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.

Finn is an intensely loyal, gentle, and happy, 2.5 year-old boy. Sweet Finn found himself in need of rescue, due to the youngest kid in his previous home, being severely allergic to dogs. We are very glad that we were able to keep Finn out of the shelter. Finn is a very sweet, handsome, lovable boy, and we cannot wait for him to finally have his happily-ever-after!

Finn gets along with other dogs and has been best friends with the Lab in his foster home, since he arrived. He plays gently with other dogs and is submissive. Finn is very eager to please his humans, and is quick to follow commands. He is crate-trained, house-trained, and he is pretty good about only chewing on his toys. Finn can be a little nervous during introductions, but he is incredibly friendly once he accepts you. He will fit in best with a family that has time to walk him at least once per day, as he still has some of his puppy energy. Once he has had his walk, Finn is content to spend the rest of the day snuggling with his humans. Finn's tail had to be docked due to some sort of injury prior to rescue. If anything, we think the nubby tail makes Finn even more endearing, as it wags side to side when he's happy or excited :).

While Finn is a super sweet boy, he 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 true of sweet Finn as well ;). Finn 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. Finn is a real sweetheart, and an amazing dog who will be a great addition to a very lucky family!

Like all German Shepherd dogs and puppies, Finn 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.