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.

Cirrus is a stunning 11-month old white Siberian Husky young male. He is full of life and never stops smiling! His favorite things include chewing on bones and antlers, playing fetch with his squeaky ball, and experiencing nature -he loves bird watching and going on walks. Cirrus is very people oriented and loves following his people around! Cirrus would prefer a home with a calm environment to help manage his energy and arousal level. He is still a puppy so he needs an adopter that is willing to teach him how he should act in various situations, and sign up for training classes with him. He enjoys learning, and takes his treats gently. He has even learned how to catch his treats! Cirrus doesn't love his crate and he currently uses a heavy duty crate. He would do best with pet parents who are home a lot, and where he would normally not need to be alone more than 4 hours at a time. Cirrus loves everything and everyone, but he is a big boy, and he has a tendency to approach things with typical youthful enthusiasm and exhuberance, and is still learning not to mouth and jump up. For that reason alone, Cirrus would do best in an all adult household and around older kids. Cirrus would love a friendly, laid-back doggy sibling who is tolerant of puppy shenanigans. 

Cirrus has been dealing with soft stools since puppyhood (we experienced this too, upon his arrival). We ran many tests, tried various prescription diets with no relief, and there seemed to be no medical reason. This is currently under good management thanks to a high-quality raw dehydrated diet (Honest Kitchen) and herbal supplements, as well as follow up care at 5 Elements Holistic Vet in Omaha. It is hoped that as he grows and his GI system matures, he will hopefully outgrow this issue. However, it might require long-term management, and his special diet and supplements can be costly. Cirrus is looking for a patient, experienced, dedicated adopter. Someone who has plenty of of time to dedicate to his training (positive reinforcement training) - ideally someone with prior GSD or Husky experience, and who is home a lot and is able to spend lots of quality time with him, and can provide a calm, loving environment, with structured exercise. If that is you, please submit an application to adopt! At this time, Cirrus is only available for adoption to local applicants.