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.

Sullivan is a typical youngster, approx 1.5 y.o., who is full of energy and enthusiasm! He loves his walks, running in the backyard with his humans and the other household dog, playing fetch, and chewing on his toys. Once he's had enough exercise, he likes to relax, and nap on the couch if allowed ;).  

Sullivan already knows "sit", he is learning "down", and he is working on not jumping up. Like many GSD youngsters, he has a bit of a tendency to mouth and herd, but he redirects very well. In fact, he is very food-motivated and a quick-learner!

Sullivan walks very well on a leash.  He is great with other dogs, and cats with slow introductions and good supervision. And he is a very lovable, gentle boy.  Sullivan is timid when he is surrounded by people that he hasn't met yet.  However, when he gets to know you, he will shower you with kisses!

Sullivan is extremely fun, lovable and affectionate with the people he knows (household members, friends, and family). When he came into rescue, Sullivan was quite shy and timid in public around strangers, due to his prior lack of socialization. With practice, he has really come out of his shell, and we would like for his adopter to continue providing outings and other positive socialization opportunities, so that he can continue to gain confidence and blossom.  

Sullivan is a super handsome, sweet, goofy, lovable young boy who will make a great addition to an active home! 

Sullivan's adoption fee is $275, all of which goes back into offseting our high-cost vetting expenses and rescuing more dogs.  We are a 100% volunteer-run rescue group and rely on adoption fees and donations to continue saving lives. Adoption fees include spay/neuter, current on age-appropriate vaccinations, fecal, deworming, flea/tick and heartworm preventative, heartworm tested if old enough (and treated if positive), and microchipped. Please visit http://heartlandgsrescue.rescuegroups.org/info/adoption for more information about our adoption process and requirements, and to apply.

Like all German Shepherd youngsters and mixes, Sullivan will need training (positive reinforcement training), consistency, boundaries, and lots of activity and socialization. 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. 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, structure, plenty of activity and mental stimulation.