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.

Ella is a very sweet young girl who loves attention, affection, and cuddles.  Ella is just 1 year old. She has lots of energy, and will need plenty of long walks and playtime in order to feel her best. She enjoys camping, swimming, and being on the go! Ella gets along with other dogs and loves people. If she isn’t directly by your side, you can find her playing with her favorite tug of war rope. If you aren’t mesmerized by her sky blue eyes, you will be by her charming personality. Ella can get a little excited and vocal at times (ex: when coming out of the crate, or when out in public) but we expect that with practice, she will continue to improve. Ella is super smart and learns extremely fast.

Ella is a fabulous puppy who will thrive with an active adopter who will provide daily walks in addition to backyard playtime, outings for socialization, and the usual training (positive reinforcement training) that puppies and youngsters require. 

Ella's adoption fee is $350, all of which goes back into offseting our high-cost vetting expenses and rescuing more dogs.  We are a 100% volunteer-run rescue group and rely on adoption fees and donations to continue saving lives. Adoption fees include spay/neuter, current on age-appropriate vaccinations, fecal, deworming, flea/tick and heartworm preventative, heartworm tested if old enough (and treated if positive), and microchipped. Please visit http://heartlandgsrescue.rescuegroups.org/info/adoption for more information about our adoption process and requirements, and to apply.  

Like all Aussies, German Shepherds, and other herding breeds and mixes that we have in rescue, Ella will need training consistency, boundaries, and plenty of activity and socialization. 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 leash skills, manners, and social skills. Our 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. Because of that, we would like for Ella's adopter to have some prior herding breed experience (ex: Aussie, Heeler, GSD, Border Collie, or other herding breed).