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.

Emrys is a handsome, very sweet young boy who came to us from a Reservation in SD, after he was hit by a car and broke his femur near his hip. Thanks to surgery and rehab exercises, Emrys is once again able to walk, run, jump, and enjoy a full, active life! 

Emrys is approx 1.5 years old, and he has an amazing temperament! He is wonderful with people and other dogs. He loves to play with other dogs, but he also knows how to take cues from them and respect their space when they've had enough. He is sweet, affectionate, and very smart. Emrys truly is the whole package!

This is what Emrys' wonderful foster mom has to say about him: "Emrys is the best little Australian Cattle Dog/mix ever! Despite daily pain while he healed this little guy has been an absolute joy as he discovered how to live inside a house, that food was provided several times a day, and that cuddles are available upon request. He would be quite content if he could glue himself to his foster mom’s side.

Emrys is a good-natured and happy little guy. He is crate-trained and potty-trained. He is good with other dogs and loves to play. He loves everyone, big or small, however he would do best in a home with older children that he can’t accidentally run into and knock over. He is very interested in the cat but has been gentle with him and knows basic Obedience commands. He is an eager-to-please learner and responds extremely well to praise.

This little love is still a baby at under two years old, he needs plenty of playtime and activity every day. Emrys is not a couch potato kind of dog and probably never will be. He loves to have a job or project. Due to his hip injury he is probably not a good choice for someone who wants a daily multi-mile running partner. Emrys would be great at Obedience, Rally, Scent Work, Freestyle, Flyball, Agility and other dog sports. The vet has released him with no restrictions on activity but he might want to take it a bit easy for few more months.

Like all German Shepherd Dogs, Australian Cattle Dogs, and other herding breed mixes that we have in rescue, Emrys will need training, consistency, boundaries, and lots of activity and socialization, in order to become a well-balanced, well-behaved dog.