Australian Shepherd Husky Mix: Is The Aussie Husky Your New Running Pal?

Australian Shepherds are so wildly popular, that breeders are now mixing them with various other dog breeds for a range of different hybrid Shepherds.

For instance, an Australian Shepherd Husky mix is a dog with one parent Australian Shepherd, and one parent Siberian Husky. 

The result is a very fluffy, lovable and fun, furry companion. These dogs are also often referred to as the Aussie Siberian, and can be found in shelters, rescues and from breeders.

This breed can have beautiful, multi-tonal fluffy coats, fun loving personalities, and very excitable natures. 

If you are unsure whether the Australian Shepherd Husky mix is for you, then this guide will answer all of your questions.

Our guide will take a look at the history of both breeds that make up this hybrid dog, and what the temperament and physical characteristics of the Aussie Husky mix are.

So, let’s see if the Australian Shepherd Husky Mix is the perfect new addition to your family! 

What is an Australian Shepherd Husky Mix?

An Australian Shepherd Husky Mix, or an Aussie Husky is a crossbreed, or a hybrid breed of two purebred dogs; the Australian Shepherd and the Siberian Husky.

As a mixed breed, this type of dog has not been around as long as its purebred ancestors, but is becoming increasingly popular among homes and families.

The Aussie Husky is a beautiful dog, known for its very unique and multi-colored coat. These dogs have even been known to have bright blue eyes, or mixed colored eyes with one bright blue and another brown, for a very interesting look. 

In addition to this, the Australian Shepherd Husky Mix is a very active dog, yet is incredibly loyal and loving towards its owners.

As a mix of two breeds, to find out more about this type of dog, we will take a look at the history of both breeds, the temperament, health issues and physical characteristics of both the Australian Shepherd and the Husky, to see what you can expect of an Aussie Husky mix. 

History of the Breeds

Historically speaking, dogs were bred for certain purposes. They were sometimes bred as companion animals, but most often used to help their owners in certain tasks, situations and roles. 

For instance, we have the terms ‘working’ dogs and ‘sporting dogs’ to classify some breeds of dog.

You will have pointers, setters, spaniels and retrievers considered sporting dogs as they were bred for hunting, flushing and retrieving game for their owners. 

On the other hand, you can also have working dogs. These dogs were bred to have specific talents and training that would assist humans in their everyday lives and roles.

For instance, working dogs can be police dogs, shepherds, sled dogs and rescue dogs.

Both the Australian Shepherd and the Siberian Husky were bred to be working dogs, and are happiest when they have a job, role or task to perform. 

Australian Shepherd History

Let’s start with the history of the Australian Shepherd. Despite its given name, the Aussie Shepherd did not actually originate in Australia.

This breed originated in the western areas of the United States, and was most likely used during the time of the Gold Rush in the 1840s.

It is believed that these dogs were bred from the different varieties of Collies in the United States, and at the time would have been used to herd and protect sheep.

This is why these dogs look so similar to Border Collies, and have many of the same characteristics and tendencies when it comes to fiercely protecting the flock. 

During its early inception, the Australian Shepherd would have been used to herd livestock in rural areas of the US, and is known by many different names.

For instance, it was known as the California Shepherd, the New Mexican Shepherd and even the Spanish Shepherd.

They were later known as Australian Shepherds due to their similarities and association with Basque Shepherds that hailed from Australia. 

Nowadays, the Aussie Shepherd is used for service dogs, police dogs, narcotics detection, obedience trials, and other therapy dogs due to its intense intelligence, ability to please humans and capacity for training. 

Husky History

The Siberian Husky is an easily recognizable dog breed. Known for its thick, white and gray fur with piercing eyes, the Husky is well known as a sled dog that originates from Siberia.

These dogs were initially bred as sled dogs due to their size, strength, agility and energy, making them perfect for pulling heavy sleds through the icy tundra. 

This wolf-like breed was first bred by the Chukchi people of Siberia for work, but also companionship.

This highly resilient, active and powerful breed is able to withstand extremely harsh weather conditions, whilst remaining loyal and protective towards its human companion. 

During the Nome Gold Rush, these dogs were introduced to Alaska, where they worked as sled dogs and in expeditions through tough terrain.

As time would pass, Huskies were brought all around the world and have since become house pets and family dogs, however, some are still used as sled dogs by competitive mushers in races. 

What is an Australian Shepherd Husky Mix like?

Whilst the two breeds that make up an Australian Shepherd Husky mix are very different in appearance, they do have some similarities in their size, temperament and personalities.

Being working dogs, you can see some overlapping traits that both exhibit.

So, what are Aussie Huskies really like? It is hard to define what an Australian Shepherd Husky mix will look like because it is a mixed breed.

There is no definitive ratio by which the physical characteristics are split up from the parents, in the same way that human children can look more like the mom and more like the dad…but you cannot predict which.

For the most part, the Australian Shepherd Husky Mix will be a medium sized dog, about 20-24 inches at the shoulder for males, and 18-20 inches for females.

In addition, their weight may vary from 40-55 lbs for male Aussie Huskies and 35-55 lbs for female ones, depending on the dog. 

Some Australian Shepherd Huskies will look more like a Husky, whereas others may have physical attributes that make them look more like Australian Shepherds, it really depends on the dog itself.

