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.

Henry has done well in his crate. He settles down nicely and lays down when he comes inside. He’s excited to meet every new strange dog. He does like to jump while playing with other dogs. He's a favorite at doggy daycare! He will whine when he wants out to go potty and he gets outside breaks often. He loves toys and things to chew on. His foster says he de-stuffed a squeak dog toy in the yard and it was adorable- he layed on his back and held it up in his paws like he was holding up a baby. He will try and play with anything that is around him. He’s a good eater and will gobble up anyone else's food if given the chance. He is gentle with humans and other dogs, and good with kids.

He needs improvement and could use additional training when it comes to his leash manners. Henry gets excited and can pull when there are so many new sniffs to be sniffed. He’s so smart so should pick up on leash training the more he works on it. His primary motivations are playing with other dogs first, then treats. He’s still getting to know his fosters, but still rubs up for affection. He is super sweet once he warms up and loves snuggles.

Henry's adoption fee is $350, all of which goes back into offseting our high-cost vetting expenses and rescuing more dogs.  We are a 100% volunteer-run rescue group and rely on adoption fees and donations to continue saving lives. Adoption fees include spay/neuter, current on age- appropriate vaccinations, fecal, deworming, flea/tick and heartworm preventative, heartworm tested if old enough (and treated if positive), and microchipped. Please visit http://heartlandgsrescue.rescuegroups.org/info/adoption for more information about our adoption process and requirements, and to apply.

Like all Australian Cattle Dogs, GSDs, and other herding breeds that we have in rescue, Henry will need training, consistency, boundaries, and lots of activity and socialization, in order to be a well-balanced, well-behaved dog. This sweet boy would make a great addition to an active home that will provide the love, structure, good leadership, activity and mental stimulation that he needs. Because of that, Henry's ideal owner will have prior Australian Cattle Dog, GSD, or other similar breed experience. 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 provide sufficient stimulation, ward off boredom, and work on leash skills and manners.