Chusky (Chow Chow & Siberian Husky Mix): Info, Pictures, Care & More

The gorgeous Chusky is a hybrid, fusing the protectiveness of a Chow Chow with the activity level of a husky. These stunning specimens are built for chilly temperatures—touting thick coats and muscular bodies.

These are incredibly intelligent, loyal dogs with incredible personalities and stunning structures. Because of this, however, they are quite protective and might not be the best candidates for specific lifestyles. But if you want a high-energy guard dog that loves the snow—here it is.

Chusky Characteristics

Chusky Puppies

The total cost for a Chusky puppy will depend on the breeding quality, reputation, and the area that you live. Because this is a hybrid breed, backyard breeding and puppy mill situations can be very common. Always screen any potential breeder, assuring a solid reputation for healthy litters.

Since this is a mix, you might be able to find one of these dogs in a shelter or rescue facility. Costs include vaccinations, vet care, microchipping, and spay or neuter surgery.

Temperament & Intelligence of the Chusky 🧠

The Chusky combines two breeds that are a force to be reckoned with in their own right. Because of their intense braininess and stubborn wills, they can be quite a challenge to work with. But with a firm hand and strict regimen, you can find excellent companionship with this hybrid. Because of their particular tendencies toward territorial aggression, early socialization is crucial. This breed can make terrific watchdogs, but they also need heavy restrictions. Without the best judgment of threats, your dog needs to know the difference between an actual threat and otherwise. Huskies are known escape artists, which is why proper reinforcements are so necessary. They are smart enough to weasel or dig themselves out of just about anything. They love to roam and have trouble coming home when called. However, Chows tend to be more home-bodied. So while they will still need proper security, their inclination for escaping will vary from puppy to puppy.

Are These Dogs Good for Families 👪

These dogs can make charming additions to suitable families, but you want to be sure you're ready for the combo. Since they are a bit bossy and territorial, they can be a bit of a handful for inexperienced owners. These dogs can do well with children around six years of age or older, permitting proper temperament. These dogs can be very protective and parental with kids, so always make sure to socialize with lots of people. If you don't have the time to spend with these dogs, they can be a little needy. Also, because of their social nature, they can get depressed and even destructive if they're left alone too long.

Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets 🐶 😽

This breed can get along with other dogs, permitting they are raised together. However, they can develop territorial aggression, especially in same-sex pairs. If you have existing dogs, it might be best to get a puppy so they can grow up together. Both dogs have pretty high prey drives. They might not acclimate to smaller pets, including cats, even with early introductions. Caution is highly advised here.

Things to Know When Owning a Chusky:

Food & Diet Requirements 🦴

If you get a Chusky of your own, they require high-quality dry kibble for healthfulness. There is some controversy out there on wet food and grain-free diets. Always go over any dietary restrictions with your vet to offer your dog the best nutrition possible. If you make raw or cooked homemade diets in the kitchen, it's important to gain professional approval of your recipe. If the recipe has too few or too many nutrients, it can lead to malnutrition or obesity.

Exercise 🐕

The energy levels of a Chusky fall somewhere between medium to high. The Chow is a pretty lackadaisical breed, while the Husky is full of energy. We assume the outcome lies somewhere in the middle—but there is a spectrum of possibility here. On average, these dogs need about 45 minutes of exercise per day to stay happy and healthy. Due to potential aggression, these dogs might not be good candidates for dog parks.

Training 🎾

Training your Chusky can prove difficult if you are new to dog-owning. Even more, experienced canine lovers may bite off more than they can chew. These dogs make excellent candidates for people who want to be busy with their dogs. Chuskys have the brains, but do they have the will? Even though these dogs are classically trainable, it might be a challenge depending on your pup's traits. Chusky's might have a slight problem with their attention, as the Husky parent is usually more neurotic. Chows tend to be more stubborn, and some of them are prone to aggression. This breed would highly benefit from professional training.

Grooming ✂️

You will definitely need to stay on top of grooming with the Chusky around. These dogs have thick, dense double coats that shed year-round. In the spring and fall, they have two major shed periods where they lose a bulk of their hair. Every day brushing should be a routine part of care. But during these months, make sure you keep on top of the tuft of hair floating around your home. A slicker brush and de-shedding tool work well to keep their coat under control. But, you can opt to take them to the breeder about every six weeks.

Health and Conditions 🏥

Because the Chusky is a hybrid breed, they can take on health issues from both parent sides. Buying from a reputable breeder and keeping up with vetting will help you stay ahead of the game. The first year you have your puppy, it's crucial to get them into every checkup. They will need all necessary vaccinations, general exams, and spay or neuter surgery. After that, your pup will visit annually for monitoring. Husky and chow breeds are both pretty healthy, but specific health issues might pop up. It's best to gauge all possibilities so you can save for potential healthcare costs.

Male vs. Female

When it comes to the over-aesthetic of the breed, males and females can vary in size, color, and bodily structure. So it's hard to pinpoint if those things are reliant on gender alone.

Generally, males are bulkier than females, with muscular frames and blocky heads. Conversely, females are athletically built, more slender, and usually have narrower faces.

These dogs can take on the personality traits of both parents, so there is no real difference between gender this way. However, these dogs can have same-sex aggression, so early socialization is key.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Chusky

1. Chow Chows are a notoriously aggressive breed.

Chow chows were originally fiercely guarded and protected livestock and homes. Since their territorial aggression has stayed in place, this makes them excellent candidates for watchdog duties.

2. Huskies were bred to be incredibly sturdy, hardy dogs.

Because of the harsh winter climates, Chukchi people developed the Husky to handle the elements. These dogs can survive in freezing temperatures without rations for quite a while (though we don't recommend that.)

3. Huskies and Chow Chows both have double coats.

Both parent breeds are equipped with fancy winter coats all year round—so shedding is a definite here. This breed combo has litters of extra squishy, fluffy double-coated puppies.

Final Thoughts

If you think the magnificent Chusky belongs in your family, it's time to start browsing. Remember to ensure the breeder is authentic and that your puppy is healthy before bringing them home. As always, adoption is a noble thing. If you find a lovely Chusky in need of a home, you might just make the best choice of all. No matter what method you choose, make sure the puppy or adult is compatible with existing members of your household. You May Also Want to Read:

• German Shepherd Chow Mix

• Jindo Husky Mix: Pictures, Care, Info & More

Featured Image Credit to: Dolores M Harvey, Shutterstock