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.

Belle is a gorgeous, very sweet, affectionate and playful approx. 5 month-old girl who prior to rescue, used to live on a reservation in SD. Reservation dogs lead a very hard (often short) life, with no shelter, little food, and no vet care.

When Belle first arrived, she was skin and bones. She also had a moderate case of mange, and was terribly itchy, covered up in scabs, and a couple of small open wounds. After weeks of treatments and lots of TLC in her awesome foster home, Belle is fully recovered and ready for her forever home! Belle's coat looks gorgeous, she has gained a healthy weight. Belle is a fantastic pup who's always happy to greet her humans. She's energetic and playful, loves to wrestle with her foster brother and play fetch! When not playing, Belle loves her chewies of bones, hooves, and horns.

She has the cutest heart on her forehead and it's truly a marker of how loving she is. She loves to cuddle and really wants to please. She's an enthusiastic eater and is just as enthusiastic about training and learning new skills. She is going to be an absolutely fantastic companion for someone who wants a buddy for running, hiking, or dog sports. Her "sit" is spot on. Her "down" and "come" are progressing quickly. She is a great, well-rounded pup.

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