While the Husky is an enduring dog that will start fooling around without plenty of exercise, the Sheepdog is trained to do a good job with proper training. Due to its original origin, the Husky is not a beginner dog and is happiest when allowed to pull weights. With the Husky, exercise is the be-all and end-all, so he originally descends from Alaska, where he was used for pulling sledges. There, it was a matter of running several kilometres and this type is still in his character.
The German Shepherd is one of the most popular dog breeds. Due to his obedient character and his courage, he is trainable if he has been properly socialised. This is how his uses show themselves in different situations.
When choosing between a Husky or a German Shepherd, there are some special features between these giants. We’ll show you the ins and outs of both breeds and what you’re getting into should you choose one.
Two giants among dog breeds
It is not their medium-sized bodies that make them both giants, but the outstanding importance of their breed and their characteristics. Both are impressive dog breeds with erect ears, descended from the Asian wolf. They need high quality, very high protein food. Take them cycling, jogging and hiking!
The Siberian Husky (Siberian Husky)
Mostly meant when you say “Husky” (Alaskan Husky, on the other hand, is a mixture of Siberian Husky with Indian dogs, greyhounds, etc.).
Husky means “strong”, derived from “Huskemaw” (Eskimo), for a long time he was simply called “Eskimo Dog”. Husky is a generic term for Nordic dogs, with 5 recognised Husky species.
Breed profile Siberian Husky
The Husky – often known by this short name – is one of the oldest dog breeds. The Taimyr wolf is closer in kinship than is the case with other dog breeds.
Because of this ancestry and because of its original home, it can survive in minus 50 degrees.
- Character: friendly, affectionate, intelligent, sociable, very eager to learn
- Size 53 – 60 cm males, 50 to 56 cm females
- Weight 21 – 27 kg males, 16 – 22 kg females
- Colours – all colours are allowed
- Life expectancy up to 12 years
The Husky is on the one hand suitable as a family dog and on the other hand a perfect sledge dog. In his homeland, he enabled the Eskimos to travel long distances through the icy wind to the next village.
And that is exactly what distinguishes him: His tremendous stamina, which wants to be satisfied. The husky is known in this country as a lovers’ dog breed. Moreover, they hardly bark and have friendly dispositions.
Its job is to move around, so it is not suitable as a guard dog, as it would be far too friendly towards intruders.
Care and training
The Husky needs a consistent hand, lots of exercise, understanding and attention. He likes to put his energy into work.
Instead of sledding, canicross (pulling a wheeled vehicle), bikejöring (pulling a mountain bike), skijöring (pulling a skier) will also work out. He definitely needs a garden, several hours of exercise every day and always new ways to use his energy wisely.
Over long distances, the Husky can also be exercised on a bicycle, for example.
Without sufficient exercise and in all weathers, the dear Husky can otherwise become quite a stubborn dog who does what he wants.
His hunting instinct should not be forgotten. This is very strong and should be kept in check from an early age. He will hunt and eat chickens and ducks if you don’t stop him!
Huskies are undemanding eaters and are content with what they get to eat. Normally, a food mix for him can consist of 2/3 meat and 1/3 vegetables (also dog flakes, cooked rice).
As the coat changes twice a year, you must brush him well.
For whom is the Husky suitable?
With a Husky, you get a lot of exercise and a lot of workout in your home. A good portion of discipline and experience with dogs is necessary for a Husky.
A house with a garden is a must when keeping a Husky. This way, small training sessions can be carried out in the garden. Keeping a Husky indoors is difficult, so the lack of space outside must be compensated for by much more exercise.
If you can adapt to his needs and have fallen in love with this dog breed, you should still remember to choose only a reputable breeder.
Breed profile German Shepherd Dog
The diversity of this dog breed can be seen in the different areas of use. Whether as working dogs, in avalanche protection or with the police – with specific training the German Shepherd Dog is very docile.
All over the world the Sheepdog is popular and so breedings of Belgian or Croatian Sheepdogs branch off from this direction.
- Character courageous, intelligent, self-confident, willing to work, resilient
- Size between 55 and 65 cm
- Weight between 22 – 30 kg (bitches) up to 30 – 40 kg (males)
- Colours sable, black, light brown
- Life expectancy between 9 and 14 years
The character of the shepherd dog is reliable, self-confident, resilient and can also turn into the opposite. Aggressive comrades of this breed could not enjoy proper socialisation in puppyhood.
But you can buy a good sheepdog from a reputable breeder. Why are puppies so expensive?
One problem with Sheepdogs is hip problems, which is due to their severely lowered backs.
Care and training
The German Shepherd is a dog you need to know how to train properly. Some approach this dog with harshness and severity, others with praise and reprimand.
Whichever way you choose, the Sheepdog is smart and wants to please by learning new exercises with you.
His mission in life is to do a job that encourages him to do the right thing. In any case, it is important to keep him busy with appropriate tasks.
The dog school offers a lot of variety for this and you can of course also look after him appropriately at home.
The coat of a German Shepherd sheds all year round, basically every day. That is why regular grooming is important.
For whom is the sheepdog suitable?
Since the German Shepherd is a dog in its own right, it takes a lot more knowledge to do justice to this dog. In order for the joy to last, it is also necessary to learn what to do when problems arise.
You should have a lot of ideas about how to entertain this dog.
In any case, this dog is not a beginner’s dog! You can find more information about the German Shepherd and its training here.
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Conclusion on two dog breeds that both need a lot of exercise
While the Husky is an enduring dog that will start fooling around without plenty of exercise, the Sheepdog is trained to do a good job with proper training.
Due to its original origin, the Husky is not a beginner dog and is happiest when allowed to pull weights.
With the Husky, exercise is the be-all and end-all, so he originally descends from Alaska, where he was used for pulling sledges. There, it was a matter of running several kilometres and this type is still in his character.
The German Shepherd is one of the most popular dog breeds. Due to his obedient character and his courage, he is trainable if he has been properly socialised. This is how his uses show themselves in different situations.
His field of application is varied and can range from professional searching to agility. The main thing is that the shepherd dog gets plenty of exercise.
