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.

Gus is an adorable 2.5 month-old male 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 Gus!

Gus is a very fun, playful and very outgoing pup. He is mischievous and trouble always seems to find him! He is always on the go and a little busybody. He is either at 100% full speed, or sleeping, there is no in between! He will need an active home with dedicated owners to match his high-energy, and with the patience and sense of humor to appreciate his playful mischief :). 

His favorite toys are squeaky toys, rope toys, and balls. He loves to play! He's very independent and fearless, and would do fine as an only pup. But he also plays great with other dogs, and gets along with cats. He is working on potty-training and leash-walking. 

Gus absolutely loves his crate. In fact, foster mom calls him a little hoarder, as he likes to find all the toys in the house and drag them in his crate. When you move them outside of the crate, he will instantly go get them and drag them back in! He will also drag anything on the floor in there, including bathroom rugs, clothes, and shoes that he may find laying around the house! He's a typical puppy: playful, sweet, mischievious, and full of energy.

Gus would do best in an active household that will provide sufficient mental and physical stimulation, and socialization. Although not a German Shepherd, Gus is a lot like one, in that he will need a lot of exercise, socialization, boundaries, and leadership. For that reason, we would prefer a forever home with some experience with German Shepherds, Border Collies, Australian Cattle Dogs, or similar working breeds.

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