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.
Ryka is a very sweet 6 month-old pup who's shy but warms up quickly. Her and her sister Renley (who is thriving in a different foster home) came in rescue a few days ago. This little family was living outside on a chain with mom. Sadly, only the puppies were allowed to come in rescue. They are as sweet as can be, smart as a whip, learning everything so fast, and loving being part of the family in their foster homes!
Ryka is a stunning young shepherd with striking markings and sparkly eyes that hint at her playful, lovable personality. She’s a sweet, snuggly girl who will gently rest her paw on you just to say, “I love you.” She loves playing with her foster brother, chewing on bones, and tugging on ropes — and she’s always up for some fun! She’s also a big fan of water. While she hasn’t swam yet, she enjoys dipping her paws and is learning that water bowls aren’t for digging. Ryka is doing great with potty-training, sleeps through the night in her kennel, and is working on polite greetings. Like any puppy, she has her silly moments (yes, she thinks remotes are toys), but her charm and sweetness make it impossible not to love her! If you’re looking for a loyal, joyful companion who’s full of love and fun, Ryka just might be your perfect match.
Like any of our dogs, this sweetheart would make a great addition to an active home that will provide love, structure, good leadership, activity and mental stimulation. Because of that, Ryka's ideal owner will have prior experience and a playful dog buddy her size for Ryka. 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.
Ryka's adoption fee is $395, all of which goes back into offsetting our high-cost vetting expenses and rescuing more dogs. We are a 100% volunteer-run rescue group and rely on adoption fees and donations to continue saving lives. Adoption fees include spay/neuter, current on age-appropriate vaccinations, fecal, deworming, flea/tick and heartworm preventative, heartworm tested if old enough (and 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.
More about Ryka
Good with Dogs, Good with Kids
Please review the information in the "About Us", "Important Considerations" and "Adopt" sections on our website menu, as it contains useful information about the breed, adoption fees, the adoption process and our requirements, and how meeting the dogs works.
Other Pictures of Ryka (click to see larger version):
Currently we do not know if Ryka will be able to attend the event, HUGS at Petsmart on Saturday, June 14th, 2025.
Currently we do not know if Ryka will be able to attend the event, Ribs for Rescues on Sunday, June 15th, 2025.
