Husky Pitbull Mix: Your Complete Guide To The Pitsky

The Husky Pitbull mix is a unique and fascinating mixed breed that you may see more often these days. This mixed breed is a cross between a Siberian Husky and an American Pitbull Terrier (or other Pitbull-type dog), resulting in a dog that is both powerful and highly energetic.

From their striking icy blue eyes and mesmerizing coat patterns to their affectionate and devoted personalities, the Husky Pitbull mix will undoubtedly capture your heat. Howner, they will need a quality no-pull harness because these puppers will pull on regular harnesses like their Husky ancestors. 

On top of their cute looks, Husky Pitbull mixes are known for their friendly and affectionate personalities. With the help of expert resources like Claudia Kaiser’s Husky Training book, we’ve compiled the ultimate guide to this mix. 

Both parent breeds are extremely loved by the dog community. This popularity is why we can see other mixes involving either breed, such as Huskypoos, Pomskies, and Horgis.

Overall, a Pitsky is a medium to large-sized dog with a friendly and loyal personality. They make excellent pets for families, but their barking tendencies and random streaks of stubbornness are points to note. 

Check out this handsome Pitsky pup flexing himself:

Origins of the Husky Pitbull Mix

The Husky Pitbull mix is a relatively new breed that is gaining popularity among dog lovers. This breed likely came about in the 1990s after Labradoodles sparked the designer dogs craze. We can get a better look into the mix by understanding the parents’ histories. 

Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky is a medium-sized dog breed that originated in Siberia, Russia. The Chukchi people originally bred these dogs to pull sleds and help with hunting. The Siberian Husky is known for its thick, double coat, which helps it stay warm in cold weather. 

You may know about Togo’s and Balto’s teams, a group of hero Huskies that saved an entire village from an epidemic. This single life-saving event in 1925 popularized Huskies all over the world. 

These dogs are also known for their striking blue eyes, although some have brown eyes or one of each color.

Pitbull

The Pitbull is an umbrella term for the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and the American Bully. For this article, we’ll look at the American Pitbull Terrier as it’s the most popular. 

American Pitbulls can be traced back to the 1800s in England, where they were bred from Old English Bulldogs for bull baiting. When bull baiting was made illegal in 1835, Terriers were added to the breed for agility as people started focusing more on dog fights and ratting. 

Since then, different  American Pitbull Terriers like black and red-nosed Pits have emerged and even different bloodlines like Gator Pitbulls. Even with the ban on dog fights in 1976, Pitbulls maintain a sad and bloody stereotype, despite being loving sweethearts with proper Training. 

Physical Characteristics of the Husky Pitbull Mix

What Does a Pitsky Look Like?

One of the most striking features of the Husky Pitbull mix is their physical appearance. They have strong and sturdy frames and are medium to large-sized dogs.

The Pitsky has strong and sturdy legs that are well-muscled, giving them the ability to run and jump with ease. The feet are round and compact, with thick pads that provide excellent traction.

They will most likely have the large, square-shaped head of a Pitbull. One of the most striking features of the Pitsky is its eyes. They often inherit the Husky’s captivating almond-shaped eyes, which may come in various colors, including blue, brown, amber, or even heterochromia, where each eye is a different color.

Their muzzles are medium-length, and their ears are erect. They often have a deep chest, a strong neck, and a straight back. The tail of a Pitsky is usually of medium length and may be carried high, much like the Husky’s plume-like tail.

Coat

Their coats can vary in color and texture, ranging from the thick and fluffy fur of a Husky to the short and smooth coat of a Pitbull. However, most Pitskies seem to inherit the shorter, smooth coat of the Pitbull.

Their coat colors can vary widely, depending on the genetics of their parents. Some common coat colors for Pitskies include:

• Black and white;
• Brown;
• Fawn;
• Gray;
• Red;
• Gray and white;
• Brown and white;
• Tan and white; and
• Red and white.

How Big Does a Pitsky Get?

