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.

Luna is an adorable approximately 4 month old girl who was 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. In fact, Luna came to us sick with Parvo, and within a few days of arriving, she was fighting for her life. She required hospitalization with fluids, antibiotics, and lots of TLC in her foster care, while she fought and later recovered from the virus. Luna is one of the fortunate pups who can say she beat Parvo! She has been thriving in her foster home. She is fully recovered, full of energy and playfulness :). Luna will be available for adoption after Jan 6th, when she gets her next set of shots.

Luna is a little shy in the beginning, but each day she gains more confidence. She's very alert, and wants everyone to know when someone is at the door. Luna loves her foster siblings and enjoys following them around the house. Luna is still learning how to play and has discovered her rope and ball so far, but her favorite game is stealing her foster sister's toys and playing chase with them. So far she is not a big fan of the cold and would happily spend the better part of the day laying on a blanket in the sun. Luna is a people dog and enjoys being a shadow to her foster family, especially when they have food ;). 

Luna is a bit of an old soul: very observant and curious, but also very calm. She's smart as can be and is already learning how to sit on command (especially if chicken is involved) and whines to go outside. She sleeps over 6 hours at night and has mastered nighttime potty training. She does great in her kennel and enjoys car trips as long as someone is giving her a belly rub.

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