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.

Jolie is a very sweet, beautiful puppy who landed in a rural kill shelter in Missouri that was quickly filling up, with 2 other siblings (Bernard and Pierre). The pound can be a scary place, especially for a puppy. This adorable little trio was so thankful and relieved to be rescued!

Jolee is an adorable, brown-eyed, sweet little girl. She is a 3.5 month-old puppy who is medium energy, loves to play, and do zoomies. Jolie likes other dogs and plays well with them. She also knows how to entertain herself, and is just as content stacking toys around herself and playing on her own. She is doing well with the cats in her foster home. Jolie is working on crate-training and potty-training, and doing well. She is very smart and loves treats!! Jolie likes to stay close to her people and snuggle when she is tired.

Like any of our dogs, this sweetheart will make a great addition to an active home that will pamper him, but that will also work with him, as herding breeds are smart dogs who need structure, good leadership, lots of activity and mental stimulation. Jolie will need daily walks in addition to backyard playtime, outings for socialization, and the usual training that youngsters require. Because of that, Jolie's ideal owner will have prior Heeler, GSD, or other herding breed experience. 

Jolie's adoption fee is $395, all of which goes back into offseting 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.