Sheltie Husky Mix [Blend of Brains and Brawn]

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

Coming across a Sheltie Husky mix is like finding that hidden gem in your Grandma’s attic, isn’t it? A curious, charming concoction of the Shetland Sheepdog’s intelligence with the Siberian Husky’s bold spirit.

But, let’s not kid ourselves; owning a cross-breed pup isn’t always a walk in the park. It’s like getting a surprise bag; you don’t know which traits will show up!

Behavioral quirks, health concerns, or grooming needs—any of these can keep you up at night. That’s why we’re here today.

Think of this post as your favorite cup of tea on a chilly night: comforting, enlightening, and hopefully, offering solutions to your “mixed” dilemmas.

So, let’s dive into the fascinating world of the Sheltie Husky Mix, shall we?

What is a Sheltie Husky Mix?

A Sheltie Husky Mix is a cross-breeding between a Shetland Sheepdog and a Siberian Husky.

Some breeders refer to them as Shelusky or Sheltie Siberian.

These charming furballs inherit the best traits from both breeds, making them exceptional companions. 

With their intelligent and affectionate nature, combined with their striking appearance and energetic personality, Sheltie Husky Mixes make fantastic pets.

Doggy says, you might be interested in reading this too: Short haired Shelties

What is the difference between a Shetland Sheepdog and a Siberian Husky?

Shetland Sheepdogs are medium-sized dogs known for their loyalty, agility, and intelligence.

These pups were initially bred to become herding dogs. 

They have a thick double coat and a distinctive mane around their neck.

These handsome dogs come in sable, black, and even blue merle.

Shelties are naturally gentle and affectionate, making them excellent family pets.

They excel at obedience training because of their eagerness to please their owners.

On the other hand, Siberian Huskies are larger working dogs originally bred for sled pulling in the Arctic. 

Because they’re meant to withstand cold weather, Huskies have a thick double coat.

What makes this breed stand out is their striking blue or multi-colored eyes.

Siberian Huskies are known for their strong endurance, athleticism, and friendly demeanor.

They are independent thinkers and have a playful and mischievous nature.

One thing to note here is that they may display a stronger prey drive, which means you’ll need a secure collar when outside. When it comes to training, you may find this breed less inclined to follow commands strictly.

Quick note: If you want to be sure of your dog’s background and history, you can make use of a DNA kit to get the answers.

History of the Sheltie Husky Mix Crossbreed

This crossbreed’s origin is largely unknown.

However, it is widely believed that it emerged as part of the trend of crossbreeding dogs to create ones with unique and desirable traits.

If you’re curious to learn more about the Sheltie Husky Mix crossbreed, exploring the histories of their parent breeds can provide valuable insights. 

Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie) history

The Sheltie hails from the Shetland Islands of Scotland.

They are descendants of herding dogs and were bred to work with Shetland sheep and ponies. 

This particular breed grew more popular during the early 20th century and has since become cherished pets. 

Siberian Husky history

The Siberian Husky came from northeastern Siberia and they were originally developed by the Chukchi people to serve as sled dogs. 

Bred for endurance and to withstand harsh Arctic conditions, these dogs were an integral part of the Chukchi’s nomadic lifestyle. 

Sheltie Husky Mix Personality and Temperament

This handsome breed is known for being alert, smart, and eager to please and are said to be easily trainable and are quick learners.

However, some might exhibit a more independent streak thanks to their Husky blood.

That’s why consistent and patient training is a must, and this should start as young as possible.

Sheluskies are quite energetic, making them the perfect pet for active families as they love to be outside and require regular exercise.

As mentioned, they can inherit the Sheltie’s herding instinct so don’t be surprised if they try to herd your family members at times.

These crossbreeds are usually sociable and would get along really well with other pets.

A word of caution for families with small children and pets, this breed has a high prey drive, so they may be inclined to give chase.

Sheltie Husky Mix Appearance and Physical Characteristics

The Sheltie Husky is quite an eye-catching breed.

The thing is, the appearance of each dog will vary, but there are some common characteristics you might observe.

They are typically medium-sized dogs with well-proportioned bodies.

Since both the parent breeds are quite sleek and athletic, you can expect your pet to be naturally slender and sturdy.

