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.

Arabella is a super cute almost 6 month-old girl puppy. Her mom, Shiloh, is a gorgeous and very sweet German Shepherd who came from the Reservation with 8 young puppies, including Arabella.

This is what Arabella's awesome foster mom has to say about her: "Arabella is a little pumpkin! She is VERY intelligent, healthy, food, toy, and praise-motivated. She plays very well with other dogs, loves the cat, she is potty and crate-trained. She is good with bathing, grooming, and nail trims. She is a little go-getter and will be a great dog for a home that is active and wants a dog that will go anywhere and do anything. She is quite bold and not at all shy and retiring. Arabella likes to hang out with foster mom and the other dogs and cat, and at times she will put herself in her crate to take a little break. Arabella is smart enough to know what she likes to do but also smart enough to think about whether she can get away with it! She is very inquisitive and figured out how to get food out of all her interactive dog toys in one day! She wags as she carries around her toy that is twice as big as she is and loves to show it off.  She isn't afraid of anything and is extremely agile. Arabella loves a good cuddle and kisses but isn't a lap dog.  She needs a home with no young kids, that will respect her space and give her alone time when she wants. She is high-energy and plays hard with the other dogs in her foster home for about 1 ½ hours a.m. and p.m. She is a busy baby. If you don’t give her something to do, she will find something to do. Arabella would be a great partner for an active home interested in dog sports. She has started Come, Sit, Stay, Leave It, Give, Bring, Kennel, Wait, Get Back, Off, and Heel/Leash Walking." Training classes are highly recommended for this smart, high-energy girl, who loves to learn and be on-the-go. If you enjoy long walks, running, hiking, and being active in general, Arabella would be a perfect, enthusiastic partner!"

Arabella is a remarkable puppy, extremely smart and trainable, driven, eager-to-please, sweet yet independent. She will be the pride and joy of a very lucky, active adopter, and will delight of a GSD/herding breed lover, with her many great qualities!