Australian Shepherd & Husky Mix: A Beginners Guide

Undoubtedly, an irresistibly cute, four-legged fluff-ball that will melt the hearts of us humans!

The adorably handsome Husky Australian Shepherd is a working-class, designer breed dog – a cross between the dynamic Siberian Husky and the graceful Australian Shepherd. These bubbly dogs inherit some of the best traits from their parents and make exceptionally loyal and loving partners.

Whether you are a new owner of the Husky Australian Shepherd mix or considering them to include in your family, doubts are common. You will probably think if the breed is suitable for you, will they get along with family and children, their characteristics, the ideal living conditions, and more.

So before diving into the details of this gorgeous breed, let us first take a glance at their features and general self.

Husky Australian Shepherd Mix – Highlights At A Glimpse

• Average Height: 20-23 inches
• Average Weight: 50-65 pounds
• Coat Type: Short to medium length
• Coat Texture: Straight or Wavy
• Coat Colors: Blue merle, Black, and Tri-color (tan, black and white)
• Grooming Needs: Moderate- all year round and Heavy- during springtime
• Shedding: Very High
• Brushing Requirements: Daily or at least twice a week
• Excessive Barking: Rare (thanks to Australian Shepherd genes)
• Good Tolerance To Heat And Cold: Yes, very good
• Good Pet: Yes, but it requires early socialization and training
• Safe For Children: Yes, but train your pet
• Good With Other Dogs: Yes, very friendly
• Training: Intelligent & Quick learner
• Exercise Needs: Pretty high
• Tendency To Gain Weight: Modest
• Common Health Concerns: Elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, deafness
• Allergies: Yes
• Average Life Span: 12-15 years

Throughout this article, we will cover everything you need to know about the Husky Australian Shepherd mix.

Origin

The Husky Australian Shepherd mix is a crossbreed between the Australian Shepherd and the Siberian Husky-the two purebreds. Despite its name, the breed originates from the Western US and not Australia.

Breeders intentionally mixed the two parent breeds to create a strong, healthy, and lively companion dog.

Size & Height

Generally, the Husky Australian Shepherd mix weighs between 40-65 pounds and ranges from 18 to 25 inches at the shoulder in height.

Many dogs can be smaller or larger and lighter or heavier than average. You can expect this breed to be in the medium-size range.

Coat

The Husky Australian Shepherd mix coats are often a blend of the coat of their Australian Shepherd and Siberian Husky parents. The primary colors are black, white, brown cream, and tan. These breeds are often an attractive blend and mix of any of these colors.

Typically, the species of such breeds live in areas with cold weather and have a thicker undercoat. They have a medium-length coat to keep them comfortable during rainy and snowy days. Also, the coat of the Husky Australian Shepherd mix is resistant to water.

These designer dogs feature straight and wavy fur that covers the entire body with medium to large-sized bodies. However, short and smooth hair can be found on the head and the ears.

Grooming

The Husky Australian Shepherd are heavy shedder and sheds hair all year along but excessively during springtime as they need to get rid of their winter coat. For a healthier and shinier coat, brush your pet’s hair at least twice a week during the time they are shedding.

Grooming Tips

• Before you begin brushing them, spray their coat with a tiny amount of dog hair conditioner to prevent hair tangling. However, do not forget to dilute the conditioner with water before using it.
• Use a slicker brush to stroke the dog’s hair in the direction of the hair growth.
• Do not hurriedly run the brush only on top of the dog’s coat. Instead, ensure that it goes all the way down to its skin.
• You may also purchase an undercoat rake, helpful in removing excess hair, especially when shedding in springtime.
• The Husky Australian Shepherd Mix needs a bath only if they are dirty or have gotten into a sticky mess. Use a shampoo specifically designed for dogs.

Note: If the product is too costly, you may opt for baby shampoo only.

• Do not forget to trim their nails regularly.
• Also, inspect their coat for signs of rashes, sores, or infections and immediately take them to the vet if they seem ill.

