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.

We rescued Peter Pan and four other "Lost Boys" from a commercial breeding situation. All 5 miniature Poodles and Yorkies are very sweet, a little shy, and so smart. They have all been learning about indoor life, how to go up and down stairs, potty training, and living with loving foster families. There have been lots of "firsts" for these pups like being groomed, going for walks, getting a pup cup, and they have been thriving and loving their new lives! 

Peter Pan is an approximately 12-18 months old miniature Poodle who weighs 6 pounds. He would do best with another small dog in the house (we think it helps him feel safe) and older children. Unusual noises and quick movements still scare him. However, he is gaining more and more confidence with each day that passes. He is just starting to play with toys. So cute! He sleeps through the night without any crying or barking. He is working on potty training and is doing well. He is very smart! He's loves running around in the yard, and enjoys dog beds. He is foster mom's little shadow. He also loves following the household dog around and snuggling next to him in a dog bed. Peter Pan might be our smallest full-grown dog, but he has a giant heart full of love to give!

The adoption fee for Peter Pan is $450, 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 any of our dogs, Peter Pan 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. 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.