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.

Austin is an adorable, very sweet 3.5 month old puppy who was sick and running out of time at the shelter. Austin is fully recovered and has been thriving in his foster home. This adorable little nugget is ready for a forever home of his own!

Austin is a smart, curious, playful, and very affectionate puppy. He loves playing with other dogs, (play-wrestling, and tug-of-war with a stuffed animal are favorite games!). He loves chasing balls and chewing on bones. Austin has learned to both eat and take naps in his crate, and is fine with being crated for short time periods as long as his foster sisters are also in their crates next to his. Austin is doing great with potty-training! He knows that he should potty outside and although he isn't vocal about it, he will go to the door and wait when he needs to go. Lately he's been sleeping almost all the way through the night! Austin is very smart and food motivated. He already knows "sit" and loves getting treats, especially peanut butter. Austin is pretty calm for a puppy, as well as very sweet and affectionate. However, like most puppies, he will also play pretty hard! Austin is learning not to mouth his people with his sharp little puppy teeth. When Austin naps, he makes the most adorable little puppy noises. Austin is a velcro puppy. Even if he is napping, when foster mom leaves the room, he will get up to follow her, and will lay down to nap wherever she is. This sweet, adorable boy is very people-oriented and would love to be with pet parents who are home a lot! We do not know what Austin is mixed with, but due to the fact he's only 15 lbs at 3.5 months old, we suspect he will be small/medium-sized when fully grown.