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.

Jasper is a gorgeous boy who ended up in an overcrowded kill shelter. He was extremely scared, terrified even, and he would not allow anyone to approach him, which unfortunately made him unadoptable to the public, and landed him on the euthanasia list. Thanks to a fabulous, dedicated volunteer who agreed to foster him, and to the Miracle GSD Network's support, we were able to pull him from the shelter before it was too late. It turns out that Jasper is incredibly sweet and affectionate, but he was so confused and terrified in the scary shelter environment that he had shut down. Within days of arriving in his foster home, he started warming up and thriving. He now loves playing with toys, spending time with his humans, getting petted, playing with the other dog in the household, and he recently even conquered his extreme fear of car rides, and now loves to go out for frozen yogurt with his family.

Jasper will not be available for adoption, as his foster parents will be adopting him :).