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.

Danny is an adorable 4 month-old puppy whom we rescued from a reservation in SD. Reservation dogs lead a very hard life, with no shelter, little food, and no vet care. Many of them die young due to accidents, deprivation, and/or sickness among other causes. We are so glad that we were able to help Danny!

Danny arrived in pretty bad shape, suffering from severe hair loss, full of scabs, and itching terribly. Poor Danny was suffering from Sarcoptic mange. Danny has now completed his treatment, his fur has come back very nicely, he is no longer itchy or uncomfortable, and our vet has given him the all-clear! 

Danny is a fantastic pup who is truly thriving in his foster home. He is a happy-go-lucky little guy, and a typical puppy, who is working on potty-training, and who loves to play and eat! He now knows "sit" and is currently working on "down". He can do a low-five and he is working on shake! Danny loves his crate. And he is doing great on his leash-training and he walks very nicely on a leash for a puppy.

Danny loves playing fetch and gently chewing on a variety of soft toys.  And he loves romping around with the other dogs in the household. Danny is pretty even-tempered and mellow: although he loves to play with toys and other dogs, and occasionally gets the zoomies, it doesn't last long, and he is pretty calm for a puppy. Danny is a fabulous puppy who will delight a very lucky pet parent!

Like all German Shepherd and German Shepherd mix puppies, Danny will need training, consistency, boundaries, and lots of activity and socialization, in order to become a well-balanced, well-behaved dog.