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.

Maddy is a very sweet and pretty Australian Cattle Dog mix girl, who is remarkably sweet and gentle. Maddy was rescued from a SD reservation with her puppies, and it is now Maddy's turn to find her forever home. Maddy is an adorable young girl who will steal your heart!

Maddy can be a little shy at first, but after she warms up to new people and animals, she is very sweet, affectionate and loving. Once she knows you, she is a real cuddle bug who will curl up in your lap! She is very athletic, agile, and super fast! She loves to go for walks, enjoys car rides, she loves to run in the backyard, and likes to go everywhere with her humans. She loves to go hiking and she is a great running partner! Large crowds, new people, and new dogs can make her a little uneasy, but she does well with slow introductions. Maddy enjoys the company of other dogs, and is playful with them. In fact, we would like for Maddy to have a dog buddy, as other pets help bring out her playful side. She likes chew toys, playing fetch, and playing tug of war with the household dog. She also does well around cats. She walks well on a leash, and we think she is simply a wonderful companion to have around!

This is what Maddy would like you to know about her herself: " Hi, my name is Maddy, and I am ready for a loving, active home! I am crate-trained, potty-trained, well-mannered, I like dogs, cats, and most of the time, kids (if kids are really loud, or screaming, I find it a bit scary). I love snuggles and kisses, car rides, and adventures!"

At around 40lbs, Maddy is an adorable, petite-sized cutie. She has a gorgeous coat and fluffy tail, and she is truly charming and lovely. Maddy will need an active home able to provide daily walks, in addition to backyard playtime, outings for socialization, and the usual training that youngsters require. In exchange, she will be a loyal and extremely lovable companion!

Like all the GSDs and other herding breeds that we have in rescue, Maddy will need training, consistency, boundaries, and lots of activity and socialization. Our dogs 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, plenty of activity and mental stimulation.

Reminder: Even if you exercise and play with your dog daily in your fenced yard, please remember that, 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.