When it comes to size, a Pitsky can weigh anywhere from 30 to 80 pounds (14 to 36 kg) and stand anywhere from 17 to 24 inches (43 to 60 cm) tall at the shoulder. The weight and height of a Pitsky can vary depending on the size of their parents, with males typically being larger than females.

Pitsky Temperament And Personality

How Do Pitskies Behave?

Pitskies have an exuberant and joyful nature. These happy dogs are loyal, affectionate, social, energetic, intelligent, and lively dogs. They love to play and bond deeply with their hoomans. However, their high energy levels can make them prone to being destructive when bored. 

They are extremely active, especially when they are under two years old, and this can be challenging for the average family. We only recommend you get a Pitsky if you lead an extremely active lifestyle and you are committed to lifelong training. A walk around the block is just not enough for these dogs and will leave them frustrated.

One of the most notable traits of Pitskies is their tendency to be extremely vocal. They are known for their howling and barking, which can be a problem for some owners. Additionally, they can be notorious escape artists and can figure out how to escape yards and open doors. Therefore, make sure your yard is secure before you get a Pitsky.

These dogs may be misunderstood due to their resemblance to Pitbulls and a reputation as aggressive dogs. However, they can be loving and loyal family pets when properly trained and socialized. In fact, it’s the Pitbull side of these mixes that make them slightly more trainable and obedient than Huskies. 

Are Pitskies Good with Children?

Pitskies are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, which can make them great companions for children. However, always supervise interactions between children and dogs to avoid accidents. These are active and exuberant dogs that can knock a small child down by accident.

Are Pitskies Good with Other Animals?

Some Pitskies may not be the best around other animals because of the fighting heritage from the Pit’s side. Additionally, even the Husky has a high prey drive and can chase small animals. However, proper socialization will greatly improve their odds of living peacefully with other animals. 

The Health of the Husky Pitbull Mix

The Husky Pitbull mix is generally a healthy breed with an average lifespan of 12-15 years. However, like any other breed, they are prone to certain health issues that owners should be aware of. There are numerous studies exploring different health conditions in the parent breeds.

• Hip dysplasia:  a genetic condition that affects the hip joint. 
• Eye problems: Both Huskies and Pitbulls are prone to certain eye conditions such as cataracts, cherry eye (pink bumps), and glaucoma
• Skin Issues: Huskies are also known to be prone to certain skin conditions, such as allergies and dermatitis. This can be exacerbated in a mixed breed.
• Thyroid issues like hypothyroidism and diabetes
• Degenerative myelopathy (DM): This is a disease affecting the spinal cord. According to research, hereditary factors may affect a Husky’s predisposition to DM. Affected dogs can have legs that look like they’re shaking.
• Gastric Dilation and Volvulus (GDV): Both parent breeds have deep chests, increasing the risk of the stomach twisting due to air.
• Different types of cancer. 
• Ichthyosis:  This skin issue is particularly common in Pits.
• Heart issues such as dilated cardiomyopathy (enlarged heart).
• Hypertension: High blood pressure can be an issue in some Pitbulls, and it’s essential to monitor for this condition in Pitskies.
• Mild to moderate issues like heat sensitivity, stomach issues, allergies, obesity, dental,  and ear infections. 

How To Train A Pitsky

Training Tips

Training a Pitsky can be challenging due to their high energy levels and stubbornness. However, it is possible to train them effectively with patience and consistency. Check out our article on how to train your stubborn dogs for pups that make training extra difficult. 

One of the most important things to remember when training a Pitsky is to use positive reinforcement. Rewarding good behavior with treats, praise, or playtime can be a powerful motivator for these dogs.

Another essential training tip is to keep training sessions short and frequent. Pitskies have short attention spans, so it is best to keep training sessions to 10-15 minutes at a time. Consistency is key, so try to train your Pitsky every day.

