Whether or not we admit it, dog breeds play an essential role in our decision-making when getting a dog.
Their breed says a lot about their temperament and needs, and compatibility is crucial. If you’ve been eyeing a Pitbull-Husky mix, also known as Pitsky puppies, keep reading!
Husky-Pitbull Mix: Meet the Parent Breeds
Let’s start this article with a fun fact, shall we?
A Pitsky puppy is a product of cross-breeding two known purebred dogs, Pit Bulls, and Siberian Huskies.
Let’s get to know each of them one by one!
Purebred American Pit Bull Terrier
Pit Bulls are a large dog breed. They are also high-energy dogs, which may seem scary to some.
Don’t worry, though! American Pit Bull Terriers are friendly, loyal, and loving.
They can grow between 17 and 21 inches and weigh 85 pounds! Their strong nature makes them good guard dogs and protectors.
That said, this dog breed is often misunderstood and depicted as aggressive. But remember, dogs don’t act out for no reason at all.
Pit Bulls are prone to separation anxiety. As a result, they may release the stress by destroying home furniture like couches and carpets.
They are also susceptible to health problems like hip dysplasia and allergies.
Purebred Siberian Husky
Opposite to Pit Bulls, Huskies are well-loved. They have beautiful physical attributes from their coats to their eyes.
Don’t be surprised if they turn your furniture into chew toys!
A Husky makes a good pack leader and is always reliable. They will take care of your family members well for sure.
But note that they are also vulnerable to diseases like hip dysplasia, cataracts, etc.
Clarification: Alaskan Husky
Allow us to make a clarification so as not to confuse you!
The American Kennel Club (AKC) specified that Alaskan Husky is not an actual dog breed but a classification. If you’re looking to understand the differences you can check out these tips.
They are efficient sled dogs often involved in sled-dog racing. Do not confuse them with an Alaskan Malamute!
A pure Pitsky dog breed must be a Pitbull and Siberian Husky mix, not Alaskan Husky.
It’s not impossible to cross-breed a Pitbull and an Alaskan Husky, but don’t expect a pure Husky mix in this case.
Get to Know Pitbull-Husky Mixed Breed Dogs
You get a unique and beautiful Pitsky puppy when the two parents cross. But when two pure breeds cross, expect different offspring characteristics.
From physical to temperament, not all Pitbull-Husky mixes will be the same.
Physical Attributes of a Pitbull Husky Mix
Your breeder won’t be able to guarantee how much your Pitbull-Husky mix will grow. They can give you an average of around 16-25 inches in size and 30-80 pounds in weight.
They usually have erect ears, and their build is short but compact. Like their parent breeds, they look and are strong. Most of them get their eyes from the Husky-mix, beautiful and sharp.
Coats
You can’t be too sure of their coats either. If they inherit more traits from their Pitbull parent, you can expect a short coat Pitsky.
It’s easier to maintain, and a once-a-week brushing will do.
The coat will be thick and harsh if they inherit from their Husky parent. Since Huskies are snow dogs, they need it.
Brush every two days, and remember that they are NOT a low-shedding breed.
Colors will also differ, but dark colors are more common with a Pitbull-Husky mix. But again, it’s not a guarantee.
The Temperament of the Pitbull Husky Mix
A Pitbull-Husky mix is friendly, loving, and affectionate. But of course, to what extent is subjective.
These dogs can bark or intimidate strangers to protect their owners.
But once they become acquainted with you, they’re one of the most playful dog breeds. That said, Pitsky pet owners must know how to handle a Pitbull Husky.
Sometimes, they don’t know how strong they are and when they get all riled up, they may accidentally hurt other pets.
They love the outdoors and are not homebodies! So whether at home or a dog park, keep a close eye on them until they are thoroughly trained and mature.
Separation Anxiety
Both parent-breeds hate being left alone.
The Siberian Husky mix needs interaction because boredom will lead to destructive behaviors.
Socialization Skills
But it’s still recommended to expose them to other dogs and other pets as much as possible for familiarity.
These gods are friendly and protective. They need to understand that not everything and everyone is a threat to them and their respective dog owners.
Obedience Training and Control Over Pitbull Husky Mix
We think the Pitbull Husky mix can be the perfect dog with proper obedience training. Imagine reliable protectors who are within your control.
You don’t have to worry too much because Pitbull-Husky mixes are intelligent.
Although the Siberian Husky side can be a little stubborn, they pick up fast, especially at a young age.
The perfect age to train a Pitbull Husky mix is 6-7 weeks old.
Positive reinforcement is more effective than punishment. Both the Siberian Husky and American Pit Bull Terrier are people-pleasing dogs!
Dog Food and Diet of the Pitbull Husky Mix
A dog’s diet is vital to keep your pet healthy. Since it’s a special breed, we suggest being more careful with what you feed a Pitsky.
