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.

We rescued Mocha and six other "littles" from a commercial breeding operation. All miniature Poodles, Shi-Tzus and Yorkies in this group are very sweet, a little shy, and so smart. They have all been learning about indoor life, how to go up and down stairs, potty training, and living with loving foster families. There have been lots of "firsts" for these pups like being groomed, going for walks, getting a pup cup, and they have been thriving and loving their new lives! 

Mocha is a 1.5-year-old Shih Tzu with the sweetest mix of curiosity and cuddles. This little lady loves nothing more than snuggling up with her favorite person after a day of exploring her surroundings. She’s got a playful side too—squeaky toys are her absolute favorite! Mocha is a bit of a bossy girl (she likes things her way!) and can be nervous in new situations. She’s especially apprehensive around other dogs and young children, so she would do best in a calm, patient home where she can feel safe and loved. With a gentle hand and some reassurance, Mocha will blossom into the loyal, affectionate companion she’s meant to be.

The adoption fee for Mocha is $450, all of which goes back into offseting 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.

Like any of our dogs, Mocha would make a great addition to an active home that will provide the love, structure, good leadership, regular grooming, activity and mental stimulation that her breed needs. 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.