Their coat is often a blend of the Sheltie’s dense and long double coat and the Husky’s thick and plush fur. 

This means that the Sheltie Husky Mix may have a medium to long coat.

The colors of their coat vary widely, including combinations of black, white, gray, brown, and sable.

One notable feature of the mix is their expressive eyes. They often inherit the striking blue eyes of the Husky or the intelligent and alert eyes of the Sheltie.  

Sheltie Husky Mix Training Tips

Training a Sheltie Husky Mix can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience, and it’s really important to approach it with patience, consistency, and a positive outlook.

As I pointed out earlier, you should start training your pet as soon as you bring them home.

Basic obedience, leash training, and socialization should be your top priorities. 

I always tell my friends and clients, make training enjoyable for you and your furry pal by using positive reinforcement. All dogs respond better to positive training methods.

Use incentives like treats, pets, and praises to encourage good behavior, and try your best to be consistent.

Don’t forget about mental stimulation too. These guys are super smart, and they’d need stimulation otherwise they’d get bored and turn to destructive behaviors.

I highly recommend that you invest in interactive games and puzzle toys to keep your pet’s mind challenged.

Let your pet interact with various people, animals, and environments as socialization will do wonders for your pet’s confidence.

Sheltie Husky Mix Exercise Needs

Being naturally energetic, your dog will definitely require a lot of opportunities to run around and burn some energy.

Aim for at least an hour of exercise a day to keep your furry pal satisfied. 

You can opt to go for a run, play fetch, or engage in agility training.

Letting them have a romp in an open space would make your pet very happy.

Next, you also wanna spend some time on regular leashed walks.

This is a great exercise and can help reinforce leash manners and socialization.

As the Sheltie Husky Mix has a natural tendency to explore its surroundings, make sure to conduct your exercises in a safe and enclosed space or have your dog leashed.

I suggest organizing doggy playdates with other active pups too as this would allow your pet to engage in social interactions and burn off energy through play.

Sheltie Husky Mix Diet Requirements

Your dog’s well-being is greatly affected by what you feed them, which means you need to make sure to choose a good quality dog food formulated for medium-sized breeds. 

Avoid foods that have high amounts of grains and focus more on those with a good balance of protein and carbs.

Protein is your active pet’s best friend, so make sure to check the dog food’s ingredients.

I recommend choosing one with chicken, fish, or beef as its main component.

Besides the food itself, establishing a consistent feeding schedule is very important too. Try to feed your dog two or three meals at a planned time. 

Quick tip: This breed tends to overeat so make sure to follow the suggested portion size. Do not give them table scraps!

My personal favorite is Ollie dog food. Ever since I switched over, my dogs have been in excellent health and they seem to love it so much!

Sheltie Husky Mix Grooming Requirements

Your pet is naturally beautiful, but they will still need grooming to help them look and feel their best.

Coat care

This mix typically has a dense double coat.

To keep that in good condition, you’ll need to regularly brush their fur.

Do this at least a few times a week using a slicker brush or an undercoat rake to remove loose hair and prevent tangles. 

Come shedding seasons, which occur twice a year, more frequent brushing may be necessary.

Pay special attention to areas with longer hair, such as the mane and tail.

Nails and paws

You need to periodically trim your dog’s nails to keep them at an appropriate length, as overgrown nails can be uncomfortable for your dog and may cause issues with their gait. 

If you’re not confident in trimming the nails yourself, please go to a professional groomer.

Furthermore, always check your dog’s paws for any signs of cuts, debris, or irritation.

Ears

Every week, take some time to Inspect your Sheltie Husky Mix’s ears.

Look for any signs of redness, inflammation, or unusual discharge. 

Clean the ears as needed using a vet-approved ear-cleaning solution and cotton balls. 

Dental care

I’m kind of surprised by some dog owners I speak to, who says they never brush their dog’s teeth. That’s a big no-no.

You need to brush your Sheltie Husky Mix’s teeth regularly, ideally daily, using a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste. 

This helps prevent plaque buildup, tartar, and gum disease.

Additionally, you can also provide them with dental chews or toys designed to promote dental health. 

