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.

Poor Zelda had landed at a very high kill shelter in Oklahoma with her 7 tiny babies. She was extremely undernourished, and scared. Yet, she was sweet and gentle, and she allowed the staff to handle the babies. Unfortunately, with the shelter being so full, both Zelda and her young puppies quickly became very urgent. Luckily, we were able to spring the entire little family out in the nick on time! When Zelda arrived, she was extremely scared, emaciated, truly skin and bones, and it took lots of TLC, nourishing snacks, and extra meals in her awesome foster home, to help her gain confidence and a healthy weight. We are so glad that we were able to bring Zelda and her puppies to safety, so that they can now experience life as beloved family pets. All of Zelda's puppies have been adopted, and now it is Zelda's turn to find a great forever home of her own!

Zelda is a sweet girl who is just a little bit shy at first around new people and in new places. But as soon as she gets comfortable, she starts showing you her fun, affectionate side.  She is a sweetheart! She loves getting petted and being near you. A lot of things are still new to Zelda but she is a smart cookie and learns fast! Zelda is potty-trained, crate-trained, and her leash skills keep improving! Zelda is very sweet, likes attention, and she will give little kisses when you pet her. Once she's fully comfortable, she becomes a cuddle bug!

Zelda is great with other dogs, and loves to be around the other dogs in her foster home. However, she is not extremely playful and prefers being around calm dogs that will play a little, then provide companionship and cuddles. Zelda does great around the cats in her foster home. Zelda loves cheese, and her foster parents tell us that cheese has been a great motivator in getting her to learn and try new things! Zelda is a sweet girl, a very pleasant, low-key companion, yet fun and active companion. Zelda is looking for a patient pet parent who will not rush her, who will allow her time to adjust to her new home, and who will continue to provide gentle socialization. In turn, she is going to make a fabulous family pet for a very lucky adopter!

Zelda's adoption fee is $275, all of which goes back into offsetting our high-cost vetting expenses and rescuing more dogs. Adoption fees include spay/neuter, current on age-appropriate vaccinations, fecal, deworming, flea/tick and heartworm preventative, heartworm tested if old enough (treated if positive), and microchipped. Learn more about the adoption process and requirements, and apply at: http://heartlandgsrescue.rescuegroups.org/info/adoption .