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.

Oliver is a long-coated, absolutely gorgeous boy who inexplicably landed in a high-kill shelter in Southern California, as a stray. We were able to pull him out and into safety thanks to the amazing Miracle GSD Network, and bring him to Omaha.

When Oliver arrived, he was very skinny. He was also clearly unsocialized and quite scared of people and other dogs. Oliver has been gaining weight and confidence in his foster home and is truly thriving! Oliver now does wonderfully with the other dogs in his foster home and he is does great also with people and other dogs at events.

Oliver is a stunning, fluffy boy. As most young adults, he has plenty of energy and he will need an active home that will exercise him, train him, and continue to socialize him. Oliver has strong prey drive and would do better in a home with no cats. We would prefer a 6 ft fence and/or a very vigilant owner, as this handsome, athletic boy, could easily clear a 4ft fence in pursuit of a squirrel.

Oliver loves to go on outings with his humans. He also loves treats and he likes to play with toys. His foster mom tells us that his favorite toy, is a hamburger-shaped toy that arrived in one of their Barkboxes :).

Oliver is a truly stunning, sweet boy who will need his furever owners to continue socializing him so that he may continue to grow and blossom into the cool, friendly, outgoing guy that he is becoming!