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.

Neptune is a handsome and spunky, approx 3.5 month-old puppy. Neptune's mom, Juno and her 7 pups, were found this summer on a SD reservation, hungry, thirsty, emaciated, and crusty with mange. 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 Neptune and his family! They are now all fully recovered and looking for their forever homes!

Neptune is one of 7 puppies from the Juno (aka the Roman Gods) litter. Neptune is sweet, playful and very active.  Neptune can be a bit reactive in new situations and places, and needs slow introductions to new dogs.  Neptune will need an experienced, gentle, confident owner, who will continue to provide him with plenty of activity, exercise, outings, and positive social experiences so that his social skills can continue to develop and flourish.

Neptune is crate-trained and doing very well on his potty-training. Neptune could benefit from having a doggy playmate and we strongly encourage his new family to enroll him in puppy classes and to continue exposing him to plenty of different positive situations, where he can continue to learn good manners and gain confidence 

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