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The Husky Pitbull Mix - A Comprehensive Guide

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The Husky Pitbull Mix - A Comprehensive Guide

The Husky Pitbull Mix - A Comprehensive Guide | Innovet Pet

The husky pitbull mix, otherwise known as the Pitsky, is a medium to large size crossbreed. As the name implies, the Pitsky is a mix between an American Pitbull Terrier and Alaskan or Siberian Husky. This breed can live up to 12-15 years and has a friendly and loving personality.

Just as it’s origin breeds, the dog can be very active and is very talented with guarding, hunting, racing, and sledding. However, this dog breed will require an experienced and active pet owner.

Due to the Husky’s nature, the Pitsky will need a reasonably large yard to get sustainable exercise.

When the word “Pitbull” comes to mind, sadly we think of aggressiveness. The fact is that the Pitbull is a loving breed if appropriately realize with effective training and early socialization.

Thus, the Pitsky is very even-tempered and non-aggressive with the proper training set in place in the early stages of its development.

Cross Breeds

You may have heard of the following terms when it comes to canines:

  • Purebred
  • Crossbreed
  • Mixed-breed

But what exactly are they and what are the differences? We’re going to lightly cover each type of breed.

The Husky Pitbull Mix - A Comprehensive Guide | Innovet Pet

Purebred

A purebred is an animal that is bred from parents of the same breed or variety - think of it as a pure line of a specific breed. A Golden Retriever is an example of a purebred, and to get a purebred Golden Retriever, the dam and sire must contain 100% pure genes from the Golden Retriever.

That means that nowhere down the line of genetics must the dam and sire have been bred with another breed other than the Golden Retriever.

Crossbreed

A crossbreed is a mix of two different purebreds. An example is the Husky Pitbull mix or the Pitsky that we will cover in this article. Other examples of crossbreeds include the Pomsky (Pomeranian and Husky), Cockapoo (Cocker Spaniel and Poodle), Labradoodle (Labrador Retriever and Poodle), or the Puggle (Pug and Beagle) - the list goes on.

Mixed Breed

A mixed breed, otherwise known as a mongrel or mutt, is a mix between a dam and sire whose origins are unknown. Often, mixed breeds, or mongrels, do not have a known purebred ancestor.

The most distinct factor in a mixed-breed dog is that no officially recognized breed can be distinguished, as the characteristics are often mixed throughout the ancestry of the mutt.

The Husky Pitbull Mix - A Comprehensive Guide | Innovet Pet

The Husky

There are many different types of huskies, including the Alaskan Husky, Alaskan Malamute, Siberian, and many more. The most distinct feature of the Husky line is the significant wolfish characteristics. The Husky is a typically large breed and can weigh anywhere from 35 - 100 pounds depending on the type of husky.

Huskies are generally very strong and active dogs ideal for sledding and racing and have very thick coats as they had originated from frigid climates. The husky is also very gentle and friendly, and may not make the most ideal watchdog.

The Husky Pitbull Mix - A Comprehensive Guide | Innovet Pet

The Pitbull

The Pitbull was initially bred in Britain as fighting dogs, but the Pitbull is very affectionate, loving, and healthy dogs with the proper training and socialization. Like the husky, there are also many types of Pitbulls, including, but not limited to, the American Pitbull Terrier, the American Bulldog, and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

The Pitbull is a medium-sized dog and is distinguished by its distinct muscle structure and square-shaped head. The Pitbull is also very loyal, friendly, confident, alert, and courageous, and though may be a bit on the heavier side, will try to be a lap dog.


The Pitsky - Husky and Pitbull Mix

We’ve covered that the Pitsky is a crossbreed mix between the Husky and the Pitbull - more specifically, a mix between the American Pitbull and the Siberian Husky, but we’re also going to cover things you should know according to their needs, their characteristics, health concerns, and more if you plan on introducing a Pitsky to your home and family.

Appearance

As mentioned earlier at a glance, the Pitsky is a medium to large size breed and can typically weigh an average of 35 to 80 lbs. As with all crossbreeds, the Pitsky may resemble either of the parents - the American Pitbull or the Siberian Husky, depending on which genes are inherited.

