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.

"Hello! I am Ginger. I am a 12-week-old puppy that my foster family believes to be an Aussie mix and I am looking for my fur-ever home. Please see the photos the pup-arazzi took to see me, in all my fluffiness! My foster family loves my energy and the fact that I get along with anyone, human to animal, from kids to other dogs of all sizes. I am a very smart puppy that trains quickly and is extremely witty, sassy, and fun! I love to be praised, I quickly learned my name. Kisses are my favorite, next to snuggles, and belly rubs! I am an extremely lovable puppy who listens to humans while tilting my head side-to-side in the most adorable manner. I am a very kind and gentle puppy who would love an active home, because I am an active puppy with lots of energy! I LOVE zooming around in the fenced backyard with the other dogs. Although I am a little clumsy now (I am just a little puppy), I will soon be faster and more agile, and then I will give the big dogs a run for their money! Yeah!! When it’s time for baths, I am a really good girl, and I enjoy to be washed and play in the water. I am also great in the car and love to sit on laps.  If you are looking for a super cute, active, fun puppy, with the most adorable facial expression and head tilts, you will love me! And I would love to become a part of your family, so please consider applying for me. Happy trails and paws-itive vibes!"

The adoption fee for Ginger is $395, all of which goes back into offseting our high-cost vetting expenses and rescuing more dogs. We are a 100% volunteer-run rescue group and rely on adoption fees and donations to continue saving lives. Adoption fees include spay/neuter, current on age-appropriate vaccinations, fecal, deworming, flea/tick and heartworm preventative, heartworm tested if old enough (and 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. Like any of our dogs and puppies, Ginger would make a great addition to an active home that will provide the love, structure, good leadership, activity and mental stimulation that her breed needs. Because of that, her ideal owner will have prior GSD or other herding 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.