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.

We recently rescued Ranger from a SD reservation. Reservation dogs lead a very hard life, with no shelter, little food, and no vet care. Many of them die at a young age on the reservation due to accidents, deprivation, and/or sickness, among other causes. Fortunately for Ranger, he is one of the lucky ones, as he got out safely, and he will now get to experience life as a beloved family pet.

Ranger is an approximately 3 y.o. Australian Cattle Dog with an adorable bobtail. This is what Ranger's fosters have to say about him: "Ranger is a great dog!  He does well around kids, he is good with other dogs, he is good with cats as well, he has good leash manners, he is potty-trained, and he is a great companion and a pleasure to have around the house. Ranger is smart, eager to please, he knows when to go, but will slow down when its time to relax. A few of Ranger's favorite activities include walks/runs, car rides, and playing with other dogs. While he has lots of energy, he is quite content to lounge around the house, once he has had his exercise. Ranger loves to cuddle, and he is so sweet! He loves his treats, and he takes them very gently out of your hand.  Ranger loves spending time with his humans. He is a quick-learner whose leash skills are improving every day. He can still pull a little at times, when distracted by other dogs, but he can be redirected relatively easily. He also has a strong prey drive and loves to chase running critters (squirrels, bunnies), but he is learning faster and faster every day to leave them alone. That being said, while he is good with the cat in his foster home, he may initially try to chase a cat that runs, until taught not to". Ranger has graduated to being left out the crate when his foster parents are not home, as he does well and they can trust him around the house unsupervised. Ranger's foster parents wanted to add that "it's been a pleasure taking care of Ranger, and whomever is lucky enough to take Ranger into their home as a forever friend is going to be getting a good, good dog!"

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

Reminder: Even if you exercise and play with your dog daily in your fenced yard, please remember that, 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.