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.

Zeke is an affectionate, active 4-year old boy who loves his people. While not hyper, he is high-energy, and requires plenty of exercise and activity. He enjoys going for daily runs and walks. As long as Zeke gets a good amount of daily exercise, he settles down nicely and loves to snuggle.

Zeke absolutely loves his toys, and he is a strong chewer. He likes to play fetch and is figuring out how to bring the toy back to be thrown again. At this time, it works best if you are playing with two toys to keep him busy :). His favorites are Kongs and Tuffys. He is fully potty-trained and never chews on anything that isn’t his. He seems to do well with larger dogs with slow introductions. Zeke has a strong prey-drive, so we suspect he might be better with dogs his own size and no cats. He would be best with a family with older children, as younger children make him a little nervous and over-excited (barking, jumping up), especially until he gets to know them. However, he is normally calm and friendly around adults, even strangers.

He is crate-trained, but does very well left out of the crate as long as he gets his exercise. He is polite and affectionate. He will greet you at the door every day, sneak occasional kisses, and curl up next to you on the couch. When free of distractions, he knows how to sit, stay, lay down, speak, stand up, come, and (half) roll over. He is still working on these commands when distractions are present (ex: outside, or when when other dogs or kids are present) but is is a quick learner. He gets very excited about car rides and is working on his car manners. He is adaptable, but like any German Shepherd, does best with routine and consistency. He will make a fantastic dog for someone seeking a very active companion who is eager to follow you anywhere that you go!

Like all German Shepherd Dogs, Zeke will need 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.