The Pitbull Husky mix is a unique hybrid with lots of energy. This dog is a good-looking pooch with a lovely temperament and a sociable nature.
If you are looking for an active dog to add to your family, the Pitsky is the one to check out.
In this guide, we’ll talk about everything you need to know about the Pitbull and Husky mix.
You’ll learn about their origin, common health issues, diet, and exercise needs. We’ll also touch on the cost of owning a Pitsky and places to find Pitsky puppies for sale.
At the end of this guide, you’ll find out whether or not the Pitsky is a suitable addition to your family. If all of these sound interesting, then read along!
What Is a Pitbull Husky Mix?
The Pitbull Husky mix is the hybrid of the American Pit Bull Terrier and the Siberian Husky or the Alaskan Husky. This crossbred pooch is well-known for its athleticism, loyalty, and playful nature. It is also commonly known as Pitsky in the canine community.
Pitskies are handsome-looking dogs with tight-fitting coats that come in assortments of colors. These dogs have been around for decades but are only gaining popularity in recent years.
One of the standout qualities of the Pitsky is their endurance for work and play. These pooches can go for hours and hours of exercise!
In terms of recognition, Pitskies are recognized by the Dog Registry of America but not the American Kennel Club (AKC). However, this is understandable as these pups are hybrids after all.
Pitbull Husky Mix History and Origin: Where Does the Husky Pitbull Mix Come From?
The Pitbull and Husky mix is a relatively new addition to the list of designer dog breeds. While these hybrids have been around for years, they only piqued the interest of pet lovers recently.
Unfortunately, the development of most designer dogs is not well-documented. The same can also be said for Pitskies; there’s not much to tell about these dogs’ exact origin. However, many claims point to the United States as the birthplace of this hybrid.
As for its parent breeds, the Pitbull and the Husky, both of these breeds have been around for centuries.
The roots of the Pitbull breed can be traced back to the United Kingdom, where they were used for bull and bear baiting in the 1800s.
Meanwhile, the Huskies were originally bred as working sled dogs from the Siberian region.
The Pitbull and the Husky are both the pack leader in their respective dog groups, which is why you can expect nothing less from the Pitsky.
Usually, Pitskies are born from a Husky mother and an American Pit Bull Terrier father. This configuration is the way it is to facilitate easier delivery for the Husky parent. It is rare for a Pitsky to have a dam Pitbull parent.
Pitbull Husky Mix Appearance: What Does a Pitsky Look Like?
The Husky and Pitbull mix is a sharp-looking dog with a sturdy build. This dog has a strong presence, a muscular body, and a proportional face.
The Pitsky mix has a short coat that comes in black, brown, gray, brindle, and a combination of these.
In terms of facial features, the Pitsky sports triangular ears, a slightly boxy head, a long muzzle, and a dark-colored nose. They have almond-shaped eyes with many possible colors, such as brown, blue, hazel, and green.
Size-wise, the Pitsky comes in a wide range. Depending on the size of their parents, these dogs may be anywhere from medium to large.
Pitskies are not the most recognizable hybrids out there. An untrained eye might find it difficult to differentiate this pooch from other dogs. But if you know where to look, you can quickly identify a Pitsky!
READ NEXT: Husky Eye Colors: All Eye Colors Explained (With Pictures)
Pitbull Husky Pitbull Mix Size and Weight: How Big Does a Pitsky Get When Fully Grown?
The Pitbull and Husky mix is a medium to large dog comparable in size to its parents. On average, a full-grown Pitsky measures 30 to 80 pounds in weight and 16 to 25 inches in height.
Size differences are visible in male and female Pitskies, but they are very minimal. Usually, male Pitskies will outgrow their female counterparts from the same litter by a few pounds and inches.
Pitbull Husky mixes reach full-grown size around 15 months old. Some Pitskies may continue to grow up until their 18th month; however, this is quite rare.
The size of a Pitsky can be challenging to predict, especially during its puppy years. In fact, this is one of the downsides of owning this hybrid. Your dog’s weight depends heavily on the size of its parents.
One way to tell how big your dog will get is by examining the size of its parents. If both the Pitbull and Alaskan or Siberian Husky parents are relatively big, then you can expect your pup to be about the same.
Pitbull Husky Mix Temperament: Are Pitbull Husky Mixes Good Family Dogs?
Pitbulls and Huskies are intelligent breeds and great family dogs. These two breeds are known for their loyalty, high energy levels, and athleticism. Unsurprisingly, all these qualities are also present in the Pitbull Husky mix!
