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.

Daria is an adorable 12 week-old girl puppy who was rescued from living the life of a stray on a reservation in SD. Reservation dogs lead a very hard life, with no shelter, little food, and no vet care. Many of them die due to accidents, deprivation, and/or sickness among other causes. We are very glad that we were able to help Daria!

Like most Reservation puppies, she arrrived, Daria was way too skinny, so very dirty and she did not feel well due to parasites. She's now loving life in her foster home. She's happy, looks healthy and she is gaining weight and growing like a champ! She is very sweet, affectionate and intelligent. At her young age, she is doing great with potty-training, crate-training, knows how to “sit” on command and she is working on “stay”. Daria loves playing with her toys and playfully pouncing on the other dogs in her foster home. She has so much personality packed in a tiny body, and she is a sassy talker when she disagrees or has something to say! That said, she redirects well and understands what “no” means...she just won’t go quietly ;).  She is a beautiful puppy, eager to learn and a delight to train.

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