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.

Lizbeth is an adorable approx 6 month-old pup 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. Lizbeth is a very lucky girl to have made it into rescue, and we are very glad that we were able to help her!

Lizbeth is a gentle, docile girl, who is a little shy, but warms up quickly.  When she first arrived into rescue, Lizbeth was very scared and timid. Lizbeth is doing very well adjusting to life in her foster home. She grows more confident and playful every day, as she becomes more  comfortable with her surroundings. She is a very loyal and loving girl who likes to follow foster mom closely all over the house. She likes chewing on bones and other chewies. Although she required slow introductions with other dogs when she first arrived in her foster home, she now does just fine with new dogs that she meets. Lizbeth is gorgeous, sweet and very well-behaved at events.

Now that Lizbeth is getting comfortable and settling down in her foster home, her personality is coming ou. We are finding out that is delightfully playful and mischievous! She is clever, sweet, and she prances more than runs. Lizbeth is very responsive to verbal cues, and loves to please.