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.

Silas is an adorable puppy who was confiscated by animal control due to neglect. Unfortunately, he was taken to an overcrowded kill shelter. This poor, unsocialized puppy was terrified, crawling away in fear to avoid being touched. Sadly, this made him unadoptable to the public, and put him on the euthanasia list. Silas arrived into rescue extremely scared, with skin issues (ringworm, presumably), and very skinny. Luckily, he found comfort in the company of the other dogs in his foster home, which helped him come out of his shell. After a couple of months is his fabulous foster home, Silas is now healthy, house-trained, happy, confident, and loving family life with his humans and the other dogs in the home.

Silas will not be available for adoption, as his fosters will be adopting him :).