Of course, the most basic necessity is to feed them with AAFCO-compliant dog food. For additional nutrition, consulting with your veterinarian is essential.
Generally, this designer dog requires high-quality dog food. Healthy dogs won’t be cheap!
We suggest three to four cups of dry dog food. Depending on their size, the appropriate calories per day range from 600 to 1,400. Some recommended dog food brands by owners are:
- Wellness Core Air Dried Dog Food
- Avoderm Natural Dog Food
- Dog Protein Powder
- Canidae Grain-Free Pure
- Purina Pro Plan
- Taste of the Wild High Prarie
- Bully Max High Performance
- Honest Kitchen
But then again, always consult your vets first. Some Pitbull Husky mix needs dog food with special formulations, significantly larger dogs.
Keeping tabs on your dog’s weight is also essential. Small dogs that are too heavy aren’t good either. Ensure that you balance it with adequate exercise for every dog food meal.
Additionally, the American Pit Bull Terrier is prone to allergies.
Knowing the conditions of the Husky or Pitbull parent will help you determine which food is recommendable for your Pitbull Husky mix.
Pitbull Husky Mix Health Problems
Both Siberian Husky and Pit Bull are prone to certain diseases. A common similarity is hip dysplasia. Whatever parent breed they inherit dominantly, expect this condition to occur.
Other illnesses to prepare for are:
- Hypothyroidism: watch out for breathing problems and wheezing. Seek immediate treatment.
- Cataract: can be inherited from the Husky parent.
- Other eye problems: pit bulls are prone to retinal dysplasia.
- Demodectic mange: inflammation caused by parasites.
- Allergies: both parents are prone to skin diseases.
- Skin conditions
- Heart problems: can be avoided by proper care. More common among older Pitskies.
The lifespan of a Husky Pitbull is average. They can live up to 12 to 15 healthy years, especially if you take care of them properly and shower them with lots of love!
Exercise for Pitbull Husky Mix Dogs
The size of a Husky Pitbull mix is generally medium to large. Thanks to their Siberian Husky and Pit Bull Terrier parents, they are strong and muscular.
Daily exercise and a 30-minute walk are healthy for them.
These strengthen the muscles and avoid the much-dreaded hip dysplasia common among them.
On top of physical exercise, mental stimulation must also be regular. Reviewing tricks and testing skills will help them be sharper and ease boredom.
In turn, these will also develop their behaviours and avoid destructive ones.
While other dog breeds tend to sleep most of the day, a Pitbull Husky requires at least two hours of being active in a day.
We suggest allotting a time of the day dedicated to walking and playing with your Husky Pitbull mix.
Exercise is also vital to avoid the development of health problems. We don’t just mean physically, but also mentally.
Restricting them from their natural needs will cause stress and may even lead to depression.
Grooming for Husky Pitbull Mix
Designer dogs like the Pitbull Husky mixed breed are high-maintenance. You probably expect this already.
Coat Brushing
If it has more Pitbull mix, you’d be glad to know that their coats and fur don’t need as much attention.
Once or twice a week of brushing will suffice, and professional grooming every few months is good.
But for those with a more dominant Siberian Husky mix, expect a lot of shedding.
We recommend regular home brushing every two days,
Always follow regular professional grooming as prescribed by your vet.
Their coats are thicker than other dogs, so owners must maintain them to prevent matting and other skin conditions like ticks and fleas.
Dental Hygiene
Like humans, oral care for the Husky Pitbull mix is also crucial. If you’re able to brush their teeth once every day, that’s great.
But if situations don’t permit, once a week is fine.
Nail Trimming or Clipping
Nail maintenance should be regular. This isn’t only for your Husky Pitbull but also for the people they will encounter.
Since they are playful, they might accidentally scratch other animals or people. Deep scratches can lead to tetanus.
Trim their nails as often as needed, but keep in mind that some Pitskies may not like the feeling.
Even an adult dog can still be resistant because of either discomfort or don’t like the clippers in general.
It’s normal, and you can find ways and tricks to keep them calm during nail time or reward them after.
Bathing
A Pit Bull Husky should be bathed regularly, but not every day. The generally prescribed frequency is once a month, but this depends on the circumstances.
Ask your veterinarian and disclose the details, such as your environment, activities, and everything, to be safe.
The critical thing to remember here is that bathing too frequently will lead to skin diseases.
Flea Control
Considering the activeness of Pit Bull Huskies, expect fleas and ticks. You’ll never know where they roll around or what they get in contact with!
Be prepared for flea maintenance with some products and shampoo. Again, it’s best if you ask for a vet-prescribed product most suitable for your Pitsky.
You can easily catch the onset of parasites through regular grooming. When you brush and check their coats, be on the lookout for these pests. The earlier you find out, the better.
