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.

Delia is a beautiful puppy who came to us from a Reservation in SD with a broken tibia. Initially, we believed that Delia would need surgery. However, the leg injury was not as recent as we had been led to believe, and the healing process had already started. Because of that, the orthopedic surgeon elected to splint Delia's leg instead, and give it a chance to heal on its own. After 4 weeks of splinting, re-check x-rays, and crate rest, Delia's amazing puppy healing powers successfully healed her leg without surgery! What a lucky girl! Delia is delighted that her crate rest is over, as she simply loves to run, play, and be active.

Delia is approximately 3.5 months old. She is a gorgeous puppy with one blue eye, and one brown eye. She is a little shy at first, but she warms up quickly. She loves people and she absolutely loves to play with other dogs. She is extremely smart and loves to learn new things. She is very active and agile. She is very food motivated, and loves mealtimes and getting rewarded with treats. Delia understands some basic commands, she is crate-trained, and she is doing very well with potty-training. Delia is working on her leash manners, and on her mouthing. She is such a smart girl, eager to please, who corrects easily. She is fabulous in every way, and she will be a great addition to a very lucky, active household.

We are not sure what Delia is mixed with, but she looks like she might be mixed with Australian Cattle Dog, Border Collie, and/or Aussie. Like all German Shepherd Dogs, Australian Cattle Dogs, and other herding breed mixes that we have in rescue, Delia will need training, consistency, boundaries, and lots of activity and socialization, in order to become a well-balanced, well-behaved dog.