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.

Kit is an adorable approximately 2.5 month-old girl who was 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. Kit is a very lucky girl to have made it into rescue, and we are so glad that we were able to help her!

Kit loves people! She loves to give kisses all over the chin and to be held and snuggled. You can often find Kit right at your heels liking for you to pick her up and snuggle. When it's play time she's quite the ball of energy and loves to play tug of war. She also likes to hide in small spaces and pounce on her foster sisters. Sometimes she can be a little intimidated by bigger playful pups because she is so much smaller than them. However, give her a little time and she'll Be wrestling around in no time! Her favorite toy so far is a tiny squeaky elephant that also has wrinkly ears, which she likes to chew on and play tug of war with. 

Kit is currently working on kenneling right now together and have started the potty training process. Kit doing pretty well with kenneling. She is a healthy eater and is doing well with the cats in her foster home.

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