What is a Ausky?
The Ausky is a designer dog breed created by crossing a Australian Shepherd with a Siberian Husky. This mix has become popular because it combines the best qualities of both parent breeds. Australian Shepherds bring smart and work-oriented personalities, while Siberian Huskys contribute their loyal and outgoing nature.
Most Auskys weigh between 38 and 63 pounds and stand 19 to 23 inches tall at the shoulder. Their lifespan ranges from 12 to 15 years with proper care. Because this is a mixed breed, individual dogs can vary quite a bit in appearance and temperament depending on which parent they take after more.
If you are considering adopting or buying a Ausky, understanding both parent breeds helps you prepare for what to expect. Use our breed quiz to see if a Ausky fits your lifestyle, or check the calorie calculator to plan their nutrition.
Parent Breeds at a Glance
| Trait | Australian Shepherd | Siberian Husky |
|---|---|---|
| Size | medium | medium |
| Weight | 40-65 lbs | 35-60 lbs |
| Height | 18-23" | 20-23" |
| Lifespan | 12-15 yrs | 12-14 yrs |
| Activity | Very High | Very High |
| Grooming | Moderate | High |
| AKC Group | Herding | Working |
Ausky Temperament and Personality
The Ausky typically shows a blend of personality traits from both parents. Common traits include being smart, work-oriented, exuberant, loyal. Individual personalities can lean more toward one parent, so meeting the specific puppy before committing is always a good idea.
Early socialization plays a big role in how any dog develops. Expose your Ausky puppy to different people, dogs, sounds, and environments during the first 16 weeks. This builds confidence and reduces the chance of fear-based behaviors later in life.
Health and Common Conditions
Mixed breeds often have fewer health problems than purebreds because of increased genetic diversity. That said, Auskys can still inherit conditions from either parent breed. Regular vet visits and preventive care go a long way in keeping your dog healthy.
Health issues to watch for:
- ● Hip Dysplasia
- ● Elbow Dysplasia
- ● Collie Eye Anomaly
- ● Epilepsy
- ● Cataracts
- ● Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Ask for health clearances from the breeder before buying a Ausky puppy. Responsible breeders test both parent dogs for hip dysplasia, eye conditions, and breed-specific genetic disorders.
Grooming Needs
Grooming level: High
Auskys require regular brushing (3-4 times per week minimum) and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. Their coat can mat easily if neglected.
Check our grooming schedule tool for a personalized plan.
Exercise Requirements
Activity level: Very High
Auskys need 60-90 minutes of daily exercise. Long walks, runs, fetch, and agility games keep them physically and mentally happy.
Use our calorie calculator to match food intake with activity level.
Feeding Your Ausky
A Ausky weighing 38 to 63 pounds typically needs about 570 to 945 calories per day, depending on age and activity level. Puppies need calorie-dense food split into 3-4 meals. Adult dogs do well with 2 meals per day.
High-quality protein should be the foundation of your Ausky's diet. Check our best food for Australian Shepherds and best food for Siberian Huskys for brand recommendations that work well for this mix. For puppies, our puppy weight calculator helps track healthy growth.
Ausky FAQ
How big does a Ausky get?
A full-grown Ausky typically weighs between 38 and 63 pounds. Size can vary depending on which parent's genes are more dominant.
How long do Auskys live?
The average Ausky lifespan is 12 to 15 years. Mixed breed dogs often benefit from genetic diversity, which can reduce certain breed-specific health risks.
Are Auskys good family dogs?
Auskys tend to be great family dogs. They inherit traits from both Australian Shepherds and Siberian Huskys, which often includes a friendly and loyal temperament. Early socialization is still important for any dog.
Do Auskys shed a lot?
Shedding depends on which parent's coat the Ausky inherits. Australian Shepherds have moderate grooming needs, while Siberian Huskys have high grooming needs. Your Ausky's coat type will determine how much brushing is required.
How much exercise does a Ausky need?
Auskys need regular daily exercise. With a Australian Shepherd parent (Very High energy) and a Siberian Husky parent (Very High energy), expect your Ausky to need at least 30 to 60 minutes of activity per day.
What health problems do Auskys have?
Auskys can be prone to health issues from both parent breeds, including Hip Dysplasia, Elbow Dysplasia, Collie Eye Anomaly, Epilepsy. Regular vet checkups and a balanced diet help prevent many of these conditions.
How much does a Ausky cost?
Ausky puppies typically cost between $1,000 and $3,000 from a reputable breeder. Prices vary based on the breeder's location, parent pedigree, and coat color. Adoption from a rescue is a more affordable option and usually costs $200 to $500.
Are Auskys easy to train?
Both Australian Shepherds and Siberian Huskys are known for their intelligence, which usually makes Auskys responsive to training. Positive reinforcement methods work best. Start training and socialization early for the best results.