German Shepherd dogs, as well as the other herding breeds that we have in rescue, are highly active, energetic, working breeds. They require considerable vetting, exercise, socialization, training, leadership and mental stimuli in order to be well-adjusted, well-balanced, and well-mannered dogs. Even if you exercise and play with your dog daily in your fenced yard, you MUST still take your dog out on daily walks and outings in order to work on his/her leash skills, manners, and social skills. These breeds make great additions to active families who will pamper them, but who will also work with them, as they are smart dogs who need leadership, structure, plenty of activity and mental stimulation. 

If you are new to German Shepherds (and other herding breeds), please research the breed to make sure this is the dog for you. We ask that you consider the time and financial commitment that your German Shepherd (or other herding breed) dog will require before applying for one. Please review the section on our website (www.heartlandgsrescue.org) "Is a HUGS Dog Right for You?" for additional information.

Chandler is a very handsome, approx 11 month-old boy whom we rescued from a reservation in SD. Reservation dogs lead a very hard life, with no shelter, little food, and no vet care. Many of them die young due to accidents, deprivation, and/or sickness among other causes. We are so glad that we were able to help Chandler! 

Chandler is an active puppy with lots of energy. He loves to play with dogs, big and small, and he is good with cats. He loves going to doggy daycare! Chandler would enjoy having have a playful dog buddy in his new home. Chandler loves to play with stuffed animals and balls. Chandler is a love bug of a puppy who adores his dog bed, playing, cuddling, and having his tummy rubbed. 

Chandler is crate-trained. He is very smart and has already learned several commands. He is working on potty-training and is doing well, but he will need his adopter to continue working on that. He will also need for his new family to continue providing gentle socialization and positive new experiences. Chandler is still learning about this brand new world around him, and is blossoming and coming out of his shell more and more every day, as he becomes more confident. He is food-motivated. He will do best with an active family who can provide confident, loving leadership, and who will continue to work on his socialization. While he is fine around the kids in his foster home, Chandler would do better in a home with no kids or older kids. He seems to have had some bad experiences with young kids in the past, and appears to be more comfortable around adults and older kids that are considerate and respectful of his space. Chandler is a delightful pup who will make an excellent family pet for an active, moderately experienced owner.

Like all German Shepherd and German Shepherd mix puppies, Chandler will need training, consistency, boundaries, and lots of activity and socialization, in order to become a well-balanced, well-behaved dog.