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.

Meet new HUGS dog  Mia , a gorgeous 2 y.o. girl.  Mia 's previous owner told us that a change in her circumstances made it very hard for her to continue caring for  Mia .  Mia  found herself spending a lot of time in boarding, which was hard for such a family-oriented, loving pup. In the end,  Mia 's owner made the difficult decision to surrender her to HUGS, so that  Mia  could once again enjoy the warmth and stability of a loving home.

Mia  is a true jewel! As a sweet girl who was never  socialized,  Mia  tends to be shy and quiet in unfamiliar situations (outings, events). At home,  Mia  is a fun, loving pup with the people she knows.  Mia  has already started becoming more confident and outgoing in public, and will continue to do so with practice! She is great with other dogs and people, including kids, who will initially respect her space, and be kind and patient. If you are looking for a super loyal, fun, gorgeous girl,  Mia  may be the one for you!

Mia is a shy, long-legged girl who will steal some lucky person's heart and literally, their socks :). Mia is sweet, smart, and eager to please.  She wasn’t well socialized at her previous home so she will need to be given her space the first few days she is with you.  Don’t be disheartened if she is a little scared of you at first.  She simply needs  a kind, patient hand and positive reinforcement.  Once she knows that you are her source of love and food she will warm up to you fast and the first time she offers you her belly and kisses your face, your heart will belong to her.

She loves other dogs, especially ones who will wrestle with her.  She also loves bones, squeaky toys, balls, and peanut butter.  She doesn’t know how to play fetch yet but she’s very smart and will learn quickly when the weather warms up.  She dislikes the cold and doesn’t care to go walking in cold or wet weather.  Mia is a curious girl and can reach things you are sure have been put up high enough.  She’s also food driven and will counter-surf if given a chance.

Mia is a true jewel. If you are patient, smart, active, have high counters, and lots of socks, come talk to us about Mia.  She may be the girl for you!