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.

Luca is affectionate, very smart, and knows all the basic commands. He is very people-oriented and loyal, and likes to stick close to his humans! Luca would do well either with another friendly, playful dog (Luca is very playful), or as an only dog. Luca is well-behaved in and out of the house. He is a delightful companion at home, loves to go for walks, and as soon as he warms up, he loves being out and about and meeting new people. While he can be a little unsure at first in new situations, Luca does great around people, loves going places (patios, dog-friendly stores, dog-friendly events), and gets a little more confident every day. Luca is a wonderful boy who loves people (including kids), other dogs, and LOVES to go to doggy daycare! He would make a wonderful, active companion for a very lucky adopter.

Luca's adoption fee is $275, all of which goes back into offseting our high-cost vetting expenses and rescuing more dogs. Adoption fees include spay/neuter, current on age-appropriate vaccinations, fecal, deworming, flea/tick and heartworm preventative, heartworm tested if old enough (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.