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.

Whitney is a young cutie who came into rescue after her owner realized she could no longer care for her, due to her own health and financial issues. Whitney came in weighing a mere 43 lbs, at one year old! Thanks to good care, and a healthy, nutritious, diet, Whitney has been thriving. Less than 1 month later, Whitney now weighs 57lbs, and appears as healthy and happy as can be!

Whitney is a very sweet, happy young pup who just turned 1 y.o. She has adjusted beautifully to life in her foster home. She is playful and affectionate. She is friendly and loves people. She likes to follow her fosters all over the house, and roll on her back for belly rubs! She adores her food. Whitney is crate-trained and potty-trained. She loves to be involved in whatever you happen to be doing and especially loves to "help" with yard work! 

Whitney is a typical GSD youngster with lots of energy and enthusiasm! She loves going for walks, she is learning to play fetch, and she loves to play ball and tug-o-war with the household dog. Whitney is great with the household dog, very playful but respectful and submissive. She will need an active home that will provide plenty of daily activity and exercise. Whitney will need her forever family to continue working on her not jumping up, especially when she gets excited. Whitney loves her walks. She will need her adopter to continue working on her leash skills. Whitney is very smart and eager to please. She loves to learn new things and is a delight to train.

When Whitney came into rescue, less than a month ago, she was skin and bones, and appeared to be literally starving. She is starting to realize that she will never have to go hungry again. She loves her snacks and meals (she currently gets nutritious meals 3 times a day). She will let her humans touch her bowl while she eats, but she is clearly nervous and will growl if the household dog comes too close while she eats. This is pretty common with dogs that have gone hungry in the past, and usually resolves in time, as they realize that there's plenty to go around, and that they don't have to fight for resources.  It's also easily managed by feeding separately or by feeding Whitney in her crate. Whitney is also a typical young GSD pup who needs to be monitored outside of her crate so that she only chews on her toys and other approved items. 

Whitney is a very sweet, totally adorable, typical high-energy youngster. She's also a smart girl who needs to be stimulated, have strong leadership and learn new things. She just wants to be with her gang and have fun! It's very important for GSDs to be on a high-quality diet, as they are prone to GI upsets, allergies, and sensitivities. This is especially important with Whitney, who was failing to thrive on a low-quality diet, but has gained weight and flourished thanks to a healthy, nutritious diet. She currently eats a diet of Honest Kitchen Grain-Free Dehydrated dog food (beef or any varieties other than poultry) mixed in with a high-quality canned food or kibble. This is more costly than other diets, but it has really helped Whitney thrive and we would like her to stay on it, or something comparable.

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

** WHITNEY IS CURRENTLY BEING FOSTERED IN KANSAS CITY, MO. She does not attend weekly Omaha events, but she is available for adoption to approved applicants in both the Omaha & KC areas (as always, provided that it's a good fit )