1220 Heidi - German Shepherd Dog Dog for Adoption in Ringwood, Illinois

Heidi is fostered in St Louis, Missouri.

Heidi is a very sweet, female German Shepherd. She is a 4 year old pup, weighing approximately 60 pounds. Heidi's story is that of a true underdog. She is nothing less than impressive having spent the last 3 years in an outdoor kennel with little human interaction. Which is a real shame because Heidi LOVES people! Despite being a German Shepherd and being cooped up for so long, she is a star.

She has learning SO MUCH since coming into foster care and doing very well. She is learning to walk nicely on a leash, proper house manners, and is like a sponge - soaking up all the attention she receives in her foster home. She truly is such an excellent dog. Heidi is in a foster home with several other dogs and cats. She has been a little rough with the cats, so cats that are dog savvy are ideal for her. Here she is with one of her kitty friends in her foster home: https://youtube.com/shorts/WsnRszcM1RA?is=u_kvLOcrC6HO5hSe

On neighborhood walks in the city, the birds and squirrels are triggers. Nothing too serious, she will just pull on the leash and she is VERY strong. Heidi responds to a firm correction by saying her name or the command “Aus.” She has not chewed on or destroyed anything she didn't have permission to. She LOVES her toys. She's still getting used to the concept of toys and playing, so fetch is hit or miss. She can be found tossing toys around during the day when her foster mom is working. She can get real goofy!

Heidi's most valuable thing is YOU. She's not driven by treats, clickers or toys, but total praise. Heidi could use an adopter that would consider some basic obedience training. Due to her size, we feel that she would be best in a home with kids over 12 years of age. She is not crate trained - but instead is gated off - and is house trained, will stand by the door if she needs to go out. She has done well with grooming and car rides. She is very affectionate and loves belly rubs and when she's brave enough – you'll get a kiss!

Heidi needs:


Dog savvy cats
Submissive dog (if another dog in the home)
Children over the age of 12 years
Someone skilled in handling German Shepherds
An active home.


Heidi is spayed, microchipped, up-to-date on all vaccinations and receiving monthly prevention for fleas, ticks and heartworms. She does require a committed adopter who is willing to devote 1 - 2 hours of mental and physical stimulation per day.

NOTE: All of our dogs live in foster homes with volunteers so we need an approved application on file to set up a meet with a dog you might have an interest in. Please visit our website for more information on our adoption process, our adoption fees and a link to our adoption application. We pride ourselves on matches that work for both the dog and your family. MASR is here for your support, advice and safety net for our dogs for the remainder of their lives. www.MidwestAustralianShepherdRescue.org

The German Shepherd Dog, known for its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility, is a popular and highly regarded breed worldwide. This breed excels in various roles such as police work, search and rescue, and assistance for individuals with disabilities. German Shepherd Dogs are strong, agile, and confident with a distinctive double coat that can be straight or wavy. Their character is marked by courage, loyalty, and a strong work ethic, making them ideal companions and protectors for families and professionals alike.

Our mission is to rescue Australian Shepherds and other working breeds from abuse, neglect, strays, and owners in dire need...