Exercise Requirements

Pitskies are high-energy dogs that require plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. They need at least an hour or two of exercise every day, and this should include both physical and mental stimulation. We suggest high-intensity exercise such as running, and even weight pulling. 

These dogs thrive on intensive activity and may become destructive without it. One sport we highly recommend for an energetic Pitsky is bikejoring. 

Physical exercise can include activities like running, hiking, or playing fetch. Mental exercise can include training sessions, puzzle toys, or interactive games.

It is also important to note that Pitskies are not well-suited for apartment living. They need plenty of space to run and play, so a house with a fenced yard is ideal.

Grooming and Maintenance

The Husky Pitbull mix is a breed that requires regular grooming and maintenance to keep them healthy and happy. Here are some tips for keeping your dog looking and feeling their best:

• Brushing: This breed can be heavy shedders, so regular brushing is essential to keep their coats looking shiny and healthy. A slicker brush or a grooming glove can help remove loose fur and prevent matting.
  
• Bathing: Bathing your dog every 6-8 weeks is recommended to keep their coat clean and free of dirt and debris. Use a dog-specific shampoo and conditioner to avoid drying out their skin.
  
• Nail trimming: Keeping your dog’s nails trimmed is important to prevent them from getting too long and causing discomfort or even injury. Use a dog nail clipper and be careful not to cut the quick, which is the pink part of the nail that contains blood vessels.
  
• Ear cleaning: Regularly cleaning your dog’s ears can help prevent infections and keep them healthy. Use a dog-specific ear cleaner and a cotton ball to gently wipe out any dirt or debris.
  
• Teeth brushing: Brushing your dog’s teeth 2 to 3 times a week helps prevent dental problems and keep their breath fresh. Use a dog toothbrush and toothpaste, and be gentle when brushing and alternate with a dog mouth rinse.

Ideal Home For a Husky Pitbull Mix

1. A home with a yard;
2. People who aren’t allergic to dogs;
3. Extremely active individuals who enjoy taking their dog for daily runs, frequent hikes, and sports like biking with your dog;
4. People willing to commit to intense training; and
5. People living in areas that allow dogs resembling Pitbulls.

Adopting a Husky Pitbull Mix

Adoption Tips

Adopting a Husky Pitbull mix can be a great decision for those looking for a loyal and energetic companion. However, before deciding to adopt, it is important to consider a few things.

Firstly, it is important to ensure the Husky Pitbull mix is the right breed for you. This breed is known for being high-energy and requires a lot of exercise and attention. If you are not able to provide this, it may not be the right breed for you.

Secondly, it is vital to find a reputable breeder or rescue organization. Look for a breeder or rescue organization that is transparent about the breed’s history, temperament, and health issues. It is also essential to ask for references and visit the breeder or rescue organization to ensure that the dogs are treated well.

Lastly, it is essential to prepare your home for the arrival of your new pet. This includes purchasing the necessary supplies, such as food, toys, and a crate, and making sure that your home is safe and secure for your new pet.

Some organizations you can search include:

• The Love Pit;
• Adopt a pet;
• Pet rehoming network; and
• Texas husky rescue.

Cost Considerations

Adopting a Husky Pitbull mix can come with some expenses. The cost of adoption can vary depending on the breeder or rescue organization, but it typically ranges from $200 to $500.

In addition to the adoption fee, there are other costs to consider, such as food, toys, and veterinary care. Husky Pitbull mixes are prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and eye problems, so it is important to budget for regular vet check-ups and potential medical expenses.

It is also important to consider the cost of training. Husky Pitbull mixes can be stubborn and require consistent training and socialization. Hiring a professional trainer or attending obedience classes can be beneficial in helping your new pet adjust to their new home and become a well-behaved member of the family.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Final Thoughts

The Husky Pitbull mix is a unique and beautiful breed from Huskies and Pitbulls that is gaining popularity among dog lovers. This breed is a great choice for those looking for a loyal, affectionate, energetic, playful companion.

Meet Your Experts

Tamsin De La Harpe

Author

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.