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The confusing origins of the MacKenzie River Husky have produced conflicting opinions about whether it’s a type or a breed. Without that, they may become destructive, causing significant damage to furniture, shoes, and pretty much anything else they can get their teeth into.Īlthough not ideal for a first-time owner, a Shepsky can fit easily into family life, especially a large one with the manpower to deal with their high-energy shenanigans. While loyal and intelligent, Shepskys are athletic animals that need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. These dogs “ seem to take pride in leaving a layer of fur on everything they touch ,” so aren’t ideal for those with allergies or an aversion to housework.
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Whatever personality traits your Shepsky has, one thing is undeniable – there will be a lot of shedding and a lot of hair in your home. Some may display the intelligence and loyalty of the German Shepherd while others may resemble their Husky parent more, with its affectionate yet independent behavior.
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Standing around 20” to 24” tall at the shoulder, the Shepsky is roughly the same size as the Siberian Husky but may appear bigger if they’ve inherited the more sturdy build of the German Shepherd.Īlso known as the Gerberian Shepsky, these dogs vary more than most crossbreeds, especially when it comes to temperament. You need plenty of space and experience to raise and care for a Malamute properly.Ī cross between the Siberian Husky and the German Shepherd, the Shepsky is a shepherd cross breed that, while not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), is endorsed by the American Canine Hybrid Club. This type of Husky is not a good choice for first-time dog owners. This trait is passed on when this dog is crossed with other breeds as well, such as in creating the King Shepherd. They do retrain a strong independent character from their wolf heritage. Nowadays, they are rarely used in their original functions anymore. In 1935 the American Kennel Club accepted the Malamute as a registered breed. It is said that the Mahlemuts would tie females in season up to trees in the forest so that wild wolves would mate with them, increasing the wolf percentage in their blood. They were (and are) very “wolf-like” dogs. Malamutes were used for any kind of task that came up: hunting game, towing supplies, guarding properties, and providing warmth to their owners. Their name “Malamute” is derived from the tribe that originally created this breed: the Mahlemut. They descended directly from wolves and were creates as long as 2000-3000 years ago. Males can reach up to 95 pounds in size and stand as tall as 26 inches.Īlaskan Malamutes are one of the oldest sled dog breeds. While looking very similar, these dogs are a lot larger. The Alaskan Malamute is the big cousin of the Siberian Husky.
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