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.

When we arrived at the shelter to pick up some tiny puppies, we were dismayed to find out that their young kennelmate who had been cuddling and comforting them (Garth), was also on that day's kill list due to a minor illness (an upper respiratory infection), but mostly, due to lack of space at the shelter. The shelter volunteers begged us to help this sweet boy who was "a perfect angel with the puppies he was kenneled with, and wiggly and social every time" anyone approached his kennel. We were able to make it happen, and that is how sweet Garth came to be with us! 

Garth is approximately 7 months old, and he is the sweetest boy! He LOVES to snuggle! He's gentle, quiet, and rarely barks. He's very affectionate, and likes to curl up and take a nap on the rugs or in the dog bed. He’s GREAT on a leash and is very trainable! Garth loves attention and being petted, but he is also just content laying by your side. He loves to play fetch and gnaw on his chew toys and bones. And he plays very nicely with other dogs. Garth playstyle is pretty chill: he likes to run, play keep-away, and play chase... for a bit, then he's good for while! His foster dad tell us that Garth "likes to snooze under the table, like a polar bear in a cave".

Garth is a friendly, gentle, sociable boy who likes people and is great with kids. He is incredibly sweet, and very laid-back for a puppy. He's a very mellow guy who just likes to hang out with you! 

Garth's adoption fee is $395, 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.