However, they may have similar facial features such as triangular, pointed ears, narrow muzzles, bright oval eyes in distinctive colors, or even bi-colored eyes like Huskies do.

But it is hard to give a physical description as all crossbreeds will look slightly different. 

Therefore, we can explore some of the physical characteristics, personality traits and temperament of the two breeds to get a sense of what an Australian Shepherd Husky may be like.

Australian Shepherd:

Temperament

The Australian Shepherd is typically a very intelligent creature, with lots of energy to burn, and a natural work ethic.

It is for this reason that these dogs are often chosen for therapy dogs, police dogs, rescue dogs and other roles that require a lot of training, determination and dedication.

Australian Shepherds are working dogs, and so they will thrive when they are given something to do. This means providing a lot of regular exercise, activities, training routines and roles to complete.

The Aussie Shepherd will love to please its owner, and will also need to keep its highly intelligent brain engaged with enriching toys, activities and games.

Without a good routine of exercise, activity and training, an Australian Shepherd can be prone to destructive behavior, as they can become bored and misbehave.

As such, these dogs are very energetic, hyperactive, fast moving and ready to go whenever and wherever you lead them! 

Personality

Personality-wise, Australian Shepherds can also be very loyal and loving towards their owners, especially if they spend a lot of time with them.

As a herding dog, Aussie Shepherds are bred to work several hours a day in conjunction with an owner, who would lead, train and command them to look after their livestock and protect their farms.

Therefore, these dogs naturally love to please and work for their owners. 

There is some concern about aggression when it comes to the Australian Shepherd, and this can sometimes be genetic.

If you are purchasing an Aussie Shepherd, make sure that you see the puppy’s parents to check if there are signs of aggression or behavioral issues.  

Characteristics 

Australian Shepherds are medium sized dogs that tend to look very similar to Collies, or Sheepdogs. They can often have a mixture of black and white, mottled fur, with a hint of brown around the face, under the belly and on the legs.

They may also have multi-colored eyes, and either floppy or pointed ears. 

Size

The Australian Shepherd is often confused with the Border Collie and is very similar in size and build, both of them very muscular, solic and longer than they are tall.

They typically weigh about 40-60 lbs, and grow to about 18-23 inches in height. 

Husky:

Temperament

Similar to the Australian Shepherd, a Husky is typically very intelligent, friendly, outgoing and active.

However, they are also very alert, fiercely loyal and protective of the ones they love.

Due to their high intelligence, Huskies are also very independent creatures, and will try to dominate their owners and become the Alpha. 

In these cases, they can also be very stubborn and hard to train. They will also need a strict training schedule, and lots of exercise so that they can burn off their energy, as these dogs were born to run and pull sleds! 

Personality

As wonderful companions as they are, Huskies are known to crave a lot of attention, and they will demand it from you if they need to!

They will try to overrule you, and do what they want to do, so they will need firm yet gentle training from a young age to keep them engaged and interested.

However, they are also very affectionate, and will be very loyal and loving towards their owners, demanding cuddles at any moment.

Characteristics 

Siberian Huskies are medium sized dogs, with thick, fluffy double coats. Their fur ranges from gray, white to black and can either be mixed in color or one color all over.

The Husky typically has pointed ears, a wolf-like appearance and bright blue or brown eyes.

Size

As a medium sized dog, the Husky can grow to about 40-50lbs in weight, and can be 20-23 inches tall at the shoulder. With long legs, these dogs have an athletic build, and thick coats that will protect them from the elements.

After considering the characteristics of both breeds, you can expect your Australian Shepherd Husky to be active, loyal, outgoing, affectionate and friendly.

They will be highly dedicated to their families, and can become well rounded, highly trainable and behaved family pets.

What exercise and training does an Australian Shepherd Husky Mix need?

This type of dog will need a lot of physical exercise and stimulation. It is best to give them at least 2 hours of exercise a day including long walks, playing fetch, hiking or running. 

Grooming & Shedding 

The Aussie Husky mix can have a thick double coat like the Husky, and will therefore have an undercoat that will need a lot of brushing and grooming.

This means that they will also shed frequently, and will lose a lot of hair. If you were thinking of getting one of these dogs for yourself, be aware that you will have to vacuum…a lot! 

To keep on top of this, make sure that you are brushing your dog’s coat with a slicker brush and a rake for the undercoat to get rid of excess fur.

You should also keep on top of brushing their teeth, and checking their ears for infections or dirt build ups. 

Health Issues and Lifespan

The Australian Shepherd Husky Mix is typically a very healthy breed, and has an expected lifespan of about 10-13 years under most circumstances.

However, as many other breeds do, Australian Shepherd Huskies can suffer from various health issues. These may be:

• Anxiety
• Allergies
• Elbow Dysplasia
• Hip Dysplasia
• Ear Problems
• Epilepsy
• Corneal Dystrophy 

Is the Australian Shepherd Husky Mix for you?

If you want an Australian Shepherd Husky mix, then there are a few things to keep in mind. These dogs are highly intelligent, active and energetic, and will need a lot of exercise and attention in order to be happy.

They will also need a secure backyard or fenced home so that they can run around outside safely. 

In addition, they can become very attached and devoted to their owners, so you will need to be able to give them a lot of your time and attention, by playing with them, training them, and keeping them entertained.

If that sounds perfect to you, then this breed is for you!