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.

Beautiful Gia is a 7 year old Sweetheart! She is a typical German Shepherd who loves her family and picks someone special to follow around and adore. Gia is pretty chill and is happy as long as she is with her peeps. She was introduced to napping on dog beds and couches once she came into rescue and thinks they are super comfy. She’s good with kids and other dogs (we don't know about cats), is a breeze to walk on a leash and is not reactive at all to other dogs on her walks. Gia loves car rides, is potty trained and although she doesn’t love her kennel, she settles down nicely in it after a minute. The perfect watch dog, she will bark to alert you if the doorbell rings but graciously greets guests once she can see that you are comfortable. Gia came into rescue with some additional Holiday weight, so she will need to continue to watch her portion sizes (and her sensitive stomach doesn’t handle human food well) to make sure she slims down just a bit for swimsuit season. As a senior, Gia takes joint supplements to make sure she stays comfortable with her knees and hips, and pain meds. She has quite a bit of pep in her step during walks and bunny hops up the stairs for a bedtime treat (which she will gently and politely take from you). If you are looking for an easy-going, sweet and fuzzy companion that will make sure you never have to be in the bathroom by yourself again, Gia is your girl. Gia is a very sociable girl who craves companionship. Her ideal parents will be home a lot, and will have a dog buddy for her. 

Gia's adoption fee is $225, 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. Please visit http://heartlandgsrescue.rescuegroups.org/info/adoption for more information about our adoption process and requirements, and to apply.

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!