German Shepherd Husky Mix Lifespan: (Must Know Facts)

If you own a Gerberian Shepsky then knowing their average lifespan is important.

I receive many questions about the longevity of husky mixes, and with this mix in particular being one of the most common, I’ve decided to dive in deep and give a comprehensive answer.

I’ll explain the average lifespan of this mix, health implications, what this mix usually dies from, and most importantly, tips on improving their health and longevity.

Let’s get into it!

Average Lifespan of a German Shepherd Husky Mix

As a crossbreed between a German Shepherd and a Siberian Husky, the German Shepherd Husky mix’s average lifespan ranges from 10 to 14 years.

Like any breed, several factors can influence this range, including genetics, health care, diet, exercise, and mental stimulation.

Breed	Average Lifespan
German Shepherd	9 – 13 years
Siberian Husky	12 – 14 years
German Shepherd Husky Mix (Shepsky)	10 – 14 years

Common Causes of Death ➡️

Understanding the common health problems and causes of death for the Shepsky can provide a guide for preventative care and early intervention.

Both parent breeds are prone to specific health issues that may affect this husky mix:

1. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: This is a common condition in larger dogs and both parent breeds, leading to arthritis and, in severe cases, lameness.
2. Degenerative Myelopathy: Primarily found in German Shepherds, it’s a progressive disease of the spinal cord causing loss of coordination in the hind limbs.
3. Eye Diseases: Huskies are prone to eye conditions like cataracts, corneal dystrophy, and progressive retinal atrophy.
4. Bloat or Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV): A potentially deadly condition, more common in large breeds, where the stomach twists on itself.
5. Heart Issues: Both breeds can experience various heart problems, which can impact the Shepsky’s lifespan if not diagnosed and treated.

Still, it is worth knowing that in general, mixed breeds are known to have less health complications than purebreds.

Of course this won’t account for every individual mixed dog out there, but studies do show that mixes tend to live longer than their respective purebred parents.

Health Implications and Care ➡️

As an owner, it’s crucial to monitor your Shepsky’s health and well-being to help prolong their lifespan. Here are some health implications and how to care for them:

1. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent dysplasia. Avoid high-impact exercises in their early years, and consider supplements that promote joint health.
2. Eye Health: Regular check-ups with a vet can identify early signs of eye issues. Protect your Shepsky’s eyes from harsh sunlight or injury.
3. Degenerative Myelopathy: There’s no known cure, but physical therapy and supportive care can help maintain quality of life.
4. Bloat: Avoid feeding your Shepsky one large meal a day. Instead, opt for multiple smaller meals and avoid vigorous exercise after eating.
5. Heart Health: Regular exercise and a balanced diet can contribute to overall heart health. Your vet may recommend special diets or medications for existing heart conditions.

6 Tips to Improve a German Shepherd Husky’s Lifespan

With knowledge of their common health issues and how to care for them, here are more tips to improve your Shepsky’s lifespan:

Nutrition ⭐

Feed them high-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Some dog food is specifically designed to support joint health and can be beneficial for this mix in particular.

In my experience, both of these individual breeds thrive on a high protein, medium fat, and low carb formula. This mimics what their diet would have been like in the wild and reduces sensitive stomachs while prioritizing the nutrients that really benefit their health.

Exercise ⭐

Ensure your husky german shepherd mix gets regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and promote overall well-being. Both parent breeds are high-energy and crave at least 90 minutes of moderate to intensive activity every single day. I can’t stress enough the importance of exercise for this dog! Just ensure you exercise puppies differently according to their age.

Regular Vet Check-ups ⭐

Routine veterinary care is crucial for early detection of potential health issues. Vaccinations and parasite prevention are also part of a healthy regimen for puppies. Ideally this breed should have two vet check ups per year just to keep on top of their weight and general health. While some owners think two checks per year is too much, identifying health complications early can make all the difference.

Mental Stimulation ⭐

Shepskies are intelligent and active dogs that need mental stimulation. Training, interactive toys, and puzzle games can keep their mind sharp and content. This will have a big impact on their stress levels, and studies have shown that stress impacts dogs in the same negative ways as it does with us!

Dental Care ⭐

Gum disease and other periodontal disease is one of the most common killers of dogs today. The sad thing is, a lot of this can be prevented by simply keeping on top of your dog’s dental hygiene. Daily brushing will truly have a positive impact on your husky german shepherd’s lifespan. So get scrubbing! Full dental care guide here

Love and Affection ⭐

Emotional well-being plays a crucial role in a dog’s overall health. Provide your Shepsky with a loving, stress-free environment. Again, receiving ample love will reduce their stress levels and lead to a happier, healthier and longer life.

Breeding and Lifespan

Breeding practices play a crucial role in determining the lifespan and overall health of the German Shepherd Husky mix. For this reason, the breeder you choose can significantly influence your Shepsky’s quality and length of life. This point cannot be overstated.

Ethical Breeders Prioritize Health ✅

Responsible and ethical breeders prioritize the health of the parent breeds over any other factors, such as physical appearance or profit. This approach ensures the breeding process is carried out conscientiously, taking into consideration the long-term well-being of the offspring.

Ethical breeders perform extensive health checks on both parent breeds before mating occurs. They screen for genetic diseases common in both German Shepherds and Siberian Huskies, reducing the risk of these health issues being passed down to the Shepsky puppies.

Look for Health Clearances ✅

It’s vital that potential owners insist on seeing health clearances for both parent dogs. These clearances are documentation indicating that the parents have been tested and cleared for prevalent health conditions associated with their breed. For Shepskies, these clearances should include screenings for hip and elbow dysplasia, heart issues, and certain eye conditions.

Beware of Backyard Breeders and Puppy Mills ❌

Avoid backyard breeders and puppy mills. These operations are primarily concerned with making a profit, often at the expense of the dogs’ health and well-being. Puppies from these sources are more likely to suffer from health issues and have a shortened lifespan.

Last thoughts

While the typical lifespan of a German Shepherd Husky mix ranges between 10 to 14 years, individual Shepskies may live shorter or longer lives depending on a variety of factors.

These include genetics, overall health care, diet, and the quality of emotional well-being they experience throughout their lives.

Remember, while we can’t control every aspect of our dog’s health, our actions as owners can have a profound impact on their overall quality of life.

Regular veterinary care, a balanced diet, plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and lots of love can all contribute to a long, happy, and healthy life for your Shepsky.

Owning a Shepsky, like any dog, is a rewarding experience filled with love and companionship. With this guide, you now have the knowledge to provide the best possible care for your furry friend, hopefully adding to both the quantity and quality of their years with you.

Full Husky German Shepherd Mix Guide