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.

Emily is a sweet, gentle, pretty girl that we rescued from a very crowded kill shelter in Oklahoma.  Emily is approximately 4 years old. She's a little bit shy at first, but once she knows you, she enjoys belly rubs and she shows you her playful side. She's a sweet, loyal girl who is crate-trained, potty-trained, and knows her basic commands. Emily tends to be reactive to strange dogs and needs very slow introductions over days to new dogs. Because of that, we would like to find Emily a home where she can be the only pet. However, we will consider experienced homes with another laid back dog, who are willling to do slow introductions. Emily loves car rides and enjoys walks (she is learning to ignore other dogs on walks, and is doing great!). She is a lovable, very pleasant, and laid-back companion to have around the house.  This girl will make a very lucky adopter very happy!

Like all German Shepherds, this darling girl would make a great addition to an active, experienced home that will provide the love, structure, good leadership, activity and mental stimulation that she needs. Because of that, Emily's ideal owner will have prior GSD, or similar breed experience. Even if you exercise and play with your dog daily in your fenced yard, please remember that you MUST still take your dog out on daily walks and outings, in order to provide sufficient stimulation, ward off boredom, and work on leash skills, and manners.

Emily's adoption fee is $350, 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.