The Pitsky is a perfect companion for an outgoing family. If you are someone who loves working out, going on jogs, hiking, or skiing, the Pitsky is a fantastic choice for you.
Similarly, if you have other animals, other pets, or kids, the Pitsky is quite the perfect companion. As long as you engage your pooch in early socialization, you shouldn’t have a problem with it.
However, this hybrid may not be for first-time dog owners. Pitskies tend to be rambunctious and overly playful. Sometimes, it may take an experienced pet owner to discipline them.
That said, the Pitsky won’t usually show signs of any destructive behavior. Despite their playfulness, they will still respect your authority. Just make sure you give them enough exercise!
Pitskies are also fantastic guard dogs. They are alert and agile, so they won’t hesitate to put their life on the line if it means protecting their families.
Another thing to note about this hybrid is that they are prone to separation anxiety. If you are looking for someone to guard your home while you’re away, the Pitsky is not the one for you.
All things considered, the Pitsky is a terrific choice for a pet. You might need professional help to train them, but it’s all worth it.
Watch this video to see what a properly trained Pitbull Husky mix looks like:
READ NEXT: Male vs. Female Pitbull: Which Is Better?
Pitbull Husky Mix Lifespan and Health Issues: Are Pitbull Siberian Husky Mixes Healthy Dogs?
The Pitsky is a healthy mixed breed dog that lives a relatively long life. The life expectancy of a Pitsky is between 12 and 15 years, which is on par with the American Pit Bull Terrier, Alaskan Husky, and Siberian Husky.
However, despite their long lifespan, Pitskies also have a handful of health concerns. Some of their health issues are inherited from their parent breeds, while others are brought about by environmental factors.
Here are some of the common health problems of the Pitbull Husky mix:
- Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism is a condition that causes the slowing down of bodily functions. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include sudden weight gain, lethargy, and skin changes. Unfortunately, both the American Pit Bull Terrier and Siberian Husky are at risk of hypothyroidism.
- Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Dysplasia is a problem caused by a misalignment in the ball-and-socket joint. Elbow dysplasia occurs near the forelimbs, while hip dysplasia affects the pelvis area. Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia are more common in older dogs.
- Bone Cancer: Osteosarcoma is a type of bone cancer that is common in Pit Bulls and Huskies. This condition affects the growth of bones and nearby body parts. If this condition worsens, it may require amputation.
- Bloat: Gastric dilation-volvulus, also known as bloat, is a common life-threatening condition in most dogs. This problem results from the sudden build-up of stomach pressure caused by overeating or eating too fast. This condition can kill a Pitsky in a matter of hours.
If you plan on owning a Pitsky, it is imperative to familiarize yourself with the early signs of these health issues. Keep in mind that early detection is vital for your pup’s well-being. Also, regular check-ups are keys to keeping your pet healthy!
RELATED: How Long Do Pitbulls Live? Average Lifespan & Causes of Death
Advantages and Disadvantages of Breeding Pitbulls and Siberian Huskies Together
Dogs from different breeds are crossed for a handful of reasons. One of these reasons is to achieve a unique look in terms of coat pattern or coat color. Another possible reason is to produce mixed breed dogs with a specific set of qualities.
Sometimes hybrids are often more suitable for particular jobs than purebred dogs. Similarly, there are also health reasons.
Many experts believe that hybrids have a reduced likelihood of developing genetic health issues. As a result, hybrids are often generally healthy.
However, not everything about crossbreeding is good. Let’s examine some of the advantages and disadvantages.
Here are some advantages of breeding Pitbulls and Huskies together:
- Unique appearance: The Pitsky is undeniably a unique-looking pooch. It adopts some features from the Pitbull and the Husky, and the result is quite a rare look. To some, the unique appearance of this hybrid is enough reason to breed the Pitbull and the Husky together.
- High work drive: While the Pitbull and Husky are both lively and active dogs, the Pitsky is a tad more energetic. This hybrid is more suitable for families that enjoy going on adventures and working out. Needless to say, this dog is a working dog!
- Chance for better health: More often than not, crossbreeding reduces the risk of inheritable diseases. For example, the Pitbull and Husky both have health problems that are inherent to their breed. Meanwhile, crossing these dogs together results in decreased likelihood of developing these issues.
Here are some disadvantages of breeding Pitbull Husky mixes:
- Unpredictable behavior: Unlike purebreds, hybrids tend to have unpredictable temperaments. This is especially true for first-generation hybrids. That said, predicting the disposition of a hybrid, such as the Pitsky, can be a bit of a mixed bag.