Persona

As loving and loyal this breed is for its owners and family, it is the exact opposite when it comes to strangers. These dogs require early socialization that ensures the puppy grows into a well-mannered and friendly adult.

However, keep in mind that the breed tends to get bored quickly. Give them loads of attention and keep them mentally attentive with exercises and playtime. Please do not leave them for long hours, or they may showcase destructive behavior.

Overall, the mixed pup is protective, loyal, playful, and fun to be around. Although this breed is known for being great guard dogs, they can also be excellent service, rescue, and therapy dogs.

Activity

Owing to their high energy levels, they require a vigorous amount of activity time. Keep them engaged with numerous toys. Give them tasks and play with them, and they will be the happiest dogs in the world.

Do not forget to take them for walks at least twice a day since they are outdoorsy dogs and need to release the energy.

Training

It is pretty easy to train this breed. These dogs are highly obedient and intelligent, making them quick learners.

Start by keeping the training sessions short to get their attention and let them know that you are in charge. Also, please make a note of their likes and dislikes to make things work in your favor.

Feeding

It is advisable to feed them at least 1.5-2.5 cups of high-quality dog food divided into two daily meals. The amount of food your pet requires depends on their age, metabolism, level of activity, stomach type, and build.

Children And Other Pets

Due to their herding heritage, you need to teach them not to chase and bother other children or pets. Apart from this, they make a friendly companion and are affectionate to almost everybody they meet.

They may not get along with smaller pets like cats or parrots.

Health Problems

Though the Husky Australian Shepherd mix is usually fit as a fiddle, it is prone to health problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia, deafness, progressive retinal atrophy, etc. Make sure to them to the vet at the slightest signs of behavioral change.

Things You Must Know About Huskies

• Immensely intelligent breed
• Obedient
• Striking appearance
• Quick learner
• Fiercely loyal and protective of the family
• Great guard dog
• Can keep up on long hikes or runs
• Suitable for competitive sports

Things You Must Be Prepared To Deal With 

• Stubborn
• Highly energetic
• Prone to boredom and destructive behavior if not well trained
• Great shedder

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Proper Name Of This Breed?

It’s a Husky Australian Shepherd mix. But sometimes these are also referred to as:

• Aussie Husky dog
• Aussie Husky mix
• Aussie Huskie
• Australian Husky
• Australian Shepherd Husky mix
• Australian Shepherd mix
• Australian Shepherd Siberian Husky mix
• Aussie Siberian
• Husky and Australian Shepherd mix

How Much Does A Husky Australian Shepherd Mix Puppy Cost?

On average, the breed will cost you around $500-$1000.

But the best and the only alternative is to adopt from a rescue center, be it a puppy or an adult. Also, the cost of adopting a rescue dog is around $150, which is much less than from a breeder.

Note: If you are considering adopting a rescue dog, it is crucial to find out about the circumstances of why it’s in a rescue center (especially if it is a working or herding dog.) Know about the abuse, neglect, behavior, or any other available details of the temperament or health issues of the parents.

Their food will cost you around $40-$50 per month for an adult and considering their possible health problems, you must add in vet’s fees. Additionally, account for their accessories, treats, and toys.

Is An Aussie Husky The Right Breed For Me?

Before considering if this is the right breed for you, you should ask yourself these questions:

• Do you have experience owning a dog or a pet with high energy levels?
• Can you provide dedicated time for exercise and playtime for your dog?
• Can you ensure your dog’s safety?
• Do you have other pets at home that will make the perfect home buddy for this mixed breed?
• Are you or anyone in your family allergic to dog hair?

If you honestly answer yes to all of these questions, then you will be grateful and in total awe for the rest of your lives with the Husky Australian Shepherd mix.

Wrapping Up

The Australian Shepherd is a high-spirited breed that is as pretty as a picture. They are no less than a massive bundle of joy in your home!