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.

Adara is a gentle, shy, 7 year-old girl. This pretty girl was bred non-stop during the first part of her life. In fact, Adara came to us as a breeder-release dog from a puppy-miller in Amish country: a sweet girl in big danger if she couldn't find rescue fairly quickly. Adara arrived in terrible shape, confused and insecure. She had clearly been an outdoor dog with ears badly chewed up by flies, and had no idea of how to go up/down stairs.

Adara is really enjoying life in a loving foster home. She is a nice, low-key girl, who is great with other dogs with slow introductions. She is still shy around humans, but she finds great comfort in being around other dogs. She has learned to go potty outside, and she is loving the life of a beloved, indoor pet. We can tell she's never had comforts, good care or love before. Everyday she discovers something new, with wonderment in her eyes. She has discovered she loves toys! And while she will gladly share everything with other dogs, she treats toys and doggy blankets like treasures, and lovingly piles them up in her crate. She kennels up nicely in her crate: all you need to do is open the crate for her to climb in! She loves the nice soft carpet on her footpads, the warmth, and safety of her foster home. She remains shy around foster mom, but she loves cuddling up with the other dog in her foster home, and gently plays with him and grooms him lovingly when she thinks no one is watching ;). Adara would absolutely love a quiet home with a pet parent who is home a lot, and a dog buddy!

Adara is a special jewel who will steal your heart with her gentle, soulful eyes. She is a sweet, quiet, unassuming girl, who is just very grateful to be safe and cared for, for the first time in her life. She loves quietly watching her humans from the comfort of a soft dog bed. Adara  is looking for a patient forever pet parent who will not rush her,  who will allow her plenty of time to adjust to her new home, and who will continue to provide gentle, patient socialization. Like all German Shepherds, Adara will also need structure, consistency, love, exercise (she loves to go for walks!) and socialization. Adara's ideal home will have some GSD experience &/or experience with shy/fearful dogs.

Adara is a lovely, gentle girl who will make someone a wonderful, moderate-energy companion. She has plenty and energy, loves to go on walks and discovering new trails, and can definitely keep up with an active family. But she does not require strenous exercise like some of her younger counterparts :). She has a very nice energy level.

ADOPTING A SENIOR: Seniors have much love and life left to give, and bring much happiness to the wonderful families who offer them a retirement home in their Golden Years. They are calmer, more mellow, require considerably less exercise, and are just as fun, loyal, and loving as younger dogs. Seniors are an excellent choice for first-time GSD owners or for anyone looking for a low-key, mellow companion! 

HUGS SENIOR REPEAT ADOPTER PROGRAM: When you adopt a HUGS senior, and later come back back to adopt another senior, you are eligible to pay a reduced senior adoption fee of $125. Thank you for loving these wonderful, very deserving dogs, as much as we do!