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.

Freya is an adorable 3 month-old girl, who appears to be a GSD mix puppy. We recently rescued Freya and siblings (Apollo, Hans, Heidi, Odin, and Thor). Within days of arriving, this adorable little gang came down with Parvo and had to be treated for several days, as they fought for their lives. All six are now fully recovered and ready for their furever homes!

Freya is a very sweet, active girl, who LOVES to play and cuddle with other dogs. She loves toys, people, and she is very food and treat-motivated. Freya especially loves rubber Kong toys and anything that can be used for tug of war with the other dogs! She particularly enjoys taking turns playing chasing with the other dogs in her foster home. She is crate-trained and doing well with potty-training. When she wants attention (or if you stop petting her and she wants more) she rubs her face on your hand and lets out a cute little sigh/whimper noise...so cute! While Freya is very playful, she's also pretty quiet and very sweet. She sleeps very well in the crate throughout the night without complaint. She is an adorable girl whose happy demeanor will bring a smile to your face!

Freya's adoption fee is $395, all of which goes back into offseting 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.