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.

Kalen is a smart, energetic, young adult, who weighs 38lbs. He is super cute!! Kalen is shy at first, but super sweet and affectionate as soon as he warms up!  Kalen walks well on a leash and loves to go on long walks and car rides.  He is fun-loving, and always ready to go on an adventure. Kalen is very smart and alert, and doesn't miss a thing!  He is an active, delightful companion who is well-behaved in the house and in public.

Kalen is crate-trained and potty-trained. He loves to snuggle with you and follow you around. He sits nicely for treats, loves chewing on nylabones. He knows basic commands and sits calmly when you are preparing dinner and while you are eating a meal. He gets along great with the other dogs in his foster home, and LOVES to meet new dogs and play with them. In fact, Kalen would love to go to a home with another playful dog! Once he's had his fun and exercise, Kalen enjoys napping on a soft dog bed.

Kalen is shy around new people. He just needs a little bit of extra time to get fully comfortable. As soon as he warms up, Kalen will start showing you his fun, affectionate side! Kalen needs slow, managed introductions to new people in his home. A quieter home without a lot of different people going in and out would be best for this sweet boy. Kalen is looking for a patient pet parent who will not rush him and who will continue to provide gentle socialization. In turn, you will be rewarded with so much love and joy in your life, as Kalen is extremely affectionate, loyal, fun, and playful once he warms up! 

Kalen's adoption fee is $275, all of which goes back into offsetting our high-cost vetting expenses and rescuing more dogs. Adoption fees include spay/neuter, current on age-appropriate vaccinations, fecal, deworming, flea/tick and heartworm preventative, heartworm tested if old enough (treated if positive), and microchipped. Please visit http://heartlandgsrescue.rescuegroups.org/info/adoption for more information about our adoption process and requirements, and to apply.