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.

Sophie  is approx. 4.5 months old and was part of a litter of 10 puppies that we rescued from a desperate situation when their owner fell on hard times. The puppies arrived with a huge intestinal worm infestation, as well as one of the worst flea infestations that we have seen, their poor heads and bodies crusty with scabs and flea dust.  After many vet visits, dewormer, antibiotic, good hygiene, nutritious food and lots of TLC in their wonderful foster homes, their rough beginning is but a distant memory ;). Sophie is now plump, happy, fluffy, healthy-looking, gorgeous, and a very active little pup who is ready for her forever home!

Sophie is very friendly and loves greeting people. She is a social butterfly who loves to go shopping and socializing at dog-friendly establishments. People of all ages are drawn by her utter cuteness. She also really enjoys playing with other pups. She loves to be petted, she loves to be rewarded with treats, and she adores getting attention. Sophie rides well in the car. She does great on outings. And she basically adores to be showered with attention everywhere that she goes. She's a sweet, gorgeous little diva ;). Sophie loves toys and to be played with. She now sleeps 7 hours straight at night in her crate, without accidents, but she is working on her potty-training during the day. She is a delightful little pup who needs a patient, loving owner as she figures out potty-training. She is a sweet, friendly, playful, and affectionate pup, with a lovely temperament.

Sophie is recovering from a Urinary Tract Infection with crystals in her urine. She is on antibiotics and Urinary SO prescription food. Once she completes the course of antibiotics and is cleared by our vet, she will be available for adoption.

Sophie appears to be a German Shepherd/Husky/Lab mix. Like all German Shepherd and German Shepherd mix puppies, Sophie will need lots of training, consistency, boundaries, and lots of activity and socialization, in order to become a well-balanced, well-behaved dog.