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.

Raven and her 7 puppies, including Roderick, were rescued from a SD reservation where they were found living under an abandoned house. Reservation dogs lead a very hard life, with no shelter, little food, and no vet care. Many of them die on the reservation due to accidents, deprivation, and/or sickness, among other causes. Fortunately for this little family, they got out safely, and they will now get to experience life as beloved family pets. We do not know what Raven's puppies are mixed with, but Raven looks like a small black GSD mix.

Roderick is super playful, loves bones and his rope toy. He is doing great with crate-training, and sometimes will even go nap in the crate on his own. He is also doing great with potty-training and goes to the back door to be let out, when he needs to go potty. He knows "sit" and "down", and is currently working on "stay". Rod comes when called, and really wants to please you. He is such a good boy! Rod loves to play with other dogs, and is an enthusiastic, vocal player. Rod is a fun, active pup, but when he is tired, he wants to be at your feet or as close to you as he can be. He is an adorable, very smart boy.

Roderick's adoption fee is $145, all of which goes back into offsetting our high-cost vetting expenses and rescuing more dogs. Adoption fees include spay/neuter, current on age-appropriate vaccinations, fecal, deworming, flea/tick and heartworm preventative, heartworm tested if old enough (treated if positive), and microchipped. Learn more about the adoption process and requirements, and apply at: http://heartlandgsrescue.rescuegroups.org/info/adoption.