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 Keia! This adorable 4-year-old pup weighs just 12 pounds and is as sweet as they come. Keia found her way to rescue when her beloved owner had to move into a nursing home, and now she’s ready to find her forever home!

Keia may be a little shy when meeting new people, but give her just a few minutes and her gentle, loving personality shines through. She absolutely adores belly rubs, head scratches, and spending time with her humans. Walks are one of her favorite things, and she also enjoys exploring the yard.

She’s house trained, sleeps soundly through the night, and comes when called. She already knows her name and is eager to please. With her easy-going nature and affectionate heart, Keia would make a wonderful companion for someone looking for a super sweet, loyal, easy-going friend.

If you’re searching for a calm, loving dog to add to your family, Keia might just be your perfect match!

The adoption fee for Keia 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, Keia 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.