The Australian Shepherd Husky mix, commonly known as the Aussie Husky or Aussie Siberian, is a hybrid that blends the herding instincts and intelligence of the Australian Shepherd with the endurance and playfulness of the Siberian Husky. This mix is known for being high-energy, intelligent, and affectionate, making it a fantastic companion for active families and individuals.
If you’re looking for a smart, adventurous, and social dog, the Aussie Husky might be the perfect match. However, they require plenty of exercise, training, and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
Breed Overview
| Trait | Details |
| Breed Purpose | Working dog, companion dog |
| Size | Medium to large |
| Height | 18 to 24 inches (46 to 61 cm) |
| Weight | 40 to 65 pounds (18 to 29 kg) |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Coat Type | Medium-length, thick, double coat |
| Colors | Black, white, red, blue merle, brown, or a mix |
| Temperament | Intelligent, energetic, affectionate, independent |
| Energy Level | High |
| Exercise Needs | At least 90 minutes daily |
| Shedding | Heavy (seasonal shedding) |
| Trainability | Highly trainable but can be stubborn |
| Average Price | $500 to $2,000 |
| Best For | Active families, experienced owners, outdoor lovers |
Where Did the Australian Shepherd Husky Mix Come From?
The Aussie Husky is a hybrid that combines two high-energy working breeds known for their intelligence and endurance.
- The Australian Shepherd was developed in the United States (despite its name) as a herding dog. They are highly intelligent, agile, and trainable, excelling in obedience, herding, and agility sports.
- The Siberian Husky comes from Siberia, where they were bred by the Chukchi people as sled dogs. Huskies are strong, energetic, and independent, thriving in active environments.
By mixing these breeds, the Aussie Husky inherits a blend of intelligence, endurance, and playfulness, making them excellent companions for active households.
Meet the Parent Breeds
Australian Shepherd
Aussies are high-energy, intelligent, and affectionate dogs bred for herding livestock. They are loyal, eager to learn, and thrive in active environments.
Their striking merle coats and bright eyes make them one of the most visually stunning breeds.
Siberian Husky
Huskies are athletic, independent, and social working dogs bred for pulling sleds over long distances. They are mischievous, playful, and highly energetic, making them fun but sometimes stubborn companions.
Appearance
Aussie Huskies typically inherit traits from both parents, often having:
- A medium to large athletic build
- A thick double coat that can be straight or slightly wavy
- Floppy ears like an Aussie or erect ears like a Husky
- A long, bushy tail that may curl slightly
- Striking blue, brown, or heterochromatic (one blue, one brown) eyes
Common coat colors include black, white, red, blue merle, brown, or a mix of these shades.
Temperament and Personality
The Australian Shepherd Husky mix is friendly, energetic, and highly intelligent.
Some key personality traits include:
✔ Highly trainable and eager to learn
✔ Very energetic and playful
✔ Loyal and affectionate but can be independent
✔ Sociable and good with people and other dogs
Because of their strong attachment to their owners, Aussie Huskies may develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
Are Aussie Huskies Good with Kids and Other Pets?
Yes! Aussie Huskies are great with children but should be supervised due to their high energy and herding instincts. They may try to “herd” small kids by nipping at their heels.
They usually get along well with other dogs, but their high prey drive may make them chase small pets like cats or rabbits. Early socialization helps manage this behavior.
Training and Exercise Needs
The Aussie Husky is one of the most trainable hybrids, but they require consistent training and mental challenges to prevent boredom.
They need at least 90 minutes of daily exercise, including:
✔ Long walks, jogging, or hiking
✔ Fetch, frisbee, or agility training
✔ Mental stimulation with puzzle toys and obedience training
Without enough activity, they may develop destructive behaviors like excessive barking, digging, or chewing.
Grooming and Shedding
Aussie Huskies have moderate to high grooming needs due to their thick double coat. Their shedding increases during seasonal changes, so regular brushing is essential.
Grooming tasks include:
✔ Brushing 3-4 times per week (daily during shedding seasons)
✔ Bathing every 6-8 weeks
✔ Trimming nails every few weeks
✔ Cleaning ears regularly to prevent infections
✔ Dental care to maintain oral health
Common Health Issues
Australian Shepherd Husky mixes are generally healthy dogs, but they may inherit certain genetic health conditions, including:
- Elbow and hip dysplasia (common in large breeds)
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) (an eye condition leading to vision loss)
- Epilepsy (common in Aussies)
- Deafness (sometimes found in merle-colored dogs)
- Allergies and skin problems
Regular vet checkups, a nutritious diet, and an active lifestyle help prevent many of these issues.
How Much Should You Feed an Australian Shepherd Husky Mix?
Aussie Huskies require a high-protein, well-balanced diet to support their energy levels. They typically need 2.5 to 4 cups of high-quality dry kibble per day, split into two meals.
Since they are high-energy dogs, they do best on a diet rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins.
How Much Does an Australian Shepherd Husky Mix Cost?
The price for an Aussie Husky puppy ranges from $500 to $2,000, depending on the breeder, location, and lineage. Adoption from a rescue or shelter is often a more affordable option.
Is an Australian Shepherd Husky Mix Right for You?
The Aussie Husky is a loving, intelligent, and high-energy companion that thrives in homes where they receive plenty of exercise, training, and mental challenges. If you’re curious about other energetic herding mixes, check out the Australian Blue Heeler Mix for another smart and hardworking breed combo.