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.

Finn is a tiny, adorable 8 week old puppy who appears to be a GSD/Siberian Husky mix. He is friendly, sociable, very playful, and is doing great in his foster home with other dogs and cats. Finn is just a baby and like all puppies, he will need patient parents who can provide good supervision as he continues to learn potty-training, crate-training, to use his sharp puppy teeth on appropriate objects, and all the important things that puppies need to learn :)

Like any of our dogs, this sweetie pie boy would make a great addition to an active home that will provide the love, structure, good leadership, activity and mental stimulation that his breed needs. Because of that, Finn's ideal owner will have prior GSD, Husky, or other herding breed experience, and a friendly dog buddy for Finn. 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.