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.

Knight is a friendly, lovable approx 2.5 year old, black German Shepherd boy, who was initially being neglected, then was eventually abandoned on someone's property in MO. The neighbors kept this sweet boy alive by feeding him over the fence, until the authorities were able to seize him and take him to the local shelter while he awaited rescue. Knight came to us half-starved and Heartworm Positive. 

Knight is a very sweet boy, with some special medical needs. He has completed his heartworm treatment. He needs to continue on Heartworm preventative year round, will need a microfilarea test 2-20-17, and a follow-up heartworm test in 4-20-17. Knight is a sensitive boy prone to GI upset due to stress, but also with some food sensitivities, so he does better on a limited ingredient diet regardless (he has been eating and doing well on GO salmon). Additionally, shortly after arrival on 9-11-16, he had a very mild seizure. Exam and bloodwork revealed nothing remarkable. He had a second seizure, also very mild, 1-14-17 (it seem to be brought on by stress). No medications or other treatment is recommended at this time (not unless seizures were to become a lot more frequent or severe). Both times he had seizures, Knight remained standing, simply appeared a little disoriented and his leg movements as he tried to walk were just a little jerky and uncoordinated. Both seizures passed quickly and he went back to normal within a minute or so.

Handsome dark Knight loves to give kisses! He is a quick learner and loves to please. Like many German Shepherds, Knight loves having a routine and falls into routine quickly. As much as he loves humans of all sizes, he adores his fur friends, and is always trying to play with them. He gets along very well with his foster brother and sisters. He enjoys grabbing his toys and flipping them in the air and then hopping around after them. He is more often the strong silent type.