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.

Reesie Jo is a gorgeous, approx 2.5 month-old girl pup whom we 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. Reesie Jo is a very lucky girl to have made it into rescue, and we are very glad that we were able to help her! 

Reesie Jo loves to chew on her Nylabones and play with stuffed dog toys. She also looooves to eat! She gets super excited as foster mom prepares her meals and can barely contain her enthusiasm! She is very vocal, and likes to chase her tail and her foster sister Meera, all over the place! Reesie Jo loves to play with other dogs and would be great with a playmate. She is very playful, very energetic and enthusiastic, a typical high-energy puppy. Reesie Jo is still learning doggy manners, including not to dig, not jump up or mouth. She loves tummy rubs! And she is improving on her potty training :). 

Reesie Jo would do best in an active household that will provide plenty of mental and physical stimulation, and socialization. Although not a German Shepherd, Reesie Jo is a lot like one, in that she will need a lot of exercise, socialization, boundaries, and leadership. For that reason, we would prefer an owner with some experience with German Shepherds, Australian Cattle Dogs, or similar working breeds.

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