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.

Blossom is a sweet 2.5 month-old girl who was came into rescue with her mom, Trinity and a litter of 7 puppies. This adorable furry family was very lucky to come into rescue when it did, as they were loaded with parasites, and extremely undernourished. We are so glad that we were able to bring Trinity and her puppies to safety, so that they can now experience life as beloved family pets.

Blossom is amazingly adorable, curious, and lovable. She likes to follow around her human and animal friends but she adores her toys more than anything else! She is often caught with a bunch of toys that she has collected and hidden in tiny spaces. She likes to play but she is also totally comfortable entertaining herself (especially in the backyard kiddie pool, she is a total water baby!). She would do well on her own or in home with other dogs. She has been doing great with potty training. She has not yet been introduced to a crate but she does an excellent job in her pen and sleeps all through the night. She loves to start bark offs with the neighborhood dogs but if you get her attention she is easily redirected. She is a very laid back pup and often acts like a tiny adult dog! She enjoys belly rubs and hanging out on the couch with her foster parents. She gets along very well with cats, and other animals.

Like all German Shepherd Dogs, Australian Cattle Dogs, and other herding breed mixes that we have in rescue, Blossom will need training, consistency, boundaries, and lots of activity and socialization, in order to become a well-balanced, well-behaved dog.

Reminder: 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 work on his/her leash skills, manners, and social skills.