Sheltie Husky Mix Popular Colors and Patterns

The Sheltie Husky Mix can have different colors and patterns in its coat.

Shades of brown and mixes of black and white are pretty common combinations, and there are also color mixes of red with white.

Something unique is that they may also have distinct white markings on their bodies. Some individuals may have a two-color pattern, while others may have a marbled effect with patches of lighter or diluted colors. 

Sheltie Husky Mix Common Health Issues

Before you bring home a Sheltie Husky mix, know that they are predisposed to certain medical conditions.

Familiarizing yourself with this info will help you be better prepared to take care of this new canine addition to your family.

Common health concerns 

These can include hip dysplasia, which is a skeletal condition that occurs when the hip joint doesn’t develop properly and can cause discomfort and mobility issues.

Eye problems like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts also afflict the Sheltie Husky.

Additionally, allergies, including skin allergies and food sensitivities, can occur in this breed mix.

Lifespan

On average, the Sheltie Husky Mix has a lifespan of around 10 to 14 years. 

However, with proper care, a healthy lifestyle, and a balanced diet, they can enjoy a long and fulfilling life as a beloved family companion.

Does a Sheltie Husky Mix Make a Good Family Pet?

A Sheltie Husky Mix can make a good family pet under the right circumstances.

After all, it is a breed known to be loyal, affectionate, and friendly towards their families.

A few important things to consider are their exercise and training needs, as well as their potential for high energy levels. 

That means that this breed will thrive in an active household that can provide ample mental and physical stimulation. 

They also require consistent training and socialization from an early age to ensure they grow into well-behaved and balanced companions. 

Pros and Cons of the Sheltie Husky Mix

Just like any other breed or mix, the Sheltie Husky mix comes with its own set of unique characteristics and considerations.

Be sure to check this out before you start your hunt for a furry pal to bring home.

Advantages of the breed

This breed is quick to learn and responds well to training. Plus, these dogs tend to form strong bonds with their families.

The Sheltie Husky mix are fun-loving dogs, they’re always up for a quick run or a game of fetch.

They excel in physical activities like hiking and jogging, making them amazing companions if you’re particularly active.

If you’re a family with children, you’re in luck. A well-trained Shelusky can be a good companion for your kids.

Disadvantages of the breed

Get ready to stay active because they have high exercise needs and won’t be happy with a couch potato lifestyle. 

Be prepared for some fur maintenance too, as these pups can shed quite a bit. This is especially true during shedding season.

Training your pet might also take a bit of patience, as these dogs can be independent and stubborn. 

You need to make sure that your fences are secure because they tend to wander and explore. 

And be ready for some lively conversations because they love to bark and howl!

Where to Find a Sheltie Husky Mix Puppy for Sale?

Ready to find a Sheltie Husky mix puppy to join your family? Here are some places you can scout to search for the perfect four-legged companion.

Rescue organizations

Your first stop should really be to check out local animal shelters or rescue groups that specialize in mixed-breed dogs. They may have Sheltie Husky Mix puppies available for adoption, which means they get another chance in life!

Breeder referrals

Reach out to other Shelusky parents for referrals to reputable breeders. You might also reach out to local vets for good breeders in their network.

Online platforms

Various online platforms, such as websites and classified ads, can connect you with breeders or individuals who have Sheltie Husky Mix puppies for sale. 

Before you do so though, make sure to exercise caution when using online platforms and ensure you thoroughly research and verify the credibility and reputation of the sellers.

How Much Does a Sheltie Husky Mix Mix Puppy Cost?

On average, you might spend anywhere from $500 to $1500 to bring home a Shelusky.

The price will depend on factors like the breeder’s reputation, the puppy’s family tree, and where you live. 

But that’s not all! There are other expenses to consider. 

Vaccinations, spaying or neutering, microchipping, and getting all the fun stuff your new furry pal needs to settle in will also set you back a few hundred dollars. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

In Conclusion: Sheltie Husky Mix

I hope this post brings you lots of clarity about this beautiful crossbreed and that you can make a solid decision based on it.

Good luck in your search (both for a dog or just knowledge), and before you go, do check out these other posts too:

• White Red Nose Pitbull
• Great Pyrenees Beagle mix
• Malinois Border Collie mix