The Rottweiler Husky mix is a designer cross between the purebred Rottweiler and the Siberian Husky. Often called Rottsky for short, this crossbreed combines the best traits of both parent breeds into one powerful and playful pup.
As a relatively new mixed breed, the Rottweiler Husky mix is steadily growing in popularity thanks to its stunning good looks and affectionate nature. While dedicated breeders work hard to produce consistent traits in Rottsky litters, each individual puppy can inherit any combination of traits from their Rottweiler and Husky parents.
This article provides an in-depth look into the unique origins, appearance, temperament, and health of Rottweiler Husky mixes to help you decide if this hybrid dog is the right pet for your family.
Rottweiler Husky Mix Origins
The Rottweiler Husky mix is one of many modern “designer dogs” that have emerged from deliberate crossbreeding over the past few decades.
As a relatively new crossbreed, the exact origins of Rottsky dogs is unknown but likely began sometime within the early 2000s as breeders sought to combine favorite qualities of the Rottweiler and Siberian Husky.
Rottweiler Breed History
The Rottweiler hails from the town of Rottweil in southern Germany where they worked as cattle herding dogs beginning in the Roman Empire era. Their name derives from the word “Rottweil” which is the town where they became established as a recognized working breed.
Rotties nearly went extinct until a surge in popularity revived the breed in the 20th century. Today Rottweilers are known as loyal guard dogs and police K9s thanks to their strength, intelligence and ease of training.
Siberian Husky Breed History
Siberian Huskies are an ancient spitz-type sled dog bred by the Chukchi people of Siberia. Huskies played a vital role for Arctic tribes, pulling heavy sleds over long distances in freezing climates.
When word of the husky’s incredible stamina reached Alaska during the 1900s Gold Rush era the breed gained fame as champion sled racing dogs. The playful Siberian Husky remains a popular family pet and active companion breed today.
Rottweiler Husky Mix Appearance
Since the Rottweiler Husky mix is a first generation crossbreed, their physical appearance can vary quite a bit depending on which purebred parent they take after.
Some Rottweiler Husky mixes strongly favor one parent breed over the other, while others present an even blend of both Rottweiler and Siberian Husky physical traits.
Size, Height & Weight
The average size of a fully grown Rottsky dog is between 22 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder and 45 to 105 pounds.
Males tend to reach the heavier end of the scale while smaller females stay on the lower end of the average weight range.
Coat Color & Length
The Rottweiler Husky mix coat can display any variation of Rottweiler or Siberian Husky coat colors and patterns:
- Solid black
- Black and rust
- Black and tan
- Black and white
- Gray and white
- Red and white
- Cream
- Sable
- Agouti
Coat length also varies significantly based on which parent a Rottsky pup takes after. Their fur may be medium length like a Rottweiler, long and lush like a Husky, or somewhere in between.
Double coats with thick undercoat and longer outer guard hairs are common, which can shed heavily during seasonal blows.
Facial Features & Ears
The head shape of Rottweiler and Husky mixes can be more blocky like a Rottweiler or refined like a Husky. Eye color varies from light amber to blue and brown.
Floppy ears from the Rottweiler or upright, triangular Husky-style ears are both common among Rottsky pups.
Rottweiler Siberian Husky Mix Temperament
Since both the Rottweiler and Siberian Husky have distinct personalities, first generation Rottsky pups can display a wide range of behavioral traits. However, some general characteristics are commonly seen throughout these hybrid dogs.
Confident & Steady
The Rottweiler parent of a Rottsky imparts a calm, steady demeanor while the Siberian Husky influence brings an outgoing and enthusiastic nature to the mix.
Most Rottweiler Husky mixes present as self-assured dogs that form deep bonds with their owners. Proper obedience training and extensive socialization from a young age can nurture this hybrid’s best qualities.
Energetic & Playful
Between the Rottweiler’s working heritage and the Husky’s sled pulling ancestry, Rottweiler Husky mixes tend to be bursting with energy. Both parent breeds were built for endurance activities.
Plan on providing your Rottsky with plenty of vigorous daily exercise and active playtime. These intelligent hybrids especially thrive when given a job to do like carting, obedience training, or canine athletics.
Affectionate Family Dogs
While Rottweilers have an unfair reputation for aggression, and Siberian Huskies are known for independence – Rottweiler Husky mixes generally display wonderful traits as loving family companions.
When properly raised Rottsky dogs form close bonds with all members of the household. Their playful and gentle nature makes them a great choice for families with children.
However, Small children should always be supervised around larger dogs to prevent accidental injuries. And robust chew toys are a must for this breed’s urge to gnaw.
Training & Exercise Needs
Rottweiler Husky mixes are energetic working dogs that need plenty of training and vigorous activity to stay happy and healthy. Here are some key considerations if you’re planning to add one of these powerful hybrids to your family:
Obedience Training Is Essential
Consistent obedience training and behavioral boundaries should begin the moment you bring home a Rottweiler Husky mix puppy.
Early socialization to new people, animals, places, and experiences will ensure your Rottsky grows into a well-rounded companion.
Professional training classes are highly recommended for first-time large breed owners.
High Exercise Requirements
The high energy levels of the Siberian Husky paired with the Rottweiler’s working breed stamina makes for an extremely active crossbreed that requires lots of exercise daily.
