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.

Dansby is a very sweet boy who is only 8 months old, and got left behind, outside, after his owner moved. Luckily, one of his neighbors watched over him, bringing him food and water in the yard, while looking for rescue for him. We are still very full, but how could we say no to this poor boy who is still a baby? 

Dansby could not be a nicer boy! He is sweet, good with other dogs, and he even seems to be cat-friendly from what we've seen. Dansby has been thriving in his foster home! He loves being an indoor family pet. He is sweet with the kids, gets along beautifully with the other household pets, and he is the most loyal and lovable companion. This handsome boy will make an enviable addition to a very lucky household!

Dansby's adoption fee is $400 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.

Dansby's ideal home would be a household with prior GSD experience (preferably with a playful dog buddy). While adorable, GSD teens require patience, structure, positive reinforcement, and redirection to channel their energy in appropriate ways. Like all German Shepherd teens, Dansby will need training, consistency, boundaries, and lots of activity and socialization.