“It can only be great!”
That might be what’s running on your head when you hear the mix of a Rottweiler and a Siberian Husky.
These purebreds are a powerhouse. So what will become of it when it is crossed together to create a Rottweiler Husky Mix?
Well, read along to find out!
Table of Contents
What is a Rottweiler Husky Mix?
The Rottweiler Husky Mix is one of the rarer designer dog breeds (yes, that’s how the mixes from purebreds are called!).
The other half is a Rottweiler. It is a muscular, smart, and dependable German dog known for its great guarding abilities. It is American Kennel Club’s 8th most popular breed and is also used in military and police services. It is part of AKC’s working group.
Siberian Husky is also a part of the working group. It is known for pulling sleds in the snowy mountains of Siberia. This 14th most popular dog of AKC also has an elegant body shape. And this dog is also very energetic and very athletic.
While both are considered strong dogs, they have different personalities. You can only imagine how the Rottweiler Husky Mix, also called Rottsky, will look like and even act! Plus the fact that it is a rare mixed breed and not yet registered with AKC so no standards to guide you. With this, it is best to read much about their parent breeds.
Origins of the Rottweiler Husky Mix
It is not uncommon for a mixed breed like the Rottweiler Husky Mix not to have an exact account of its origin. So, again, we look at each of the parent breeds instead!
First, let’s take a look at the Rottweiler which descended from the mastiffs of the Roman legions. As early as 700 AD, the Romans were already employing them to protect cattle and drive them to the market. They were known for this work and that’s where they got their name. They were called “Rottweiler Metzgerhund”. It translates to the Butcher’s Dog of Rottweil.
In the 1880s, these muscular, confident, and loyal dogs became a popular choice as a guide and police dogs. They were recognized by the AKC in 1931.
The Siberian Husky is known for its striking blue eyes and furry double- coated body.
Originating from its namesake, it was the nomadic Russian tribe of the Chukchis who first bred this big dog. Apart from being a great companion dog, they also help in transporting goods and passengers across its icy terrain. They are an important member of the tribe as they also warm children and women in their sleep.
What made them popular was that instance in 1925 when Leonhard Seppala led a life and death relay of Siberian Huskies to rush a serum for epidemic diphtheria to Nome, Alaska. Touted as the “serum run”, it has received a lot of press around the globe skyrocketing its popularity.
To commemorate also the momentous life-saving event, Balto, the lead dog has an erect statue of him at Central Park.
The breed became part and was recognized by AKC in 1930. It is also its 87th breed.
The Appearance of a Rottweiler Husky Mix
What will a Rottsky look like? Will it appear to be a Siberian Husky with the color of a Rottweiler? Or perhaps have a build of a Rottweiler with some traces of a Husky?
The truth is, it can be anywhere from the Siberian Husky to the Rottweiler spectrum! That’s the trade-off of a mixed breed, it varies per pup and time can only really tell. Again, looking at both its parents has merits.
What does a Rottweiler look like? You will know a Rottweiler because it has a very intimidating look about it. They have a muscular body that stands tall with an attractive short coat which is predominantly black with a combination of rust, mahogany, or tan.
They have long, floppy ears coupled with a wide jaw and it is bigger than a Husky. They can grow as much as 27 inches and weigh about 135 pounds.
To weather the cold, Siberian Huskies meanwhile have a thick, double coat with a wolfish appearance. They also have pointy ears, narrow snouts, and eye color that are commonly striking blue or brown.
Their usual color is black and white but reddish-brown fur also exists. Their muscular body is coupled with big feet perfect to get through the snow. Huskies grow as tall as 23.5 inches and weigh 60 pounds.
Your Rottsky for sure will be a muscular and powerfully built mix-breed that is fast and agile. They usually have slightly longer muzzles, partially drooping ears, and a leaner form than the Husky.
Their almond-shaped eyes can be deep brown or piercing blue but they can also be multi-colored eyes, also called heterochromia, due to their Husky parent. Its nose color can be black, brown, or isabella.
Both parents have double coats whilst having different textures. Rottweilers have short coats with an undercoat present on their neck and thighs triggered by climatic conditions whilst Huskies have thick coats that protect them from the harsh weather condition of Northern Russia.