At least 60 to 90 minutes of vigorous exercise is ideal for a Rottweiler Husky mix each day. This can include long walks, jogging, hiking, swimming, play sessions, or ideally a chance to pull carts or weight sleds.
Without adequate outlets to expend pent-up energy, this powerful hybrid is prone to destructive and hyper behaviors. A securely fenced yard is an absolute necessity.
Intelligent & Eager to Please
Thankfully, the trainability inherited from the bright Rottweiler and eager-to-please Siberian Husky means most Rottsky dogs are highly responsive to human leadership.
Positive reinforcement and reward-based training is highly effective for this affectionate hybrid that craves attention and approval from their beloved owner.
Harsh training methods should always be avoided, as the sensitive Rottsky will shut down – and can develop defensive aggression if dominated through force or fear.
Rottweiler Husky Mix Health & Lifespan
All pedigreed dogs come with an increased risk of certain breed-specific health issues. By crossing two pure breeds, some genetic health problems may be reduced through hybrid vigor – while other issues can still be passed down.
Common Health Issues
Some common health problems seen in Rottweiler Husky designer dogs include:
- Hip dysplasia – Misformed hip joints that cause arthritis and lameness
- Elbow dysplasia – Elbow joint malformation leading to lameness
- Bloat – Life-threatening stomach twisting condition
- Cataracts – Clouding over the eyes that leads to blindness
- Hypothyroidism – Underactive thyroid gland requiring medication
- Allergies – Skin problems and itchy skin conditions
Responsible Rottweiler Husky mix breeders will screen breeding stock for hereditary disorders through OFA and CERF certification to help reduce risk.
Average Lifespan
When cared for properly, the expected lifespan for a healthy Rottsky is around 10 to 14 years. Make sure to keep up with veterinary care, nutrition, exercise and annual preventatives to help your dog live a long and happy life.
Finding a Rottweiler Husky Mix Puppy
Since Rottweiler Husky mixes are a relatively new designer breed, locating reputable breeders can present challenges compared to more mainstream purebred dogs. But the effort is well worth it to find healthy, well-socialized Rottsky puppies.
Research Breeders Carefully
Responsible Rottweiler Husky mix breeders invest significant money and time into properly raising litters – reflected in often higher puppy pricing. Warning signs of unethical backyard breeders include unusually low prices or willingness to sell puppies under 8 weeks old.
Extensive health testing of parent stock, small breeding programs, puppy socialization & enrichment, and take back guarantees are hallmarks of an ethical hybrid dog breeder. Expect to pay $800 to $2,000+ for a well-bred Rottsky pup.
Shelter & Rescue Adoption
You may also come across Rottweiler Husky mix dogs and puppies available through local rescue organizations or shelters. Adopting a rescue dog can be very rewarding – though their history and medical status is often uncertain.
An adopted adult Rottsky may already come housebroken and past the destructive puppy chewing stage. Just be prepared for potential behavior challenges stemming from lack of early life nurturing.
Be Prepared Before Bringing One Home!
While Rottweiler Siberian Husky designer dogs make wonderful family pets, they require extensive daily exercise along with training reinforcement to channel their high energy and powerful instincts appropriately.
These robust pups also need special supervision around small children given their large size. And bored Rottskys are quick to find trouble!
But for active households prepared to properly socialize, train and exercise this breed from the start – you’ll discover a faithful best friend in your bright and affectionate Rottweiler Husky mix dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about Rottweiler Husky mixes:
Are Rottweiler Husky mixes aggressive?
While both Rottweiler and Husky parent breeds may carry unwarranted reputations for aggression – with thorough obedience training and socialization from puppyhood, Rottweiler Husky mixes generally make docile and loving family companions. Their affectionate people-pleasing nature helps counteract any defensive guarding instincts.
How much exercise does a Husky Rottweiler mix need?
High energy levels are a defining characteristic of most Rottweiler Husky mixes thanks to their working breed ancestry. Be prepared to spend at least 60 to 90 minutes per day physically and mentally stimulating this active hybrid dog. If exercise needs aren’t met, destructive or hyperactive behavior is likely.
Are Rottweiler and Husky mixes good family dogs?
When properly exercised, trained, and socialized – Rottweilers and Huskies are both known to do very well with children and thrive as family pets. Devotion to their human pack along with playfulness and patience extends to most Rottweiler Husky mixed puppies as well. Gentle supervision is still required due to their large size.
What is a female Rottweiler Husky mix called?
There are no distinct names for male or female Rottweiler Husky designer dogs. They are commonly referred to as Rottsky crosses or mixes – sometimes substituting the order to Husky Rott crosses. Owners often create their own fun nicknames for this loveable mixed breed!
The Unique Rottsky: An Affectionate & Capable Hybrid Companion
For active individuals and families able to properly exercise, train and channel their energy – few crossbreeds can compete with the unwavering loyalty and versatility of the powerful yet silly Rottweiler Husky mix.
While finding well-bred Rottsky puppies presents some challenges, dedicated research can reward prospective owners with the perfect pint-sized furry addition to complete their home.
If you’ve fallen for the Rottweiler Husky mix charms, use this full guide to set your expectations and prepare properly before welcoming one of these special pups into your heart and home. The effort will be returned exponentially in love and devotion from your energetic new BFF!
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