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.

Daenerys (aka Dani) and her 4 puppies found themselves in need of rescue this fall, on a SD reservation. 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. Dani was hungry, scared, emaciated, but very sweet and more than a little bit relieved to come into rescue with her puppies.

Dani is an approx 1.5 year-old girl who has been doing great in her foster home. She has adjusted well and has reached a healthy weight. She is a sweet, gorgeous girl who has been a great mom to her puppies, and she is now ready for a forever family of her own.

This is what Dani's foster mom has to say about her: "Dani, as we like to call her for short, has a sweet, calm disposition. She also has a wag that starts in her shoulders, and continues through her long body, all the way through her tail! Although she has a calm demeanor and listens very well, she is still a youngster and loves to play! Even in play, Dani has gentleness. Even though she has lived a different life than most dogs, she is already potty-trained and has picked up on commands like sit and stay very quickly. She is also a nice walker on leash and only needs minor redirection and doesn't pull! She generally does well around our resident cats. We also have two resident dogs who she loves to be around and play with. When it comes to people she hasn't met a person she doesn't like, especially if they want to rub her belly! She is a definite cuddler and at only 30 lbs she fits pretty comfortably on a lap! Dani is such a happy and sweet girl that she would bring joy to any family!"