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.

Duke is a very sweet and playful boy, but can be quite shy at first. He is potty trained and loves his kennel for security.  Duke does well with the resident dogs in his foster home (a German Shepherd and a Westie). He loves playing with the resident dogs inside the house and out in the yard, they have a lot of fun! Duke knows “sit” and “shake.” He is also pretty good with his release word of “break” before eating or going outside to the back yard when the door is opened.  Duke loves to go on walks and loves squeaky toys and his chew bone. His ears are “endearing” as everyone who meets him says. He is a very lovable boy, cautious, but eager to please and learn new things! Duke would do best in a home with a playful, well-balanced dog buddy, that will help him gain confidence.  Duke loves to take agility classes with his awesome foster mom. In fact, these have really helped come out of his shell and gain confidence! Duke is looking for an active, patient, experienced owner who will not rush him, and who will allow plenty of time as he adjusts to his new home, while continuing to provide gentle, patient training and socialization. 

Duke's adoption fee is $350, all of which goes back into offsetting 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.