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.

Ronin is a very sweet boy who was originally rescued from a Reservation in South Dakota and adopted from us as a puppy. Ronin was recently returned to our rescue as a senior (with another dog, Kaiya), due to no fault of their own, when their humans' went through some challenging life changes. Ronin came back to us needing some TLC and vet care. Especially, in regards to a skin issue on his face that had gone untreated for a while. He has received treatment and nothing further is needed. He is doing great, other than he may not be able to completely regrow fur in all spots, due to how long the issue was neglected. He has already regrown so much fur, though, and he looks so great!

Ronin is such a character! He is a friendly, funny, goofy boy, who is fairly well-behaved on outings. He can be a little barky around strange dogs but reacts well to correction. He does well meeting new people easily when out and about. He benefits from slower introductions when meeting strangers in the house, as he is more protective of the other animals in his home. Ronin is dog-friendly, just needs slow introductions with new dogs over a couple of days. He does well with all the adults and kids in his foster home. At the end of the day he always wants to jump up and snuggle with his humans. He is a very sweet boy! 

Like any of our dogs, this handsome boy would make a great addition to an active home that will provide the love, structure, good leadership, activity and mental stimulation that her breed needs. Because of that, Ronin's ideal owner will have prior GSD or other herding breed experience. Even if you exercise and play with your dog daily in your fenced yard, please remember that you MUST still take your dog out on daily walks and outings, in order to provide sufficient stimulation, ward off boredom, and work on leash skills, and manners.