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.

Phoebe is a very sweet, approx 1 year-old girl who was dumped in a rural area with a painfully embedded cloth collar, extremely skinny, and with her coat and skin in very poor condition. The injury from her collar has since healed, she has put on some healthy weight, and her coat now looks gorgeous! She is still having some itching, so it is possible that she might have some allergies. 

Phoebe is very sweet and gentle, with a little bit of a goofy, playful side!  She is eager to please and wants to go wherever you go. She enjoys laying at your feet with the basket of toys and squeaking and throwing each one so she can roll around on the floor with it. She also likes exploring and finding new smells. She is learning leash manners and doing well, although she still tends to pull when she gets excited. She seems to love and get along with all dogs. She is currently in a foster home with cats. She's still a little unsure and cautious around them, but leaves them alone. She is very sweet and knows her basic commands. She responds very well to being called. She is a typical teenager, full of energy, and a busy body at times, so like all youngsters, she needs her daily exercise, routine, and structure.

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

Reminder: 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 work on his/her leash skills, manners, and social skills.