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.

Iris is an absolutely adorable, beautiful girl, who will steal your heart. Iris recently found herself living outdoors in a relative's backyard, after a new household member turned out to be allergic to dogs. Poor sweetheart!

Iris is a great girl, with a wonderful temperament. She is great with people, including kids. She is sweet, cuddly, and good with other pets (dogs, cats). Iris is 60 lbs at 9 months old, and appears to be a Husky/Aussie or Husky/Shepherd mix. 

Iris is a super sweet, gentle soul and is quite laid back for a puppy! She enjoys playing with the other dogs in the house, but is also content to lay down and chew on a toy next you. She loves to be petted, and she loves treats. She rides great in the car, and is crate-trained. Iris is still a puppy and doesn't quite realize how big she is. She is still learning the basics, such as not jumping up when excited. She is super smart and in only a few days has improved greatly on things such as walking on a leash without pulling, sitting nicely to wait for food, and taking treats more gently. She is sweet as can be, and will make a wonderful addition to a very lucky family!

Iris' adoption fee is $375, 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.