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.

Buffy is a 4-year-old German Shepherd who came to us from a rescue partner in California during the forest fires. While she wasn’t directly affected by the fires, we welcomed her and four other dogs to help make space for dogs in immediate danger. Now she’s ready to find a forever home of her own.

Buffy is a smart and observant girl who takes her time getting to know new people and environments. She prefers to assess things before jumping in—but once she feels safe, she’s affectionate, loyal, and full of love. She enjoys gentle pets, ear scratches, and especially lounging in the yard with her favorite stuffed toys by her side.

She walks beautifully on a leash and is a dream travel companion in the car. Buffy is also kennel-trained and finds comfort in her crate when people are home. If she’s alone in the house, she prefers to be out of the crate—and she’s proven to be totally trustworthy when given that freedom. 

Buffy hasn’t been tested with cats, but we suspect she may be prone to chasing them. She does well with calm dogs and could live happily with or without another canine companion. Because of her thoughtful and sensitive nature, Buffy would thrive in a home with adults or older kids. Loud environments or very young children can make her uneasy. 

If you’re looking for a sweet, loyal, and mellow companion who loves to relax and take in the world by your side, Buffy might just be your perfect match.

Like all GSDs, and other herding breeds that we have in rescue, Buffy will need training, consistency, boundaries, and lots of activity and socialization, in order to be a well-balanced, well-behaved dog. This sweet lady would make a great addition to a calm home that will provide the love, structure, good leadership, activity and mental stimulation that he needs. Because of that, Buffy's  ideal owner will have prior 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.