- Hard to predict size: The size of a hybrid dog usually falls on a broader range than purebreds. In the case of the Pitsky, this range is 30 to 80 pounds in weight and 16 to 25 inches in height. If you’re planning to adopt a dog of a certain size, hybrids may not be the best option.
- Difficult delivery: Some hybrid puppies are larger than usual, especially if the sire is significantly larger than the dam. As a result, the delivery may require a cesarean section for the parent dog. While this is uncommon in Pitbull and Husky hybrids, it is still worth mentioning.
All in all, breeding Pitbulls and Huskies together is all about compromises. If done correctly, crossing these two dogs is safe and advantageous. However, if best practices are not in place, crossing these pups is not a good idea.
How to Take Care of Your Pitbull Husky Mix
Pitbull Husky hybrids do not need much to live a happy and healthy life. Just like their parent breeds, these dogs are pretty easy to look after. However, one thing these dogs need is a lot of physical activities.
Lots of physical activities also mean a slightly different diet for these pups. There are also a couple of things to note when it comes to their grooming needs. That said, let’s take a closer look at how to take care of your Pitbull Husky mix!
Food and Diet
The typical diet of a Pitsky mix is not far off from the Siberian Husky or the American Pitbull Terrier.
These dogs are highly energetic, which means they need more food than most dogs. A feeding frequency of two to three meals a day is ideal for a Pitsky.
When choosing the right kind of kibble, consider your dog’s age and activity level. If your Pitsky is still a puppy, you may need to buy a special kind of puppy food for it.
You can also incorporate homemade meals into your dog’s diet. However, it is best to stick to steamed white meat and vegetables.
If you’re quite unsure about what to feed your Pitsky, you can visit a vet and ask for a proper feeding and care routine.
Cleaning and Grooming
The coat of the Pitsky is short and easy to brush. Its texture, length, and appearance are a mix of the Husky’s and the Pitbull’s coat. It is recommended to brush your Pitsky’s hair at least four times a week to keep it healthy.
In terms of bathing, you should bathe your Pitbull Husky mix only when necessary. If you wish to bathe your pup regularly, once every month will do.
When it comes to oral health, the best practice is to brush your dog’s teeth once every two days.
Training and Exercise
Training a Pitbull Husky mix is not the easiest thing to do. After all, these dogs love to goof around and run freely! However, if you start early with obedience training, your pooch will be easier to manage in the long run.
The proper training scheme for the Pitsky is called positive reinforcement training. This scheme utilizes rewards such as dog clickers and treats to promote mental stimulation. You can read more about it on the Humane Society’s website.
In terms of exercise requirements, Pitsky is quite demanding. This dog needs at least an hour or two of play per day!
Some fantastic activities to tire out your pooch include jogging, playing in dog parks, swimming, hiking, and going through obstacles.
Pitbull Husky Mix Puppy Prices & Expenses: How Much Does a Pitsky Cost?
On average, a Pitbull Husky mix will run you anywhere between $500 and $2,000. If you are planning to get one from a champion bloodline, expect to pay somewhere near the upper end of this range.
For a designer breed, the Pitsky is relatively affordable. In fact, you can find plenty of Pitbull Husky mixes for just below $1,000.
If you’re working within a tighter budget, you can also consider adopting a Pitsky instead of shopping for one.
Aside from the price of the Pitsky, you’ll also need to consider a couple of expenses in your budget. These are things like a dog crate, collar and leash, vaccination fees, and more.
Here’s a list of all the other expenses for a Pitsky puppy:
Expenses | Price Range |
Dog Carrier | $70 – $150 |
Dog Bed | $50 – $60 |
Dog Collar and Leash | $20 – $30 |
Chew Toys | $15 – $30 |
Dog Shampoo | $10 – $20 |
Toothbrush and Toothpaste | $10 – $15 |
Grooming Brush | $10 – $20 |
Nail Clippers | $10 – $15 |
Microchipping | $15 – $30 |
Neutering/Spaying | $100 – $120 |
Complete Vaccine Shots | $150 – $250 |
Total Initial Cost | $460 – $740 |
As you can see, you need around $460 to $740 for these essentials. On top of all these costs, you also need to consider the recurring expenses.
Things like dog food, vitamins, treats, vet fees, and grooming fees should be on your budget.
The recurring cost of owning a Pitbull Husky mix is around $100 to $250 per month. This depends on the things you spend on for your pooch.
If you avail dog walking services or pet daycare services, your expenses may go beyond this range.
