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 Ramsey and his 4 siblings from a SD reservation. Reservation dogs lead a very hard life, with no shelter, little food, and no vet care. Many of them die on the reservation due to accidents, deprivation, and/or sickness, among other causes. Fortunately for Ramsey, 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.

Ramsey and siblings arrived in pretty rough shape. They were very skinny and had significant hair loss, scabs, and itching terribly due to a severe case of Sarcoptic Mange. Their skin was very raw and itchy, and for weeks, they had to receive very frequent changes of bedding, baths, and be gently lathered with coconut oil and vitamin E cream every day to help soothe their sensitive skin. It wasn't until the puppies had received several mange treatments (these are done 2 weeks apart), that they finally started showing improvement, but we are glad to report that they have completed their treatment! Their fur is starting to really come back, and soon their coats will be soft and luxurious! They puppies have also put on some healthy weight, and they are now available for adoption.

Ramsey is a spunky, lovable little bundle of energy. He loves to run and play with the other household dogs but also does well by himself. He likes to play with squeaky balls, rope toys, and most anything else that he finds. He does well with crating and is working on his house-training, and starting to work on his leash-walking skills. He is learning to sit politely prior to receiving his food and will speak up if he needs to go out at night. He also enjoys snuggling by a warm fireplace on these cold snowy days, and even though he is just a puppy, he has no issues such as biting or nipping. He has done well around children with supervision. Ramsey is a really sweet pup for that special adopter!

We do not know that the Mistletoe Litter pups are mixed with. Our best guess is that they are herding breed mixes. These adorable little guys will make great additions to active families that will pamper them, but who will also work with them, as they are smart pups who will need plenty of activity and mental stimulation. This is true of all of the breeds that we rescue :).

Like all German Shepherd Dogs, Catahoulas, Australian Cattle Dogs, and other herding breed mixes that we have in rescue, Ramsey 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.