Toys and Playtime
Any pet is expected to destroy home stuff. But this is especially true for the Husky Pitbull. It’s not because they poorly behave, but because their instinct is to be playful and active.
In knowing this, it’s the responsibility of the owner to look for ways to combat this. One way is to provide them with as many chew toys as possible whenever you’re away.
And we don’t just mean any cheap chew toy; it has to be durable and can endure the strong Pitsky jaws and teeth.
Sleeping Conditions
A Husky Pitbull will appreciate reasonable sleeping accommodations. Beds and home spaces where they can sleep comfortably keep them healthy and happy.
Remember that a cramped space or a cheap bed might trigger their conditions.
Why is this so? This designer breed is vulnerable to joint problems. For some with existing concerns, it might worsen the case.
If you have the space and budget, build them a crate.
It will result in the following benefits:
- Make training more accessible
- Lessen destructive behaviours caused by attachment issues
Confining them in a space that’s theirs will make them feel safer until you come home. And when they do get stressed, they can’t quickly destroy your entire home.
Should You Get a Husky Pitbull?
Now that we know them better, do you think you can handle a Husky Pitbull? Let this section help you.
Get a Pitsky If…
- You don’t have young babies and children at home. A Pitsky may be too big for small children.
- You are more frequently at home than outside. Don’t leave them for more than 5-6 hours.
- You can handle a more active lifestyle. You need to match their energetic demands!
- You can allot time to train and exercise your dog every day.
- You have the budget to keep up with their high-maintenance needs, from vet visits to grooming.
- You are capable of feeding them high-quality food.
- You have enough space in your home for a medium to large dog.
- You don’t mind some broken home stuff from time to time.
- You have the patience to train them or at least the budget to send them to a training school or professional.
Please Don’t Get a Pitsky If…
- You have no idea how to care for a dog.
- You have a baby or small animals at home.
- You have a busy schedule, and you don’t have the time to attend to their daily needs.
- You are frequently not at home or if you’re not based at home.
- You don’t have the patience to go through training and maintenance.
- You don’t have space in your home.
- You can’t deal with a clingy pet.
There are a lot of sacrifices and considerations if you want to start taking care of a Pitbull Husky.
They’re not a short-term commitment, and the responsibilities don’t lessen as they grow older.
As they age, they may be more behaved and mature, but that’s when illnesses will start to develop.
If you’re not ready for 15 years of dedication, we suggest thinking twice before getting a Pitsky.
Pros and Cons
As with other pets, getting a Pitsky comes with benefits and drawbacks. Let’s quickly list down the pros and cons.
Pitsky Pros
- A Pitbull Husky mix is a great dog in general.
- They are loving, friendly, and well-tempered.
- They make good guard dogs if adequately trained.
- They are intelligent dogs.
- They can be trained to protect and become reliable service dogs.
- They are a cross of two premium purebred dog breeds. That’s unique!
Plus, it may be our biases talking, but they can make you happy and keep you company. Doesn’t that outweigh the potential drawbacks?
Pitsky Cons
- They are high-maintenance. Caring for them can be expensive.
- They have attachment issues.
- The AKC dog registry didn’t always recognize them.
- If untrained, they can exhibit destructive behaviors and accidentally hurt others.
Husky Pitbull Mix Frequently Asked Questions [Q&A]
Before we wrap up this ultimate Pitsky guide, let’s address some FAQs that we’ve encountered concerning this topic.
How Much Is a Pitbull Husky Mix?
If you purchase from a breeder, they can cost around $500 to $2,000. For some highly reputable breeders, it might cost more. Since this cross-breed is not registered, there will be a lot of fraud sellers. Be careful!
However, you may also find a Pitsky in rescue shelters, though it’s rare. Since people know the value of such a breed, most will opt to sell them in exchange for good money.
Are Pitbull Huskies Family Dogs?
Yes. Because of their affectionate side, Pitskies are great for families.
They can also be protective, which is always a good thing, especially if they always have children at home.
Although some Pitskies are overly friendly, they can warm up to strangers quickly.
Sometimes, even ill-intentioned people can trick them. Here’s where the training becomes helpful.
Is It True That Pitbulls Turn To Their Owners?
Pit Bull Terriers do have a reputation for aggressiveness. There’s a record of Pit Bulls killing humans. However, this isn’t to say that they are terrible dogs; a good number of the cases are accidents.
As mentioned above, Pit Bulls are strong. They are muscular and are also known as fighter dogs. This is why proper training is essential, so they’ll know when to attack and when to behave.
It’s also the reason why it’s not recommended for families with small children to get Pit Bulls, because accidents may happen.
Are Huskies Aggressive?
They are big and playful, but they’re not known to be aggressive, unlike Pit Bulls.
