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.

This handsome young boy is Dresden, and it won’t take a love potion for him to claim your heart. Just look at that happy face! While we don’t know an exact age on Dresden, we expect he is a young adult, maybe a year or so, based on his bouncy, goofy personality. Sweet and charming, silly and energetic, loyal and loving, Dresden would do best in a home that appreciates his puppy antics and knows how to guide him gently in training. He is a smart boy and has very quickly picked up a few basic commands: he knows “sit” and “go to bed” as his kennel command. He walks well on a leash and consistent walks and training will quickly make him a pro! He is very eager to please. His puppy excitement does still get the better of him at times, but redirection and treats for good behavior are helping him learn what we expect of him. Dresden is very friendly and playful with other dogs of all sizes and especially loves playing chase and wrestling with his foster sibling, Mouse. He can be a little pushy with his affection, but does understand and back off when he is corrected by other dogs. In typical Shepherd fashion, Dresden displays a Velcro-style attachment to his humans. He is great pup, with a fantastic temperament!

Like all GSDs, and other herding breeds that we have in rescue, Dresden will need training, consistency, boundaries, and lots of activity and socialization, in order to be a well-balanced, well-behaved dog. This sweet boy would make a great addition to an active home that will provide the love, structure, good leadership, activity and mental stimulation that he needs. Because of that, Dresden's ideal owner will have prior GSD, or other 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.