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.

Ransom is a gorgeous, very sweet, approx 6 y.o. girl who up until rescue lived as a stray on the reservation. Reservation dogs lead a very hard life with no shelter, little food, and no vet care. Many of them die young due to accidents, deprivation, and/or sickness among other causes. Ransom is one of the lucky ones, as she made it into rescue. 

Ransom is good with other dogs. She is great with people. She can be a little shy at first, but she warms up quickly. She loves treats. She gives gentle kisses. She is an absolutely delightful. A gentle girl who will make a lovely companion for a very lucky adopter. We would like for Ransom to have a dog buddy, as she truly enjoys canine companionship. Ransom is an adorable petite, at under 50lbs.

Ransom and her 8 pups were just found last February on a SD reservation, cold, scared, and hungry. Ransom, being the sweet girl that she is, let the rescuers handle the babies while she watched, unsure but hopeful. We brought this little family into rescue so that they could receive the care that they needed and better lives; and so that Ransom, a sweet, but previously neglected and overbred mom, could start enjoying life as a cherished pet. Ransom's puppies have all found their homes. We cannot wait for this utterly sweet, deserving girl, to find her own happily-ever-after in a home of her own.