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.

Sookie is an adorable, sweet, utterly gorgeous young girl. At 10 months old, Sookie is still a puppy, with plenty of energy and stamina! Sookie arrived skinny, recovering from kennel cough, and not feeling very good. After lots of TLC, including plenty of nutritious meals, Sookie is now feeling all better, and ready to find her forever home!

Sookie is an affectionate girl who likes to be very close to her humans. She loves her walks, and is improving every day on her leash manners. She is great around people, does fine around kids, although she might knock younger ones over when excited. She is adorably enthusiastic. She loves food and treats, cuddling, going for car rides. Sookie is super fun and engaging. She is still all puppy, and every once in a while, she will zoom around the house and yard in excitement. We would prefer a 6ft fence for Sookie, and like all of our dogs, she needs good supervision when outside in the yard.

Sookie rides very well in the car and loves to go places with her humans. Sookie does not seem to have had a lot of exposure to the outside world, prior to coming into rescue. She can be a little uneasy and cautious around new experiences (ex: when she had to learn to do stairs, walk on tile, unload from the car after a ride), but she is eager to overcome obstacles, and adjusts well.  Sookie would do well as an only dog, basking in her owner's undivided love and attention. She would also do fine with a friendly, tolerant dog that doesn't mind Sookie's hands on, in-your-face, enthusiastic playstyle. Sookie can get a little possessive of her toys and treats around other dogs, so she needs good supervision and reminders when those are involved. Sookie absolutely loves water, whether it's splashing around in the doggy pool, or playing with the hose or sprinkler water.

Sookie is a very lovable, playful, active girl. Like all German Shepherd Dogs, Sookie 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.