Though there are some accidental bites and injuries, it’s caused mainly by playtime going overboard.
Dogs are naturally protective, regardless of breed or how friendly they are. There are proper human behaviors that we must also observe when around dogs.
We are the more rational beings, so let’s also be more responsible and careful.
Can a Pitbull Husky Swim?
Both parents are good swimmers.
Naturally, it’s normal to have a Pitsky that loves swimming.
However, don’t just throw them in the water expecting them to swim independently; it’s still subjective.
Some dogs are afraid of the water. If your Pitsky is a rescue, it’s all the more crucial to be careful and considerate of your dog’s potential phobias and triggers.
Are Pitskies Designer Dogs? What’s a Designer Dog?
Another term for “designer dogs” that makes more sense is hybrid dogs. It’s when you mix two purebred dogs intending to achieve a unique breed.
Most breeders do this to sell them at a high price. Some examples are:
– Goldendoodle (Golden Retriever + Poodle)
– Labradoodle (Labrador + Poodle)
– Cockapoo (Cocker Spaniel + Poodle)
– Puggle (Pug + Beagle)
– Schnoodle (Schnauzer + Poodle)
– Yorkipoo (Yorkshire Terrier + Poodle)
– Pomsky (Pomeranian + Siberian Husky)
– Maltipoo (Maltese + Poodle)
– Chorkie (Chihuahua + Yorkie)
– Chug (Chihuahua + Pug)
Crossing two premium and expensive breeds are appealing to many dog owners.
But artificial breeding will cause genetic conditions. This will make them more susceptible to certain illnesses.
Does a Husky Pitbull Make a Good Service Dog?
Yes!
Their loving side provides great emotional support and impressive loyalty towards their owners.
Since they are also clingy and are easily attached, they make great companions.
Again, training is the key. But it’s the dog’s natural traits that make it possible for them to become good service dogs.
How Do You Train a Pitsky Dog Breed?
Exactly how you do it with other breeds. When it comes to training, you need to show authority.
Dogs should know who’s boss and understand that they’re following your rules and not the other way around.
A lot of training goes out of hand because the humans hold back from being authoritative. Dogs can sense that.
If they know that you won’t punish them and can do whatever they want, they will grow stubborn.
This is especially true for young Huskies and Pitskies with a dominant Husky mix. You will also benefit from their instinct to please people, especially their owners.
If you use positive reinforcement rather than punishment, they will follow your commands quickly.
Do Male and Female Pitskies Weigh Differently?
It largely depends on their parent breeds and how their genetic makeup comes out. But generally, this is their average weight:
Female Pitsky: 45 to 60 pounds; 16-21 inches in height
Male Pitsky: 50 to 65 pounds; 17-22 inches in height
Pitbull Husky Mix Summary [TL;DR]
Well, that’s a long read. Here’s a quick recap:
A Pitbull Husky mixes American Pit Bull Terriers and Siberian Huskies. Since both parents are pure breeds, the Pitsky offspring is considered a designer dog.
The purebred crossing leads to multiple trait outcomes, so one Pitsky will look different from another.
The average size and weight for a Pitsky are around 16-22 inches in height and 45-65 pounds in weight.
They require high-maintenance care from food to activities to health attention.
Here’s a brief list of what to do (for detailed explanations, we suggest reading through the headings above):
- Do not leave them unattended for more than six (6) hours.
- Feed them high-quality dog food. Consult your vets for vitamins and unique formulation.
- Give them ample space for sleeping, playing, and lounging.
- Let them exercise and be active for at least two (2) hours a day.
- Daily walks of at least 30 minutes are recommended.
- Engage them in training as young as 6-7 weeks.
- Groom them regularly.
A Pitbull-Husky mix is vulnerable to various illnesses such as:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Allergies
- Skin conditions
- Hypothyroidism
- Eye Diseases and Cataracts
- Heart Problems
It helps to know the existing conditions of the parents, so you’ll know what to expect. Again, it’s on a case-to-case basis. It’s vital to be prepared, especially budget-wise.
In general, a Pitbull Husky is loving, intelligent, and loyal.
They make good family and service dogs because of their temperament, and if trained enough, they can become reliable guard dogs.
Raising a Pitsky is not for everyone. Even if you’re a dog lover, you may have some circumstances that are not apt for taking care of a Husky Pitbull mix.
It’s okay to opt for another breed than getting one and realizing that you need to rehome them.
Final Words
We hope this guide helped your thought process as you decide on whether or not a Pitsky is for you.
One thing’s for sure is that they will bring you happiness, loyalty, and support. It’s only a matter of whether or not you’re up for the challenge of maintaining and caring for them.
Remember to consider the impact of your actions on the dog before you adopt and shop.
Good luck!