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.

Mercer  is a gorgeous, absolutely adorable 8 week-old-old boy puppy that we rescued from a small rural shelter. Mercer is an outgoing, spunky little guy who loves other dogs! His favorite pastime is finding large squeaky toys that are bigger than he is, and enticing the other household dogs to play games of tug-o-war with him! Mercer may be little, but he can hold his own, and he loves being in the midst of all the action! 

Mercer does wonderful with people and other dogs. He is working on potty-training and doing well, but like most puppies, he still has the occasional accident. Mercer is doing well with crate-training. He is an absolutely adorable, super fun, and active little pup! All this cutie wants is a playful doggy sibling to frolic with, and a warm lap to fall asleep on at night! We do not know for a fact what Mercer is mixed with, but our vet believes he will most likely be medium-sized and that he could be a Sheltie mix.

Mercer's adoption fee is $425, all of which goes back into offseting 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.