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.

Meet Lana!
This sweet girl arrived to us just a few days before Christmas. With all the activity around the holidays, she found comfort & trust with foster dad. He quickly became her person attached to him like glue, with her tail tucked in between her legs. However, within days the tail was out & wagging! Then she started playing with some toys. Then the snow came! And this girl loves the snow! She rolled and rolled and rolled. Ran from one end of the backyard to the other. So was so happy. Lana’s not a barker / talker, however she is unsure of new dogs. She also has been around children ages 5 and 9. She loved their attention, but became nervous if they cried.
Here’s some of Lana qualities:
• Good-natured around kids
• Fully potty trained
• Great traveler, except was not too fawned of the car wash!
• Very gentle when taking food or treats
• Pulls just a little when walking, but when you tell her heel, she does.
• She easily follows basic comments, sit, shake, no and stay (is getting better every day)
• She likes toys, but works real hard to get that darn squeaker out.
If you are looking for a laid back sweet girl, it’s Lana. Loves to go for car rides, cuddle and naps!"

Like all German Shepherd Dogs, Australian Cattle Dogs, and other herding breed mixes that we have in rescue, Lana 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.