Recent years have seen a rise in the demand for mixed-breed dogs, and as a result, Pitsky emerged. Pitsky came into mainstream existence in the 1990s by crossing the American Pit Bull Terrier and the Siberian Husky. Pitskies are incredibly affectionate and loyal dogs and have the combined energy level of both the parent breeds.
Pitskies are medium-sized dogs who sport a unique look between the parent breeds’ aggressiveness and cuteness. The number of Pitskies has been increasing lately, thanks to breeders’ fascination with this smart and spirited breed. Pitsky is not recognized as an official breed by the American Kennel Club but is recognized by The Dog Registry of America.
Pitsky History
Pitsky’s parent breeds have many extensive histories. The American Pit Bull Terrier was first recognized in the late 1800s, while the Siberian Husky can be traced back to thousands of years. Both the breeds are known for their athletic as well as companionship qualities. However, they tend to have several genetic health issues.
It is believed that Pitskies must have existed naturally for many years. However, in the early 1990s, breeders intentionally mixed the American Pit Bull Terrier with Siberian Husky. This cross was formed to overcome the health issues of both the parent breeds. However, Pitsky’s unique characteristics made them gain popularity as a designer and support dogs.
Pitsky Characteristics
Breeders are still developing Pitskies are companion dogs. Resultingly, each year sees characteristic changes in the breed. Pitskies are medium-sized dogs with an energetic and bold personality. They generally have single or double coats that come in various colors such as white, black, red, fawn, grey, and brindle.
How Big do Pitsky Get
Pitskies are first-generation mix dogs, which means that both their parent breeds are purebreds. Therefore, the size they attain is unpredictable. There Is no saying how big a Pitsky puppy might grow up to be. However, their average height generally ranges between 16 and 25 inches. The average weight of Pitskies varies between 30 and 80 pounds.
How Long do Pitsky Live
As mentioned earlier, Pitskies were bred to overcome the health issues pertinent in their parent breeds. Resultingly, they are relatively healthy dogs who can live up to 15 years if taken care of well. The minimum life expectancy of a Pitsky is 12 years.
How Much does a Pitsky Cost
Adopting a Pitsky will not cost you too much because the American Kennel Club does not recognize the breed. Depending on the breeder’s quality and reputation, you can adopt a Pitsky for anything between $300 and $1500. Since Pitskies are particularly new and are known as designer dogs, their basic vet procedures will cost you anything between $500 and $600 per annum.
Pitsky Temperament/ Personality
The American Pit Bull Terrier and the Siberian Husky are known for their loyalty and playfulness. Both the breeds tend to be aggressive as well. However, Pitsky took all the good qualities from his parents have left the aggression to dust. Pitskies tend to be patient. Therefore, they become good therapy and support dogs.
Pitskies are known for their friendly and even-tempered personalities. Due to their parentage, they are excellent for a family with children as they prove to be the perfect balance between a play dog and a guard dog. However, it is best not to leave your toddlers alone with a Pitsky since they can accidentally knock down your children in excitement.
Pitskies tend to get over-attached. Therefore, early training is required to save them from developing separation anxiety. Even though Siberian Huskies love hunting, that is not a problem with Pitskies. They are generally cat-friendly and will become friends with other pets in the house due to their playfulness.
They can be aggressive towards other dogs, but that’s nothing early training and socializing will not mend. As they grow older, Pitskies tend to become the ‘pack leader’ of the other pets you might have in your house. It is best to use positive reinforcement to teach a Pitsky the difference between play and roughing up.
Caring for Pitsky
Caring for Pitskies can be a little tricky owing to their growth unpredictability. However, there are a few things that are genetically similar between almost all Pitskies. We have discussed all those things below.
Pitsky Nutrition
The amount of nutrition that a Pitsky requires varies according to their size and weight. Pitskies are high-energy medium-sized dogs. Therefore, they need feeding twice a day and require a balanced diet rich in protein. It is best to avoid fatty foods and carbohydrates since they can negatively influence a Pitsky’s weight and health.
How to Groom a Pitsky
Whether a Pitsky has adapted a coat similar to that of Huskies or American Pit Bull Terriers influences their grooming requirements. Pitskies do not shed a lot. Therefore, with daily brushing and monthly baths, they are good to go. It is necessary to frequently clip their nails and clean their ears and teeth every two weeks.
Pitsky Activity Levels
Pitskies are packed with energy and require an outlet for all their accumulated energy. They require at least an hour’s walk twice a day along with physically and mentally stimulating activities such as obedience, fetch, and agility. Pitskies love to go on hikes and travel to places that do not require them to sit down for long periods.
Caring for Pitsky
Pitskies are not ideal for laidback owners since they require a lot of care. Since Pitskies are relatively new, detecting their health issues can be difficult. Therefore, they need frequent visits to a vet. Along with the following general canine care routines, it is crucial to keep their weight in check. Overweight Pitskies tend to get lethargic and aggressive.
Pitsky Health
Due to greater genetic variation, Pitskies tend to be healthier than both their parent breeds. They are less susceptible to inherited genetic disorders and are generally pretty healthy. However, obesity is the digest problem that can be seen in Pitskies.
Pitskies tend to gain weight quickly if they do not receive adequate exercise. Pitskies are also likely to inherit hyperthyroidism from their parents, which causes the pooches to rapidly gain weight due to hormonal imbalance.
Much like Huskies and any other active dogs, Pitskies are known to develop Hip Dysplasia as they grow old. Due to the abnormal growth of the hip joint, Pitskies can face general discomfort and lameness.
