Pitsky Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the Pitsky?

Have you ever wondered how Pitskies came to be? The origins of this breed are as clear as daylight. You can immediately notice the visual genetics of an American Pit Bull Terrier and the characteristics of the Siberian Husky.

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a purebred dog, but it still isn't recognised by the American Kennel Club because of its constant name change and probably changing breed standards. In contrast, the AKC has recognised the Siberian Husky from way back in 1930.

Both parent breeds of this Pitbull-Husky mix have a strong character and personality that makes some people fear them.

Who are Pitsky dogs best for?

There is a world of stubbornness behind that adorable Pitsky puppy face, especially when trying obedience training techniques. Even at a young age, the Pitbull-Husky mix requires extra attention and care for the pup to be responsive to training.

At the same time, this Pitbull-Husky mix may suffer from separation anxiety and could take it out on inanimate objects around the house. With that said first-time dog owners might not be the best parents for this breed.

A Pitsky might also play a little rough with other pets unless early socialisation got initiated at a tender age. Therefore, this breed could challenge you if you have other animals, especially without a proper training routine. Other than that, this Pitbull-Husky mix has the potential to be a good family dog.

How much grooming does a Pitsky need?

Many husky mix dog breeds tend to have a double coat, leading to excessive shedding. However, the Husky-Pitbull mix must have taken the shorter coat genes from its Pitbull parent.

Pit bulls do not have a long coat, but it's relatively smoother and not prone to above-average shedding. Similarly, Pitskies do not have challenging grooming needs, making them a better fit for people suffering from allergies.

Do Pitsky bark much?

A Pitsky can get a little bit overprotective. Its fierce loyalty can prompt barking at strangers and other household animals. When this breed feels frustrated, it will bark or howl until it gets your attention.

You can follow some available training techniques and routines to get an obedient pup that can grow into an excellent guard dog that only barks when necessary. For example, being stern and not succumbing to this dog's demands immediately when it barks can be helpful.

Also, at least 2 hours of exercise daily can reduce barking levels to a minimum.

Do Pitsky bite?

One of the strongest suits of this breed is its emotional intelligence. Therefore, you can quickly implement traditional bite inhibition for puppies. For example, when a Pitsky starts nipping and biting, yelp loudly and withdraw your hand.

Also, do not encourage this dog's destructive behaviour directly or indirectly. For example, refrain from feeling sympathetic to a show of remorse after this dog has destroyed household items due to frustrations. Instead, enforce other constructive coping mechanisms and rather introduce chewy toys to deal with anxiety.

What is the temperament & personality of a Pitsky?

Since a Pitbull is a parent breed for Pitskies, people imagine that this dog is aggressive and has a short fuse. That is not true. This breed is a bit territorial because that is how it expresses its affection for its owner, but they have a very cheerful spirit.

The protective nature of Pitskies makes them the best guard dogs for families. There is proof that this breed is not aggressive, as it has gotten hailed for being the perfect dog for families, even in households with children. Additionally, a Pitsky is very energetic and requires a lot of exercise.

When Pitskies do not get plenty of exercise or attention, that is when they might start destroying household items. However, they are not prone to harming human beings.

What is the weight & size of a Pitsky?

Each Pitsky varies in weight and size, but the average range is between 13 kg to 36 kg. This weight is for a height ranging between 40 cm and 64 cm. Pitskies are a medium to large breed with this average weight and size.

Try to maintain your pup's weight within this range to prevent obesity and potential health problems.

How much training does a Pitsky need?

Training a Pitsky is a job and a half. A lot of repetition is required due to the stubborn nature of this pup. That is one of the main reasons it is not suitable for first-time pet owners who are inexperienced with breeds that are challenging to train.

If you would like to adopt this pup as a novice, consider seeking professional dog training assistance. Or first, try to train your Pitsky to manage its separation anxiety and exhibit respectful behaviour constructively. Then, with extra effort and tender loving care, you can get it right as time goes on.

What are some of the most common health issues for a Pitsky?

Hip dysplasia is amongst the most common health conditions that bother Pitskies. Also, this Husky cross with the American Staffordshire Terrier (Fancy name for Pitbull) can suffer from hyperthyroidism, so watch out for gagging, vomiting, or an irregular heartbeat.

If you have any concerns, visit the veterinarian for a wellness check and ensure that your pup gets enough exercise. Also, keep a close eye on your dog's diet for a healthy hound that is fit and has minimal few complications as possible.

What is the lifespan of a Pitsky?

This medium-large dog breed can live a long, satisfying life when kept healthy and fit. Once this pup becomes an adult dog, it can live for 16 years, a very impressive life expectancy.

The lifespan of a Husky-Pitbull mix is very impressive because most other breeds commonly have a life expectancy ranging between 10 to 13 years. Therefore, this makes Pitskies one of the relatively longest-living designer dogs. The Pitbull and Husky parents also have lifespans averaging the same as Pitskies, so these genes run in the family.

How much should you feed a Pitsky?

Free feeding is an absolute no because this breed is prone to weight gain leading to obesity and other health complications. Instead, control the diet of your Pitsky by offering servings according to their weight and size. With the average weight and size mentioned above, try to limit food servings to 2.5-3 cups of dry kibble.

Do not give out snacks without a sound monitoring system in place. The number of snacks should depend on their type and the number of carbs each serving has. A substitute for many snacks would be training your hound during mealtime instead of incentivising using unhealthy alternatives.

What is the price of a Pitsky in Australia?

Pitskies are not a common breed, and because of this, they can be a little pricey. Depending on the value-added benefits such as vaccination status and microchipping, this breed can cost up to $2000. However, some breeders do offer puppies from their litter at lower prices.

Lower-priced Pitsky pups cost around $500, but you might have to do all the necessary vaccinations and microchipping. Alternatively, opt for adopting a Pitsky if there is one at a local dog shelter or from an animal rescue organisation.