The Pitsky has almond-shaped eyes and a long muscle, much like the Husky. The ears are often erect with a broad head, and a body that is compact and short, but sturdy.

The coat may be inherited from either the Husky or Pitbull and you may have a Pitsky with a coat that is similar to a pit bull and short and smooth, or to that of the Husky, which can be long and woolly.

The Husky Pitbull Mix - A Comprehensive Guide | Innovet Pet

Exercise and Training Needs

Much like that of the Pitsky’s parents, the Pitsky is an active dog and has very high levels of energy and enthusiasm - we recommend highly active pet owners or an owner who can commit an adequate amount of time to ensure a minimum of at least 2 hours of physical activity on a regular and daily basis.

This doesn’t necessarily mean strenuous activity, but going for a good, long jog or walk can be sufficient. Other ideal activities may include hiking, biking, or fast-paced activities as the Pitsky likes to chase and run at incredible speeds due to the Husky’s nature. If you have a yard, even a long game of catching a ball would do.

An important thing to keep note of is that the Pitsky is a smart but pack dog. When it comes to training your Pitsky, you should establish as early as possible that you, the owner, are the pack leader.

The pack instinct may drive your Pitsky pup to want to establish her authority, and it is ideal to get this clear during the earlier stages of puppy growth development.

Training a Pitsky can be easy, because of their smart and eager to please nature. Your best bet will be to provide a lot of reinforcement during training sessions, along with consistent and routine training to keep her on track.

It is also important to socialize your pup during the early stages of development and essential to shaping any puppy into a well-behaved dog when it comes to other members of the family, friends, strangers, and dogs. The last thing you want is a sweet and loving dog at home, but uncontrollable during a walk due to lack of socialization.

General Information

The average Pitsky will need to be fed a minimum of at least 3 to 4 cups of high-quality dry dog food and divided into two main meals to ensure that your pet is living with the adequate nutrients to promote better health and a healthy, long life.

A pit bull husky mix puppy may be an infrequent to frequent barker or howl occasionally, making him an ideal watchdog due to his attentiveness.

The price range of this particular crossbreed can be anywhere from $150 to $2,000 for the pup himself. Other costs, such as medical costs will be about $450 to $600 for shots, vaccines, flea prevention, and insurance checkups. Additional costs for food, training, toys, and treats may add up to another additional $500-$600.

The Husky Pitbull Mix - A Comprehensive Guide | Innovet Pet

Grooming

One important thing to know before getting any dog is to be wary about allergies. The Pitsky is a moderate to heavy shedder which may cause issues if you are suffering from allergies.

This also means that you will be spending some time having to clean up during each shedding of the coat. It is also recommended to regularly brush his coat with a solid bristle brush. Doing this will not only slightly aid in the management of the shedding fur, but also maintain the coat’s softness.

As with any other dog, bathing will need to be done as needed. The teeth of your pet should be brushed every other day, and maintained with a dental spray if your pet has foul breath.

PURBREATH NO BRUSH, PET ORAL CARE GEL | Innovet Pet Products

If you find that your pet doesn’t quite like the idea of getting his teeth brushed, we recommend you check out Innovet's PurBreath No-Brush Pet Oral Care Spray for your dog’s dental health.

The ears should also be inspected and thoroughly cleaned on a weekly basis with a natural dog ear cleaning solution as you don’t want to risk negligence that could lead to an ear infection or ear health issues.

Home Requirements

The habitat or living spaces will matter much when it comes to your Pitsky. The last thing you would want is to be a relatively large sized canine living in a tiny, enclosed living space.

The most ideal home for a Pitsky, as they can grow to be relatively large, is a medium to a significantly sized house with a fenced or enclosed backyard. A living space like this will provide the ideal amount of room for your Pitsky to be able to run when he may feel any lack of physical activity due to his energetic and enthusiastic personality.

The last thing you would want to happen is to come home with a destructive tornado had passed by your living room, only to find out that is was Fido who had a sudden burst of energy and nowhere to vent it out!