With this, Rottskies will have longer fur than Rottweilers and much thicker.
In the same light, as both parents also shed moderately to intensely, Rottsky pups are also relatively high shedders.
Color coats of the Rottsky can be black, grey, brown, red, cream, white, and sable coupled with a black, brown, or liver-colored nose.
Rottskies will also be a medium to large breed depending on the dominant parent gene. Expect your little pooch to grow from 22-26 in (56-66 cm) tall with a weight of 50-110 lbs (23-50 kg).
Grooming a Rottweiler Husky Mix
So you already know that your Rottsky is not the hypoallergenic type as their thick and heavy coat will shed moderately to heavily. Grooming your Rottsky will entail weekly brushing to keep it from tangling, matting, and even bug infestation.
A pin brush, comb, and deshedder will be a handy tool in keeping your Rottsky spic and span. An occasional visit to a professional groomer to maintain their fluffy coat is recommended.
Baths are also an important part of their grooming although it should not be too frequent to strip off the natural oils in their body. When drying them, especially if they have a Husky-like coat, make sure it is completely dry as moisture left in their undercoat can lead to molds and mildew. Yikes!
Just like other dogs, brushing their teeth at least twice a week will help prevent dental problems. Their nails also need regular trimming and it is also ideal so as not to accidentally scratch you.
The Temperament of the Rottweiler Husky Mix
AKC describes Rottweilers as a loving, loyal, and confident guardian that will form a deep bond with its family and protect them at all costs. Contrary to popular belief, they are also not unduly aggressive. They are playful and they love lots of cuddle time with their humans.
Siberian Huskies meanwhile are also loyal, outgoing but mischievous. They love living with the pack therefore, adapting to family life is no biggie to them. They are always also described as dignified and hardworking but they can be gentle and vocal at the same time.
What will you expect from your Rottsky? They are a fantastic family pet that is very loving, affectionate, and just like its parents, a great protector. When trained properly, they are also active and social creatures.
At a glance, here are some of the words that can describe your Rottsky:
- Active
- Affectionate
- Aggressive
- Alert
- Brave
- Destructive if unattended to
- High Prey Drive
- Intelligent
- Eager to Learn
- Friendly
- Loyal
- Independent
- Outgoing
- Playful
- Happy
- Protective
Is Rottsky a good guard dog? Well, it’s quite a tricky question. Rottweilers are regarded as one of the best guard dogs but a Husky is not aggressive and may even be aloof to strangers so your Rottsky will be somewhat in the middle, a perfect balance.
Is Rottsky friendly? Again, another hard question. Rottweilers are aloof when out of their homes but Huskies are sociable creatures so your Rottsky might be friendly or aloof. But if it is about a dog of the same sex, they may show aggression.
Are they playful? Yes! This energetic breed will love to play games with you. Since they are playful and energetic, coupled with a high prey drive coming from both parents, they may always chase small animals and even cats! So consider that if you have other pets.
Is the Rottweiler Husky Mix a Great Family Pet?
Rottskies can be great in a family setting and they will love to play and socialize with you. They will also be a great companion for active families and playmates to energetic kids.
When properly trained, they will also behave appropriately and will give children and other immediate family members loyalty and protection.
But it is important to note that they can be aggressive sometimes so kids must always be supervised.
Exercise Needs of the Rottweiler Husky Mix
Rottweilers are hard-working dogs and they love swimming, walking, and trotting so daily exercise is a must!
Huskies are also the same! They are ultra-marathoner who can run 100 miles a day! They are also athletic dogs that will need plenty of time to exercise and play.
With this, your Rottsky is not for the couch potato. Coming from both active and energetic parents, they will need a solid 60 to 90 minutes of exercise every single day.
Preferably, their exercise can be split into the morning and afternoon. Since exercise should be taken seriously for this breed, here are some activities that you can do to work their incessant energy off:
- Agility Training
- Chasing
- Competitive sports
- Fetching
- Herding
- Hiking
- Jogging
- Jumping
- Playing fetch
- Running
- Sled pulling
- Swimming
- Trekking
- Tugging (of war!)
