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.

Cleo is a very sweet 5 month old puppy who only weighs 26 lbs. She is definitely on the petite side and looks a lot like a miniature German Shepherd. Cleo is so cute! We found Cleo in pretty bad shape at a shelter, with severe fur loss and skin issues. With good nutrition and vet care, and some TLC in her awesome foster home, Cleo's skin now looks great, her fur is all coming back, and she is starting to look fabulous! She is a sweetheart who will be the pride and joy of a very lucky adopter.

Cleo likes to be snuggled, but also loves to run and play with the other dogs in her foster home. She is curious but respectful with the cats. Her favorite activities are "keep away" and playing in the water. Cleo is still a puppy and gets the zoomies now and then (so cute!) but she is pretty calm for a puppy. She is smart and is doing great learning sit, down, come, shake, leash-walking, and waiting politely for her meals. Cleo is crate-trained and nearly house trained. She is an especially sweet girl!

Cleo's adoption fee is $325, 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.