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.

Bruno is an adorable approx 4 month-old pup whom we rescued from a reservation in SD. Reservation dogs lead a very hard life, with no shelter, little food, and no vet care. Many of them die young due to accidents, deprivation, and/or sickness among other causes. Bruno is very lucky to have made it into rescue, and we are very glad that we were able to help him!

Life on the Reservation is very tough. Bruno came to us with a puncture wound on his leg, and a large abscess on his face. He has been treated and he is well on the mend :). Bruno is loving life in his awesome foster home where he gets plenty of love, TLC, and yummy food. For the first time in his life, he is enjoying comfort, safety, and security, and he is thriving. 

Bruno is outgoing, he loves to play with toys, chew on bones. He is doing great with his potty-training. Like all puppies, he has tons of energy and playfulness. He is working on not mouthing. He is doing well with "sit" most of the time. Bruno is a very sweet boy who will make someone a very happy pet parent.

Like all German Shepherd and German Shepherd mix puppies, Bruno will need training, consistency, boundaries, and lots of activity and socialization, in order to become a well-balanced, well-behaved dog.