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.

Zibby is an adorable, 7 month-old girl puppy. Zibby's mom, Jasmine, was found this summer on a SD reservation, hungry, thirsty, overheated, full of ticks and fleas, and heavily pregnant. Like many others, Jasmine lived as a stray on the reservation, right up until rescue. 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 rescue Jasmine, so that her puppies could be safely born in rescue, and so that they could all have better lives. 

Zibby is such a happy, playful little girl! She will entertain herself with bones and chew toys,and loves running after balls in the backyard. She will return the ball most of the time! Zibby loves to go on long walks and is very curious about the sights, sounds, and smells. Zibby is great with people. She can be a little reactive on a leash but does wonderful with dogs of all sizes with introductions. She is respectful with the older dog in her foster home, and she is good with the kitties as well.

Zibby knows basic commands like sit, lay down, off, come. She is crate trained, and does well at night in her dog bed in her foster parents room. Zibby is still a puppy, and her new family with need to continue working with her on her leash walking and on not jumping up when she gets excited. She has already improved so much! Walks with Zibby are fun and actually relaxing :)

This is what Zibby's foster mom has to say about Zibby: "Zibby loves mothering her fur-friends! If you think adopting a puppy/dog and you have resident cats is impossible, think again!!! With some patience, teaching mutual respect, Zibby could be bathing your kitties and keeping guard as they cat nap! Zibby is 7 months old, the SWEETEST pup ever. Fully potty trained and crate trained. Great with people, other dogs, and cats. She is a wonderful girl that will make a great addition to a very lucky family"

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