone to obesity if they do not receive enough exercise, as well as an appropriate diet. A good exercise program and diet are key to keeping them at a healthy weight.

Cold

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

Australian Shepherd Huskies have a thick coat and are well suited to colder climates. They love to play in the snow and can tolerate sub-zero temperatures with relative ease.

Heat

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

Australian Shepherd Huskies are not well suited to hot climates, as their thick coat makes it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. Adequate shade and water are necessary to prevent heat stroke.

Apartment

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

Australian Shepherd Huskies are not well suited to apartment living, as they require large amounts of exercise and mental stimulation daily. Without proper exercise or play, they may become anxious and destructive.

Wanderlust

less likely to wander very likely to wander

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

Australian Shepherd Huskies have a tendency to wander and explore, so a secure fence or leash is recommended when outside. They enjoy going on walks and exploring their surroundings, meaning adequate supervision is necessary.

Sensitivity

less sensitive very sensitive

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

Australian Shepherd Huskies are moderately sensitive and can become stressed if exposed to harsh or critical training methods. Positive reinforcement and patience are key when working with this breed.

Separation

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

Australian Shepherd Huskies do not like to be left alone for long periods of time and can become anxious or destructive if they do not have enough mental stimulation or exercise. They thrive on human interaction and attention.

Barking

quiet very vocal

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

Australian Shepherd Huskies are not excessive barkers, but they may bark to alert their owners of changes to their environment or if they are feeling anxious.

Mental

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

Australian Shepherd Huskies have a high need for mental stimulation and enjoy activities that challenge their intelligence. They enjoy learning new tricks and participating in dog sports.

Novice_owners

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

Australian Shepherd Huskies are not recommended for novice owners. They require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, and can often be stubborn and challenging to train. Experienced owners with an active lifestyle are a better match.

Trainability

difficult to train easy to train

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

Australian Shepherd Huskies are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them fairly easy to train. However, due to their stubborn streak, consistency and patience are key when training them.

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History of the Australian Shepherd Husky

The Australian Shepherd Husky is a new breed, and there is not much known about their exact origin.

However, it is believed that they were first bred in the United States in the late 20th century.

This breed was developed to combine the intelligence and agility of the Australian Shepherd with the endurance and strength of the Siberian Husky.

Australian Shepherd Husky Puppies

Aussie Huskies are born with closed ears and eyes, but they will open within 1-2 weeks.

It is important to begin socialization and training early on with this breed to prevent behavioral issues as they mature.

At 6-8 weeks old, puppies should be weaned and ready to go to their new homes.