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.

Mars is a handsome, approx 3 month-old pup. Mars' mom, Juno and her 7 pups, were found this summer on a SD reservation, hungry, thirsty, emaciated, and crusty with mange. 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 Mars and his family! They are now all fully recovered and looking for their forever homes!

Mars is one of 7 puppies from the Juno (aka the Roman Gods) litter. Mars is an easy-going puppy who is just as happy snuggling and kissing his person (and he gives great puppy kisses!) as he is roughhousing with all of his siblings (and the Roman god of war that he was named after is evident once he starts playing with his brothers and sisters!). He’s a quiet guy who doesn’t join into the cacophony of puppy barking very often. He's one of the most adventurous puppies of his litter. Like all puppies, Mars loves to play hard and sleep hard. He gets along with fine with other dogs, including the small-breed puppies in his foster home. He is doing well with potty-training, can “sit” on command, is being leash-trained, is crate trained and does stairs well. While Mars loves to play with other dogs, he also loves to lounge around and nuzzle into your neck if you pick him up or hold him.

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