Breeds Similar to Pitsky
Best Dog Food For Pitskies
To meet the nutritional requirement, dogs require real meat, grain, vegetables, fruits, etc., and considering all these; we think the best dog food for Pitsky would be Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Healthy Weight Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food. This chicken recipe is instrumental for healthy weight gain. The L-carnitine included in the food strengthens the muscles.
- The food has a generous amount of chondroitin, which is great for bone health.
- Vitamins and antioxidant complex make the food great for immunity development.
- This organic diet comprises flaxseed, which is fatty acid rich.
Best Puppy Food For Pitskies
The super cute Pitsky puppies are picky eaters, and they often suffer from multiple stomach issues in their early days after birth, which is why we think the best puppy food for Pitskies would be Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Healthy Development Small Bites Dry Dog Food. Apart from chicken meal, this quality diet also combines a chicken fat, beet pulp, fish oil, etc. This protein-rich meal is also packed with numerous vitamin supplements.
- Calcium iodate is good for healthy bones and good teeth.
- Vitamin E and C helps in a healthy immune system.
- Ideal for little puppies, the food combines natural DHA.
Best Dog Bed For Pitskies
Prioritize your Pitsky’s sleep and comfort with a top-quality bed, and the best dog bed for Pitskies is FurHaven Ultra Plush Luxe Lounger Orthopedic Cat & Dog Bed w/Removable Cover. The bed has in-built bolsters in two of its sides and is available in cream, gray, and chocolate color. This therapeutic bed combines a plush surface, which makes it effective for comfortable sleep.
- The dog bed’s design makes it perfect for puppies, sick, and senior dogs can jump on it.
- This medical-grade bed supports the neck and back of the dog while sleeping.
- This rectangular bed is actually an orthopedic foam mattress.
Best Dog Crate For Pitskies
The best dog crate for Pitskies is Frisco Heavy Duty Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate as it accommodates dogs of any size and breed due to its wide range of size varieties. This elegant and sturdy crate can be used for training classes and locking the dogs when necessary. The large door and the dual latch system make the crate convenient to use and pretty secure as well.
- It doesn’t take much longer to assemble the crate.
- This durable crate can be folded down to a flat object.
- This rust-resistant crate doesn’t fade easily as it has an extra layer of E-coat all over it.
Best Dog Harness For Pitskies
Those who are about to shop their first dog harness, to them it suggested to pick from best selling ones, and in our opinion, the best dog harness for Pitskies is OneTigris Tactical Vest Nylon Front Clip Dog Harness. The harness is apposite for any dog weighing up to 90 pounds. This water-resistant harness has additional padding here and there in the interior part of it for superior comfort.
- This multi-purpose harness ensures a comfortable fit with its adjustable straps.
- This lightweight dog harness features a MOLLE webbing.
- This versatile harness also features a nylon wrapping from everywhere.
Best Dog Collar For Pitskies
According to our team of dog experts, the best dog collar for Pitskies is GoTags Personalized Reflective Nylon Dog Collar. This sophisticated personalized collar allows the customers to write their sweetheart Pitsky’s name with 14 thread colors. Not only this, there are five color options to choose from, and Gotags allows the owners to write 25 characters regarding the whereabouts or contact number.
- This convenient dog collar ensures hassle-free cleaning.
- One can hang the ID and tags from its non-corrosive D ring.
- This machine-washable collar has a maximum width of 1 inch.
Best Dog Muzzle For Pitskies
A dog muzzle helps Pitsky deal with stressful social situations and bid goodbye to the chewing habits, and we think the best dog muzzle for Pitskies is Coastal Pet Products Best Fit Adjustable Comfort Dog Muzzle. This classic black muzzle includes a flexible nose pad for ultimate comfort. This front-open muzzle doesn’t restrict yawning, eating, drinking, or, most importantly, breathing.
- This muzzle model arrives with four size choices covering up to 13 inches of snout circumference.
- The muzzle top doesn’t cover the eyes at all.
- This durable and lightweight dog muzzle prevents the unnecessary biting of little puppies.
Best Dog Toys For Pitskies
A dog toy is more than just a playing instrument, it stimulates the dog mentally as well as physically, and the best dog toy for Pitskies is KONG Squeezz Ball Dog Toy. This rolling toy is available in red, green, blue, etc., and there is a noisy squeaker installed in it. This bouncing ball is proportional to the dog’s size.
- The ball is made of tough and solid plastic material.
- Dogs can play with this rolling ball outdoor also.
- Due to its perfect round shape, this lightweight ball floats in water.
Best Dog Brush For Pitskies
The best dog brush for Pitskies is Hartz Groomer’s Best Slicker Dog Brush as it can be applied on any type of coat. This fundamental grooming kit significantly reduces shedding in dogs and is ideal for detangling. This fine slicker brush removes the undercoat loose hair like a magnet.
- This purple brush has some pin coats for the dog’s safety.
- This professional deshedding brush has a long ergonomic handle.
- This gentle brush is also instrumental in fur growth.
Best Dog Shampoo For Pitskies
The best dog shampoo for Pitskies is TropiClean Luxury 2 in 1 Papaya & Coconut Pet Shampoo, and Conditioner as this is 100% organic, and it deeply conditions the rough canine skin. This shampoo and conditioner should be applied to wet skin for the best result. This soap, alcohol, and paraben-free shampoo contains kiwi, papaya, and other natural ingredients that are good for the skin.
- This coconut and mango based shampoo add extra volume to the coat.
- The essential oil soothes the irritated skin and allows other dermatological treatments simultaneously.
- Routinely grooming with this shampoo also checks tangle formation.
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