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.

Star is an adorable 5 month-old girl 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 Star!

When Star arrived, she was very itchy, scabby, uncomfortable and missing fur in several spots due to Sarcoptic mange. She also arrived very sick due to prior lack of care, and required lots of TLC, IV fluids, and antibiotics until she beat the odds, and regained her strength and appetite! Star is now healthy, strong, fully recovered, a happy and totally gorgeous pup, who is ready for her furever home!

Star is a fantastic girl who is thriving and loving life in her foster home. She is a sweet, cheerful girl, whose happiness and enthusiasm are contagious! She is a typical puppy with tons of energy. She loves to play with the other dogs in her foster home. She loves her toys, playing fetch, going for walks, and car rides! She is crate-trained and potty-trained. She adores food and treats. She is a super smart girl who is eager to learn and please. Her favorite toys are her squeaky balls and plush chew toys. Even though Star is definitely high-energy, she also loves to cuddle and one of her favorite things is to lay on the couch next to her humans for some lovins'.  

Star is a hilarious, super active, super fun firecracker of a little pup. She is exceedingly smart and full of personality. Star would do best in a very active household that will provide plenty of
mental and physical stimulation for this energetic little gal. Although not a German Shepherd, Star is a lot like one, in that she will need a lot of exercise, socialization, boundaries, and leadership in order to become a well-balanced, well-behaved dog. For that reason, we are looking for someone with some experience with German Shepherds, Australian Cattle Dogs, Border Collies, or similar working breeds.