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.

Wren is a very sweet, young, petite girl, who up until rescue lived as a stray on the reservation. Wren and her 4 puppies were found this summer on a SD reservation, hungry, thirsty, and scared. Wren was severely emaciated, literally down to skin and bones, after giving everything to keep her puppies alive. We took this little family into rescue and Wren and her puppies have been thriving since. We are so glad that we were able to help them. Wren was a wonderful mom to her pups, and now she will be an amazing companion to a very lucky adopter. 

Wren is a shy but very affectionate and lovable young girl.  Wren is crate-trained and potty-trained. She is very grateful to be indoors, safe, and pampered. Her foster mom tells us that Wren has this endearing bedtime habit, where she likes to make the rounds and check every kids' bedroom before settling down for the night.

Wren likes to follow foster mom around everywhere. She's sweet with the other dogs in the house and likes to mother them and lick their faces. She is very agile and can leap fairly high around the house and yard (over large flower pots, on the back of the couch), so we would prefer a 6ft fence for her. Wren knows how to sit, and as she grows more confident we have no doubt that she will easily learn more commands. Wren is slowly coming out of her shell, as she realizes her hard life is all in the past. She will need a patient adopter who will give her sufficient initial time and space. And who will continue to gently socialize her and provide her with positive experiences, as she continues to settle into this wonderful, safe, warm new life that she loves :).

Wren is a very loving, loyal pet, who will make a wonderful companion for a very lucky adopter.