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.

Conrad is a super playful youngster, full of energy and enthusiasm, and very sweet and loving with his people. Conrad is a little over 1 y.o. When he came to us, he was alarmingly thin: skin and bones, really. But with good care and nutritious meals, he has bulked up nicely, and he looks healthy shinny, and he is one happy pup!

Conrad is a super cute, smaller-sized GSD. He is a little shy and hesitant with visitors at home, at first, but warms up reasonably quickly with proper introductions :). He has lots of energy and loves to go for long walks. He is a huge lover who adores to get petted and cuddled. He loves his crate and goes in willingly when the door is open, although, like many GSDs, he has a little separation anxiety when his humans are gone. Conrad is a velcro pup who loves to follow his humans everywhere. He's a smart pup, loyal, attentive, eager to please and learn new commands.

In addition to walks, Conrad also enjoys running around the yard, chasing, play-wrestling, and sharing toys with the other household dog. He loves to sift through the doggy toybox. He absolutely adores the doggy pool.  He loves to jump up in the air to catch a flying frisbee! And he LOOOOVES his Jolly Ball! He loves to fetch it, and he just wants to carry it everywhere! Conrad can be a little reactive (barks) in new situations and with new dogs/people, however, he does well with both, he just needs slow introductions :). And we can never say this enough... Many German Shepherds are NOT fans of being approached and petted by strangers. They often require a certain level of familiarity and trust before they will feel comfortable with that type of interaction. This is especially true of adorable little Conrad ;). Conrad could benefit from a confident handler who will continue to gently socialize him in public while making sure strangers respect his space (which will help him feel safe and will allow him to relax); and provide fun, positive experiences to help him continue to gain confidence.

Conrad is great with other dogs, and enjoys playing with them, and he really loves is cuddling in bed or on the couch with his humans. He just wants all the love he can get, and he is not shy about nuzzling you to ask for more!

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

Reminder: Even if you exercise and play with your dog daily in your fenced yard, please remember that, 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.