Mixed-breed dogs are becoming increasingly popular in the pet world. People just love getting “the best of both worlds” when it comes to crossbreed dogs, and it’s a key reason why Poodle mixes are becoming so popular. But while “doodles” are taking center stage, there’s a lesser-known mix that deserves equal attention.
Chow/Husky mixes, known as Chuskies, offer a delightful companion for seasoned dog owners. They offer the mischief of a Husky with the watchfulness of a Chow, resulting in a loyal, adaptable dog. So, should you get one?
1. Chuskies Are Chow/Husky Hybrids
To truly understand Chuskies, it’s vital to understand their breed parentage. Let’s start with the Chow Chow. Known for being dignified, bright, and serious-minded, these dogs weigh anywhere from 45 to 70 pounds. The American Kennel Club (AKC) describes them as China’s “all-purpose dog” and explains that per the breed standard, they generally stand 17 to 20 inches at the shoulder.
Chow Chows are not recommended for first-time dog owners. As a cat-like breed, these dogs are aloof and independent, generally bonding strongly to one person in the household. While affectionate with loved ones and a solid choice for young children, Chow Chows are sometimes unpredictable with unfamiliar dogs. Bringing a Chow to the dog park is risky and can result in reactivity.
Now, on to the Husky. Huskies are loyal, outgoing, and mischievous – and they’re not afraid to voice their opinions through howling, whining, and barking. They’re around the same size as Chows, weighing 45 to 60 pounds and standing at least 20 inches at the shoulder. Huskies are a popular family dog for many reasons. They thrive in the company of other dogs, they’re good with young children, and they’re affectionate with everyone.
Huskies can thrive with first-time dog owners who are committed to socializing their pets and understand the value of consistent training. If you’re planning to purchase or adopt a Husky, know these dogs are notorious escape artists. Despite their thick coats, they can squeeze through surprisingly small spaces in pursuit of other dogs, squirrels, or adventure. Needless to say, you’ll need a well-secured yard to contain your Husky!
2. Chuskies Can Vary in Appearance
Because they are mixed-breed dogs (and there isn’t an established Chusky breed standard), Chuskies can vary in appearance from one to the next. Generally, these dogs weigh less than 60 pounds and have a barrel-shaped body. They seldom measure more than 20 inches at the shoulder, so while they’re not lapdogs, they’re on the medium-dog/large-dog border.
Together, Chows and Huskies come in 14 colors, from agouti to black and tan. So, Chuskies can come in any of these colors in various patterns. Some Chuskies may have white “masks” on their faces, others may have different-colored patches on their bodies. Many Chuskies inherit the Chow’s cream-colored coat. They may also have the Chow’s trademark blue-purple tongue.
Chuskies have pointed ears, although they may fold slightly at the tips. They generally have dark-colored eyes, but some may also have heterochromia (different-colored eyes) because of their Husky parentage.
3. Chuskies Are Protective, Mischievous, and Affectionate
Combining the watchful Chow Chow with the mischievous Husky yields a protective, affectionate companion known for being fairly adaptable. While a Chusky may enjoy lounging on the couch for most of the day, they also have remarkable endurance on long walks and hikes. The Chusky has moderate exercise needs, requiring about an hour of exercise a day to avoid problem behaviors, such as excessive barking and escape attempts.
Like the Chow Chow (and in contrast to the Husky), Chuskies can be unpredictable around other dogs, particularly small dogs. Far too often, these dogs give into their prey drive and see small dogs as targets, not friends. For that reason, Chuskies do best in single-dog households.
Chuskies need socialization from an early age to mature into well-tempered adults. Socialization doesn’t mean a crash course in meeting other dogs and people. It means easing your dog into unfamiliar situations and building their confidence. For example, you may start bringing your dog leashed to public parks where they can interact with others in a controlled setting. Then, you may advance to visiting fenced, off-leash dog parks and introducing your pet to strangers.
4. Chuskies Have Fairly Low Grooming Needs
There’s a trade-off to having a teddy bear-like dog: while they’re great for snuggling, they’re also massive shedders. Upon adopting a Chusky, say good-bye to wearing black and hello to vacuuming every day.
Chuskies blow coat twice a year: once when fall turns to winter, and again when winter turns into spring. To avoid living in a hairball, brush your Chusky’s coat daily with a combination of slicker brushes, undercoat rakes, and pin brushes. These will maintain your dog’s topcoat and undercoat. Chuskies’ coats generally don’t get very dirty; however, they can smell after periods of intense exercise. As a good rule of thumb, bathe your dog once a season. Don’t overdo it, as this can strip your dog’s coat of its natural oils.
Chuskies also need their nails trimmed once every three weeks to avoid breakage and promote traction while walking. Like many dogs, Chuskies don’t take kindly to having their nails clipped. You can make this task easier by relying on positive reinforcement, such as feeding your dog peanut butter throughout the nail clipping-process. You can also elect to have a professional groomer do it for you.
5. Chuskies Need Patience on a Leash
Chuskies love to explore. They can spend literal hours sniffing fire hydrants and tracking down rabbits. However, this love of adventure can make Chuskies challenging to walk on a leash. They may pull, veer off the path, and attempt to back out of their collars to get loose.
Dominance theory (which would involve punishing your dog when they act out) doesn’t work. Training your dog to walk well on a leash involves setting consistent boundaries and having a rewards system in place. You may benefit from working with an experienced dog trainer who can offer the resources you need to help your Chusky walk on a leash without struggling.
6. Chuskies Can Be Found at Dog Rescues
There isn’t a huge demand for Chow/Husky mixes. And, unlike many mixed-breed dogs, there aren’t many kennel clubs that focus on breeding Chuskies. So, you probably won’t find a breeder who specializes in Chuskies. However, there’s still hope! You could find one of these cuties biding time at your local rescue organization or dog shelter.
To find a Chusky, start your search at a nearby rescue that focuses on adopting Chow Chows and Huskies. Some of these organizations save mixed-breed dogs, including Chuskies! You could also search on PetFinder, Craigslist, and even Reddit. When it comes to finding the dog of your dreams, if there’s a will, there’s a way!
