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.

Meet Bodie, a sweet, handsome, playful young boy! He is 1 year old and full of life! He loves hanging out on the deck/being outside, going for walks/runs, swimming, and is learning to enjoy car rides! Bodie also loves to play ball, in any way-shape-or form! He loves all people, but like many shepherds, is a little barky around new dogs because he is a teen, and gets a little excited. However, Bodie LOVES other dogs. In fact, Bodie really enjoys going to doggy daycare and is a favorite there! He gets along with dogs of all sizes and is in a foster home with a playful German Shepherd and a little Yorkie. Bodie loves to play, so would do best in a home with at least another active, playful dog his size. However, he would also do well as an only dog. There are no cats in Bodie's foster home, however, we were told that he used to live with cats in his prior home.

Bodie loves to be a part of everything that's going on with his humans, and is very treat/food motivated! He knows how to sit, stay, shake, lay down, and what "NO" means (he's a quick learner). Bodie is still getting used to some new things and noises, and currently doesn't like the vacuum! He is crate-trained (sleeps without a peep through the night) and is potty-trained. Bodie is a big boy, and he has a tendency to approach things with typical youthful enthusiasm and exhuberance. Bodie is extremely sweet, smart, loving, wants to please, and will make a great addition to a very lucky family. He is a sweet, gentle, cuddly giant when it comes to being affectionate!

This is what Bodie's foster mom had to say about this sweet boy: "When I first met Bodie, I wasn't sure what to expect. I heard he was high energy, not very well trained, and just A LOT to handle! He was also my first male foster, and having a male GSD at home, I wasn't sure how two boys under one roof was going to go! I have to tell you, Bodie has been our best foster yet. Although I love all my fosters, he gets along so well with my male GSD and my 11 year old Yorkie. He isn't overly energetic, as long as he gets the exercise he needs. He LOVES other dogs and is not territorial about food, toys, or attention. He plays well, shares toys, and knows when it's time to be quiet and relax. He is very smart and picks up on training very easily! He is food motivated which really helps! He is the biggest cuddlier ever! I will be working from home at my desk and he will come up and nose my arm off the mouse to tell me he wants some pets. He then will lay his head right on my lap! In the morning, he will get out of his kennel, stretch, put his two front paws on the edge of the bed, and snuggle his head next to mine to tell me it's time to get up! No need for an alarm clock! He is truly the sweetest boy ever! My GSD is a sweetheart but not much for affection, but Bodie will show you so much love! Honestly, if I didn't already have a full house, I would love to adopt Bodie, but I know I can't give him all the attention he needs. I can't wait for him to find his forever family who can love him in the same way he loves his humans! He is a gentle giant who loves to play, cuddle, and enjoy life! I know he is going to make a family someday so incredibly happy!"

Like any of our dogs, this gorgeous boy would make a great addition to an active home that will provide the love, structure, good leadership, activity and mental stimulation that his breed needs. Because of that, Bodie's ideal owner will have prior GSD or other herding breed experience. 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 provide sufficient stimulation, ward off boredom, and work on leash skills, and manners.