- Walking
- Anything else high intensity
Apart from physical stimulation, this breed also needs to be provided with mental exercises like playing puzzles and whatnot! A Rottsky that doesn’t get enough exercise can develop destructive habits from barking too much to chewing the furniture. Besides, a tired dog is a happy dog as they always say.
So given their energy needs, although it is not a hard requirement, your Rottsky will do best in a home where it can stretch its legs, roam around and play! If you live in an apartment though, make sure your Rottsky will still meet its daily exercise needs.
If you are an active family who loves the great outdoors, a Rottsky might be the companion dog you are looking for!
Is the Rottweiler Husky Mix Highly Trainable?
Rottweilers are smart dogs. They are one of the top 10 smartest dogs! At the 9th spot, these ultra-bright dogs can understand new commands in fewer than 5 repetitions and obey the first command 95% of the time.
Siberian Huskies are also intelligent, only that they are a bit stubborn. They are at the 45th spot with average working intelligence. They follow new commands after 25 to 40 repetitions and obey the first command 50% of the time. Probably, half the time, this independent streaked dog will weigh if they will decide to listen or not.
Given this, your Rottsky can be an extra challenge to train especially if you are a novice dog owner. Yes, they also have that stubborn streak thanks to its Husky parent. While of course, 95% of the time, Rottskies can be trained but the training process is not a walk in the park.
When training your Rottsky, it is best to start while they are still a puppy. Remember also that they will follow best in a training that is short but fun and exciting! So a good 15 to 20 minutes session is already good.
Since they are also smart, it is more likely that repetitive commands will only be met with defiance. Or maybe, because they find it too boring! It also helps when they have that delicious treat coupled with positive reinforcement.
As their independent thinking will defy you and push your limits, always remain consistent and never give up on your pup!
House training will be easy for them but behavioral training will be a challenge. Other areas that you also need to focus on are socialization, crate training, and leash biting.
Where do you also start with commands? The first four important commands for your Rottsky are also “sit, stay, lay down, and come”. This will be the foundation of the other commands.
So, all the best in training your Rottsky! If the going gets tough, always remember that puppy training class is always a choice. But it is never an option to skip training.
Food and Nutrition Requirements of the Rottweiler Husky Mix
A muscular and energetic dog like your Rottsky will need a high-quality kibble that also considers their age, size, medical history, and a lot more. A high protein, preferably at least 25%, medium to high fat, and low carbs will be the best combo for them.
Since they also tend to bloat, it is best to feed your pup 3 times a day. You may also follow the 8 am, 3 pm, and 7 pm clock. Once they grow into an adult, you can reduce their meals to twice a day of 3 to 4 cups of food.
What are the Common Health Issues of the Rottweiler Husky Mix?
Both parent breeds are predisposed to certain health issues and contrary to the belief, cross-breeding them will not make their risk lower. Below are some of the common health issues of the Rottweiler Husky mix:
- Hip dysplasia
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Osteosarcoma (bone tumor)
- osteochondritis Dissecans (immense joint pain)
- Bloat
- Von Willebrand’s disease or vWD (blood-clotting disease)
- Arthritis
It always starts with a reputable breeder. Always check for health certificates and proof of vet examination of the pup and the parents.
What is the Average Lifespan of a Rottweiler Husky Mix?
Rottweilers live from 9 to 10 years while Huskies have a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years. If your Rottsky is well taken care of, they have a healthy average lifespan of 10 to 14 years.
How Much is a Rottweiler Husky Mix?
Interested in buying a Rottsky? They are priced between $500 to $1,000 depending on the breeder.
Always go for a reputable one and do not forget these reminders:
- Take a look at the dog’s current situation. Don’t rush things. Make time to visit them and see their parents.
- Seek medical history and health screening documentation. Forewarned is forearmed. If you are also dealing with a reputable breeder, they won’t have any issues providing you those.
Although they are rare, adoption is also a good option. Of course, it has its drawbacks but the most important thing is you get to save a dog’s life and give them another chance to be happy again.
Conclusion: Is the Rottweiler Husky Mix the Dog for You?
If you love the outdoors, not a first-time owner, and are eager for a guard dog, that’s a green signal for you. Apart from their basic needs, the most important thing also is that you have much love to give to your Rottsky and you will stick with them no matter what until the end of time.
Leave a Reply