Pitbull Husky mix dogs are a cross between the loyal Pitbull and active Siberian Husky. The Pitbull Husky mixes are affectionate, medium sized dogs, weighing 35- 65 pounds when adults. By the way, what is the lifespan of a Pitbull Husky mix? Well, find out that information by reading the text below.
What is the Lifespan of a Pitbull Husky Mix?
The Pitbull Husky is a healthy mixed breed dog that lives a relatively long life. The lifespan of a Pitbull Husky is between 12 and 15 years, which is on par with the American Pit Bull Terrier, Siberian Husky and Alaskan Husky.
But, despite their long lifespan, Pitbull Husky mix dogs also have a handful of health concerns. Some of their health problems are inherited from their parent breeds, while other Pitbull Husky mix dogs are brought about by environmental factors.
What Determines a Pitbull Husky Mix’s Lifespan?
There are many factors that affect how long a Pitbull Husky Mix will live. Proper diet, innate characteristics of the Pitbull Husky Mix, and even spaying/neutering a Pitbull Husky Mix can affect its overall lifespan.
Based on the research, it has shown that the breed of a dog results in different lifespan. Generally, larger dogs will live a much shorter life compared to smaller dogs. For instance, the average lifespan of a Great Dane is 7 years, while a Chihuahua is 17 years. To get a more accurate result of how long your dog is expected to live, you have to determine its breed first. Please be sure to get a dog DNA test kit to help you with that.
Pitbull Husky Health Problems
A Pitbull Husky mix dog is a generally healthy dog if the owners maintain a good diet and regular exercise routine. But, all dogs are prone to conditions and diseases which may stem from old age or their parent breeds’ medical history. The owners of the Pitbull Husky mix should be aware of both of the parents’ past illnesses on record to assist them anticipate treatment and cost.
Of course, knowing an ailment before it shows its symptoms will be complicated. But like most dogs, Pitbull Husky mixes have a specific set of health problems that apply to them.
Here are some of the health problems a Pitbull Husky can suffer from:
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism can occur to any dog breed. Despite being a rare situation, hyperthyroidism can be really hard to deal with when the Pitbull Husky suffers from it. This hybrid dog’s metabolic hyperactivity is the result of too much thyroid hormone from its glands. If not treated properly, then the Pitbull Husky mix dog may suffer heart and kidney failure.
Eye Problems
Congenital eye problems can range from irritating to life-threatening, which is why it is crucial for the owners to have knowledge on the medical history of the Husky Pitbull mix’s parent breeds. Eye problems include pink eye, cataracts, corneal wounds, entropion, dry eye, and cherry eye, among others. Also, these health problems may come from accidents or trauma, which is why the owners should always keep the Pitbull Husky mix dog under constant supervision.
Heart Disease
Heart diseases are another inherent issue for the Pitbull Husky because both of its parent breeds are prone to contracting one upon reaching old age. This hybrid dog’s heart disease occurs when the heart encounters difficulty distributing blood to its body. Usually, improper diet and exercise will be able to contribute to the development of heart diseases for the Pitbull Husky mix.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a common condition among dog breeds. This health issue happens when the ball and socket joint of the hip is in an unusual position, making the ball rubbing and grinding instead of sliding smoothly along the socket. Hip dysplasia happens mostly during old age and will be able to lead to paralysis if left unchecked. The owners have to keep the Pitbull Husky on constant supervision to know if it is starting to walk awkwardly on its hind legs, which is the usual symptom for hip dysplasia.
Allergy
Dog allergies are able to cause the Pitbull Husky mix to scratch its skin violently, leading to loss of hair and wounds. This itchy feeling can result from the hybrid dog’s allergic reaction to shampoo, cigarette smoke, food, dust, and fleas.
Bone Cancer
Need to know that Osteosarcoma is a type of bone cancer which is common in Pitbull Husky mixes. This condition will affect the growth of bones and nearby body parts. If this condition worsens, it will need amputation.
Bloat
Bloat, also known as Gastric dilation-volvulus, is a common life-threatening condition in most dogs. This issue results from the sudden build-up of stomach pressure caused by overeating or eating too fast. Based on the research, this health problem can kill a Pitbull Husky in a matter of hours.
Pitbull Husky Mix Food/Diet
The Pitbull Husky mixes need to eat a lot and eat well. These dogs do best on high-quality dry food for dogs, however it should be chosen to fit their needs. Need to note that puppies, adults, and senior dogs all have different dietary requirements. So, as your dog’s age, it is always wise to select their food accordingly.
But, although these Pitbull Husky mix dogs need a lot of food due to their size, it does not mean you have to overfeed them. Pitbull Husky dogs can become obese if they are let to free feed. You are able to give your dog 2.5 to 3 cups of dog food. Please split their daily dose of food into two separate meals to prevent bloating.
If you have any concerns about establishing your dog’s diet, you are able to consult with a veterinarian. Of course, pet food manufacturers and pet blogs tend to give useful feeding guides. All dogs are different and only your veterinarian is qualified to determine the specific dietary needs of your personal dog. Thus, always defer to the good doctor before determining what to put into your dog’s belly.