RELATED: How Much Does a Siberian Husky Cost? (2023 Price Guide)
Places to Find Pitbull Husky Mix Puppies for Sale and Adoption
The Pitbull Husky mix is a great dog, and it’s understandable if you want to get one right away. However, there’s not a lot of breeders dedicated to raising and selling this hybrid, unfortunately.
That said, you may find it challenging to find a Pitbull Husky mix. But don’t lose hope just yet! We have rounded up some of the best places to begin your search.
Regardless if you are looking for reputable breeders or reputable rescues, you’ll find the best sources down below!
Here are some breeders where you might find Pitbull Husky mix puppies for sale:
- Bossy Pitbull Kennels – Based in Murieta, California, Bossy Pitbull Kennels is a reputable Pitbull breeder. On occasions, they also have crossbreed dogs such as the Pitweiler and the Pitsky. This breeder is a fantastic choice, especially if you want your dog delivered to you.
- Bama Huskies – With over 23 years of breeding Huskies, Bama Huskies is one of the most trusted Husky breeders in Alabama. This breeder raises and sells champion-line Siberian Huskies with the best health and genetics. You can try to reach out to them, as they might also have a Husky Pitbull mix.
- Greenfield Puppies – Greenfield Puppies is a website that hosts listings from reputable breeders all over the country. On this website, you’ll find plenty of purebreds and hybrids from well-trusted and well-reviewed sources. Make sure to check out the website from time to time.
If you want more options, you can also check out our articles on the best Pitbull breeders and Siberian Husky breeders.
RELATED: 10 Best Siberian Husky Breeders (2023): Our Top 10 Picks!
Below are some sources where you can find Pitbull Husky mix puppies for adoption:
- Hairy Houdini Siberian Husky Rescue (HHSHR) – HHSHR is a non-profit organization in Michigan and Ohio. This rescue is dedicated to rehoming the Husky dog breed and Husky mixed breeds. All dogs from this rescue are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated.
- ARA Canine Rescue, Inc. – If you reside near California, ARA Canine Rescue, Inc. is an animal shelter to check out. This rescue owns over 10 acres of land, where their adopted Husky and Husky mixes get to roam around. Make sure to give them a call once in a while to inquire if a Pitsky is available.
- Adopt-a-Pet – Adopt-a-Pet is a website with a vast collection of pets looking for a forever home. From cats and dogs to birds and chinchillas, Adopt-a-Pet has the pet you are looking for! In partnership with thousands of rescues and shelters, this platform is one of the best sources for a Pitsky rescue.
- Petfinder – Petfinder is another adoption website where you can find Pitbull Husky mixes. Similar to Adopt-a-Pet, petfinder aims to make pet adoption as easy as possible. When finding a Pitsky, we recommend adding both Pitbull and Husky to the search filters.
If these sources for adoption don’t work out for you, you can also look at our round-up on the best Pitbull rescues and Husky rescues.
Moreover, you can also join social media groups for Pitsky owners. Surely, there are tons of pet lovers willing to help you out!
RELATED: 10 Best Pitbull Rescues for Adoption (2023): Our Top 10 Picks!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Husky Pitbull Mixes Aggressive?
The Husky Pitbull mix is not aggressive by nature. However, it may show signs of aggression if it is abused or mistreated at a young age.
Some Pitskies might also show signs of same-sex aggression, but this is normal and controllable.
Are Pitskies Hard to Train?
Pitskies can be challenging to train at first. However, these dogs are intelligent people-pleasers, which means they are still very trainable.
Younger Pitskies may be harder to train than adult dogs as they can often get a bit rambunctious and playful. If you want a well-behaved adult Pitsky, early training should be your top priority.
Do Pitskies Shed a Lot?
The Pitsky is not a low-shedding breed. These dogs tend to shed all year round and can be troublesome to people with severe allergies.
It is recommended to brush your dog’s coat at least four times a week to keep shedding manageable.
Are Pitskies Hypoallergenic?
Pitbulls and Huskies shed the whole year, so you can expect the same for the Pitsky mix.
This hybrid is not suitable for people who are severely allergic to dog fur. The shedding of a Pitskie is manageable; however, it is not considered hypoallergenic.
Final Thoughts: Is the Pitbull Husky Mix the Right Dog for You?
All in all, the Pitbull Husky mix is an excellent hybrid. It is a good family dog that loves exercise as much as it loves snuggles.
This pooch can be your workout buddy and cuddle buddy at the same time. It sounds like the perfect dog, doesn’t it?
However, if you’re allergic to dog fur, this pup may not be the one for you. Pitskies shed a lot, which can be troublesome to some people.
But if you can deal with shedding and its playfulness, then the Pitskie should be one of your top choices for a pet!