The Siberian
is a medium-sized dog, slightly longer than tall. Height ranges from 20 to 23 1/2 inches and weight from 35 to 60 pounds.
Siberian Huskies are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, ranking fourth in our 2019 analysis, thanks to their distinctive eyes and boundless energy.
This episode of About The Breed explores the ancestry of the Siberian Husky, the temperament of the breed, and frequently asked questions.
Physical Traits and Health of Siberian Huskies
Siberian Huskies are a working breed of dog and are considered to be “medium” breeds. Though they appear larger due to their fluffy coats. Males are between 45 and 65 pounds, and females range from 35 to 55 pounds. Both are around two feet tall at the shoulder.
Huskies have a slightly longer lifespan (12–15 years) than many large breed dogs due to their slightly smaller size and active lifestyle. They have a very thick double coat that helps to insulate them in warmer climates and keeps them warm in colder climates. Intriguingly, Siberian Huskies behave remarkably similarly to cats in that they thoroughly lick, groom, and clean themselves. They only require a bath a few times a year because of this.
Siberian Huskies are a generally healthy breed especially in comparison to other purebred dogs. They are not especially prone to weight gain. The one thing to be aware of is the possibility of juvenile cataracts. The National Breed Club recommends having ophthalmologist evaluation and hip evaluation. You can read their breed club’s health statement here.
What Is a Husky’s Full Size?
Understanding a Husky’s full size will help you decide whether or not they are the right fit for you in terms of exercise needs, diet, and overall personality.
In general, a male Husky is between the ages of 21 and 23. The average height of a woman is 20 to 22 inches. The female is between 35 and 50 pounds, and the male weighs between 45 and 60 pounds.
It’s crucial to note that these measurements are only averages because it is possible to find Huskies that are larger or smaller than this, especially if they are not purebred.
In comparison to male Huskies, female Huskies are typically only marginally smaller on average. Despite the fact that female Huskies are only slightly smaller, they typically weigh much less.
It is still possible for female Huskies to be larger and heavier than male Huskies, despite the fact that this is the norm.
Due to selective breeding, some Huskies may be heavier than average, so keep that in mind. For example, some breeders strive to create larger Huskies for sled pulling.
Shepsky
The Shepsky is a shepherd cross breed that is supported by the American Canine Hybrid Club, despite not being recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). It is a cross between the Siberian Husky and the German Shepherd.
The Shepsky is roughly the same size as the Siberian Husky, standing between 20 and 24 inches tall at the shoulder, though they may appear larger if they have inherited the German Shepherd’s more robust build.
These dogs, also referred to as Gerberian Shepskys, differ more from one another than most crossbreeds, particularly in terms of temperament. Some might exhibit the loyalty and intelligence of the German Shepherd, while others might more closely resemble their Husky parent due to their loving yet independent behavior.
Whatever personality traits your Shepsky has, one thing is undeniable – there will be a lot of shedding and a lot of hair in your home. These dogs “seem to take pride in leaving a layer of fur on everything they touch,” so aren’t ideal for those with allergies or an aversion to housework.
Shepskys are athletic, intelligent, and devoted creatures that require a lot of mental and physical exercise. In the absence of that, they might turn destructive, seriously harming shoes, furniture, and pretty much anything else they can get their teeth into.
A Shepsky can easily fit into family life, especially a large one with the manpower to handle their high-energy mischief, despite not being ideal for a first-time owner.
FAQ
What is considered a large dog?
According to this standard, a dog must weigh at least 50 pounds (sometimes even 70 pounds) and be at least 24 inches tall to qualify as a large-breed dog. Some popular large-dog breeds include: Afghan Hound. Bloodhound.
What is considered a large husky?
Male Siberian Huskies are typically between 21 and 24 inches tall and 45 to 60 pounds at full size, while females can reach heights of 20 to 22 inches and weigh 35 to 50 pounds.
What is the closest breed to a husky?
Huskies and Malamutes are two hard-working Spitz breeds that originated in arctic climates, and they resemble one another remarkably.
What makes a dog a husky?
The Siberian Husky is a medium-sized working sled dog breed. The breed belongs to the Spitz genetic family. It is smaller than the similarly shaped Alaskan Malamute and is easily distinguished by its thickly furred double coat, upright triangular ears, and distinctive markings.