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A Guide to the Charming Chusky
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A Guide to the Charming Chusky

Critter Culture Staff

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The chusky is a chow chow and Siberian husky mix. Breeders likely tried this combination because chows and Siberians are intelligent and share some of the same attributes. They are gorgeous dogs that make great pets and watchdogs due to their size and temperament. When fully grown, they can weigh anywhere from 40 to 65 pounds.

1

A great family companion

This is an affectionate and loyal family pet, and it's unlikely that a Chusky would intentionally hurt anyone in their family. That said, they are also very protective and can be aggressive when a new person comes into their space, whether it's an adult or child. Chuskies are pretty big dogs that can get overexuberant at times, so they may be a bit much for small children.

2

These big dogs are smart with a stubborn streak

chow chow dog Dima27 / Getty Images

Chow chows and Siberian huskies are both medium to large-sized working dogs that are intelligent and a bit stubborn, and they usually pass these traits onto their offspring. Chuskies are likely to inherit a determined, stubborn streak from their parents. This can make them a bit difficult at times, which requires a lot of patience and consistency to work through. Because of this, they do better with an experienced dog owner as they might be a little overwhelming for a newbie.

3

Chuskies are generally healthy

Chuskies are a healthy breed prone to the same conditions as a chow chow and Siberian husky. These include hip dysplasia, cataracts, and entropion, a condition in which the eyelid flips inward and irritates the cornea. The best way to avoid these and any other health problems is to use a reputable breeder. Also, if the parents of the chusky are purebred, there's a slightly smaller chance of health problems as thoroughbreds are usually certified as not having significant health issues. Regular vet checkups are also a must. A healthy chusky usually lives as long as 10 to 13 years.

4

They have a strong prey drive and will try to run

Chuskies are likely to chase small animals away from the house. This is due to the combination of their natural prey drive and their desire to protect their family. They should not be left outside unless they are leashed or fenced in because they will take off running. But, at the end of the day, chuskies are extremely loyal and will do anything to please their people.

5

Chuskies thrive in larger homes

An apartment is not a suitable living space for a chusky. These big dogs need a lot of room to run around and therefore do best in a home with a yard. Before getting a chusky, keep the weather where you live in mind. This breed does not do well in hot weather, so if you live in a tropical climate, this is not the pet for you. In other areas, take great care in the summer. Don't take them outside during the hottest times of the day, and make sure they have plenty of shade and water.

6

The right diet for your chusky

Chuskies have a lot of energy. They're a mix of two hard-working breeds, and they like to run and play. This breed is also prone to weight gain if they are overfed, which is easy to do because they are big dogs with high energy needs. Stick to a regular feeding schedule instead of leaving food out during the day, and pay close attention to how many treats they are receiving. Ask your vet for food recommendations, and remember that dietary needs change as your dog moves from puppy to adult to senior.

7

Take good care of their mouth and ears

One of the main concerns with chuskies is their oral health, so brush their teeth every day. It is not unusual for a chusky to be born without a few teeth, which makes it even more important to take care of the ones that they have. Check their ears regularly for debris or infection. Chuskies also need their nails trimmed periodically, though this can be a daunting task for some pet owners. If you hear their nails clicking on the floor, it's time for a trim.

8

Be prepared for a lot of shedding

Take one look at a chusky and it's pretty obvious that shedding is going to be a problem, especially for people with pet allergies. These dogs have a mixture of their parents' coats, and both the chow chow and Siberian husky shed a lot, too. Daily brushing can help control the problem, and they need regular grooming. It comes in a variety of colors, including cream, red, white, and brown, and could be solid or mixed.

9

Introduce other pets early

Chuskies can get along with both cats and dogs, but some things can make the relationship more successful. Early socialization is best, so it's better to introduce the pets to the home at the same time or bring in the chusky when it's a puppy. Introduce the new animals slowly and calmly, separating them if needed. How your chusky adapts to other pets in the house comes down to socialization, training, and your chusky's personality.

10

Chuskies need to be active

Chuskies are a mix of two very active breeds and require a lot of hard physical exercise. Expect to devote a lot of time to playing and encourage plenty of outdoor activity. Chuskies need a lot of room to run around and are best suited for a home with a large, fenced-in backyard where they can spend a lot of time burning off steam. Running outside may be one of their favorite things to do, but three or four walks a day can suffice in a pinch. Off-leash dog parks are great, too, but make sure to socialize a chusky carefully with the other dogs to avoid any problems.

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