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.

Tucker is a super handsome, fluffy, approximately 3 month-old boy  who was rescued from a reservation in SD. 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. As a matter of fact, Tucker a rrived sick with Parvo and required several emergency visits along with lots of TLC in his foster home, as he fought and overcame this disease. We are glad to report that Tucker is now all recovered and is ready for his furever home!

Tucker loves to play with toys, he quickly learned to do stairs, and he is athletic and full of energy. He holds his own with the bigger dogs in his foster home. He has an unbounded, enthusiastic play-style so he needs a little guidance at times, but he listens well. He likes to cuddle and give kisses. He is a typical puppy and he is learning not to mouth. Everything is new to Tucker, who is fresh off the reservation. He can be a little insecure in new situations and around new people: while he wants to go investigate, and is friendly and playful, he will sometimes get shy and barky. He will need his furever home to gently continue socializing him, and providing ongoing positive experiences with new people in different settings. His leash-training is going well. He is doing great with potty-training and crate-training. He tolerates baths well, enjoys car rides, and he is one smart little guy who likes to learn and is food-motivated. 

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