Health Concerns

As with any canine, certain breeds can be predisposed to specific health risks. The parents of the Pitsky, the American Pitbull Terrier and the Siberian Husky, are often at risk for allergies, eye health problems, heart disease, hip dysplasia, and hypothyroidism.

The Pitsky pup will be likely to inherit any of the health issues his parents are at risk for, and it’s essential that you are aware of the risks and signs to look out for.

The Husky Pitbull Mix - A Comprehensive Guide | Innovet Pet

The Highlights of an American Pitbull Terrier and Siberian Husky Crossbreed Mix

The pitbull and the husky mix are one of the most loyal and intelligent dog breeds, but with it, also comes great responsibility. We encourage aspiring pet owners to thoroughly research on breeds before adopting one.

The following is important information at a glance if you are planning on adopting a Pitsky and deciding whether or not the breed will fit your lifestyle.

Breed: Pitbull-Husky Mix
Abbreviation: Pitsky
Breed Type: Crossbreed
Average Lifespan: 12 - 15 years
Health Concerns: Allergies, Eye Health issues, Hip Dysplasia, Heart Disease, Hypothyroidism
Coat Type: Short and Shiny, Long and Woolen
Coat Appearance: Short and soft or dense
Coat Colors: Typically darker shades, but color may vary
Grooming: Moderate to High
Shedding: Moderate - Frequent
Tolerance to Temperature: For a pit bull coat, the tolerance may be moderate to cold and excellent if the husky’s coat is inherited. Tolerance is good towards heat.
Training: Relatively Easy to Train
Good with Other Dogs?: Yes, if properly socialized at an early age
Good with Children?: Yes, if properly socialized at an early age
Barking Noise: Maybe infrequent to frequent, may also howl
Suitable for an Apartment?: Low to moderate, best for homes with a yard due to activity and physical needs.
Roaming?: Maybe average to high
Exercise Needs: Extremely High - at least 2 hours of semi-intensive exercise daily
Hypo-allergic?: No
Suitable for First Time Dog Owners?: Fairly good to moderate

FAQs

Is the Pitsky a Healthy Breed?

There is a lot of confusion between a purebred and a non-purebred dog, but the reality is that all dogs are exposed to certain health issues and risks, despite their breed.

The Pitsky is known to develop any of the following:

  • Allergies
  • Eye problems
  • Heart disease
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism

The Husky Pitbull Mix - A Comprehensive Guide | Innovet Pet

Does a Pitbull and Husky Mix do well with children and/or other pets?

The original breeds of the Pitsky are both loving and friendly, which makes them ideal with children. At the same time, however, they have protective qualities and instinct to protect their owners.

It is important that you socialize and properly train your Pitsky while they are puppies as early as possible to get them accustomed to both children and other pets.

What is the average cost of a Pitsky?

As with any puppy, they can get costly and it is important that you know the average price range as some dogs are more expensive than others in terms of the cost of the breed itself, medical, and miscellaneous costs. The average price range of a Pitsky is anywhere from $150 - $2,000, not including miscellaneous costs

When should I start training my Pitsky puppy?

It is best to begin training a Pitsky puppy as early as possible. This is because puppies are at their highest peak when it comes to training and learning. The most important part of training is socializing your pet with children, other pets (especially dogs, so that their time at the dog park is a pleasant one!), and other people in general for when you have friends and family over, or are out for a walk or going to an event.

What are some tips to owning a Pitsky?

  1. Pitskys are strong and sturdy dogs and will require a high protein diet - be sure to provide high-quality dry dog food.
  2. Training during the puppy stage is an essential part to being a responsible pet owner and ensuring that your pup raises to become a well-behaved adult dog.
  3. It’s important that you introduce playtime during the puppy stage, and even when they are young adults.
  4. You need to teach your pitsky that it is okay to be separated from you. This breed can be protective, and you must teach at an early age that it is totally found when you are separated from your pup, in instances where you will have to leave your dog at home. Failure to implement this with your dog may result in separation anxiety.
  5. Be sure to groom your pup regularly, especially if your Pitsky has a long, woolly coat. Don’t forget to check the ears weekly to prevent ear infections, and bathe as needed.

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