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.

Raven and her 7 puppies, including Benito, were rescued from a SD reservation. Reservation dogs lead a very hard life, with no shelter, little food, and no vet care. Many of them die on the reservation due to accidents, deprivation, and/or sickness, among other causes. Fortunately for this little family, they got out safely, and they will now get to experience life as beloved family pets. We do not know what Raven's puppies are mixed with, but Raven looks like a small black GSD mix.

Benito is b old and feisty. He loves to chase the dogs and cats around in his foster home. He also loves to play tug of war. When he has a puppy power burst, he runs in circles around the furniture and flings his toys all over the place. Benito comes when his name is called and loves to snuggle and falls asleep in your lap. He is doing well with kennel training and potty training. He LOVES the cat toys because they are the perfect size, especially the mouse that squeaks. He loves pulling the stuffing out of his barkbox plush toys. He sits automatically when he wants treats and food and is extremely food motivated!

Benito's adoption fee is $375, all of which goes back into offsetting our high-cost vetting expenses and rescuing more dogs. Adoption fees include spay/neuter, current on age-appropriate vaccinations, fecal, deworming, flea/tick and heartworm preventative, heartworm tested if old enough (treated if positive), and microchipped. Learn more about the adoption process and requirements, and apply at: http://heartlandgsrescue.rescuegroups.org/info/adoption .