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.

Juniper is a very sweet, fun, and affectionate 8 year-old long-coated GSD who found herself in need of rescue after her owner passed away. Juniper arrived with a terribly matted coat and some very painful tangles that had caused some skin issues. We gave her several baths, brushed, combed, and trimmed as much as we safely could. However, the mats were so compacted in several areas (belly, armpits, and legs) and so very close to her already irritated skin, that they were impossible to brush or safely trim without risking further injury. Because of that, we followed our vet's recommendation to sedate Juniper so the worst areas could be shaved (and did a dental cleaning while she was under as her teeth and gums needed some attention as well). Our vet did an excellent job with both, and once the painful mats were gone and she was placed on antibiotics, her skin started healing very nicely. Juniper is doing gret and her long, soft, fluffy coat has been steadily growing back!

Juniper is an absolutely lovely mature girl who is well-behaved, very sweet, she LOVES food and treats, loves to go on mild walks, and LOVES to get attention and be petted! She is absolutely delightful, and a truly happy, loving, sunny girl, who makes you want to smile. She is wonderful with people and other dogs. She is easy to care for, and simply wants to love you and be loved back!

Juniper's adoption fee is $225, 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. Please visit http://heartlandgsrescue.rescuegroups.org/info/adoption for more information about our adoption process and requirements, and to apply.

ADOPTING A SENIOR: Seniors have much love and life left to give, and bring much happiness to the wonderful families who offer them a retirement home in their Golden Years. They are calmer, more mellow, require considerably less exercise, and are just as fun, loyal, and loving as younger dogs. Seniors are an excellent choice for first-time GSD owners or for anyone looking for a low-key, mellow companion! 

HUGS SENIOR REPEAT ADOPTER PROGRAM: When you adopt a HUGS senior, and later come back back to adopt another senior, you are eligible to pay a reduced senior adoption fee of $125. Thank you for loving these wonderful, very deserving dogs, as much as we do!