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.

Keka is a beautiful, approx 3 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. We are so glad that we were able to help Keka! 

Keka is a very sweet, happy girl, with a great personality.  She loves to play with her littermate Aranja, and with the bigger dogs in the household, more than anything else! Keka has a soft heart and is the sensitive one in the group :). She takes things to heart, gets sad if she thinks she is in trouble, and just wants to please and be loved. 

Keka is totally adorable and melts the heart of everyone who meets her. She loves to sit and hang out with her humans. Keka and littermate Aranja are both getting good at "sit", "come" and they are doing well with crate-training.

Like all puppies, Keka will need plenty of activity, socialization, boundaries, consistency and leadership in order to become a well-balanced, well-behaved dog.