Meet Ruger!
Ruger is an energetic, affectionate 8-month-old German Shepherd mix with a loyal heart and a love for being close to his people. He enjoys being part of the action and would thrive with someone who can give him plenty of exercise, attention, and opportunities to learn.
Ruger would love a person who enjoys going for walks, playing fetch, and teaching him fun, challenging games. He is smart, eager to please, and responds well to treats, praise, and positive encouragement.
He is crate trained, housebroken, and knows basic commands. Like many young German Shepherds, Ruger has lots of energy and is still learning how to navigate the world around him. He would benefit from a patient, committed owner who understands the unique needs of the breed and is excited to provide consistent training, structure, and guidance as he grows through his teenage years and into adulthood.
Ruger has so much potential to become a wonderful, devoted companion. He is looking for a loving home where his intelligence, energy, and loyalty will be appreciated—and where someone will enjoy helping him become the very best dog he can be! ❤️
Dog: Primary Breed:
German Shepherd Dog
Birthdate (an estimate is okay):
1/11/2026
Where did you get your pet?:
From a family that had a litter of unplanned puppies
Was this pet ever in a shelter, rescue, or foster program? If yes, please provide details.:
no
Adoption Day (when did you adopt your pet? An estimate is okay.):
March 2026
Size (at full-grown):
Large
Approximate adult weight in pounds (number only):
85
Primary Color:
Black (Mostly)
What are your pet's favorite toys and activities?:
Ruger likes to go on walks and play fetch with an oversized tennis ball. He also loves bully sticks and Yak chews.
Has your dog received any formal obedience training?:
No
What commands does your dog know?:
Sit, down, wait, come
How does your dog react to being left alone for short periods?:
He has no problem. He is crate trained and does not bark when left alone.
Is there a daily routine that works well for your dog (feeding, walking, sleep)?:
He walks on a leash when going outside. He eats in the morning and is able to have food in his bowl without over eating. He sleeps at night in his crate.
Medical History and Care:
Vaccinations up to date
Spayed or Neutered
House/Litter-Trained
Microchipped
Special Diet
Special Needs
Does your pet have any history of health issues or medical conditions that potential adopters should be aware of?:
He does not tolerate chicken in his food or treats. He is currently eating Lamb large breed puppy food.
Has your dog ever shown any challenging behaviors, such as biting a person or another pet? If so, please share some context.:
He has not bitten anyone. He is very mouthy and we have not been able to keep him from jumping on people.
How often does your dog require grooming (e.g., bathing, brushing, trimming)? :
He is bathed as needed and as he gets his adult coat, will require brushing. He has had his toenails trimmed, but mostly keeps them worn down with walking.
Does your dog have a dental care routine (e.g., brushing, chews, professional cleanings)?:
He loves chews.
Personality:
Playful
Constant Companion
High Energy
Medium Energy
Low Energy
Timid
Friendly to Strangers
Good with Other Dogs
Good with Cats
Good with Young Children
Bonded Pair
Purebred
Crate Trained
Comes When Called
Needs Training
Likes Car Rides
Likes to Swim
Requires A Fenced Yard
Jumps Fences
Growls at Strangers
Is Afraid of Storms
Digs
How is your dog with children?:
Not sure: Haven't had enough interaction with children to determine.
How is your dog with other dogs?:
Friendly: Generally gets along well with other dogs.
How is your dog with cats?:
Not sure: Haven't had enough interaction to determine.
What's the most endearing thing about your dog?:
He is very loyal and wants to be where you are.
What criteria are important to you when considering an adoptive family or home for your pet?:
We would like someone who understands the German Shepherd breed and is able to give him the type of training that he needs with a strong routine. He is easily overstimulated and needs someone who can help him settle. When overstimulated, he does growl and jump and is mouthy.
Is there anything else you'd like your pet's new family to know?:
Ruger has shown himself to be very trainable.
Why are you rehoming your pet (primary reason)?:
Pet Behavior
Details about rehoming reason (if needed):
We both work full time and are not able to give him the consistency, schedule, routine and work that he needs as a German Shepherd Mix.
If applicable, do you have the legal right or necessary permission from the breeder or rescue organization to rehome this pet? :
How long will you be able to keep your pet before you may need to consider surrendering him or her to a rescue?:
Two weeks
Who is your veterinarian?:
SouthKent Veterinary Hospital
What do you feed your pet, and does he/she have any feeding quirks or preferences?:
He eats Diamond Naturals Lamb Large breed puppy food. He does better when he does not eat chicken
Do you currently have pet insurance?:
No
Would you consider a long-distance adoption?:
City, State:
Sand Lake, Michigan
How did you hear about us?:
Rescue/Shelter
Referring Name (person, page, or organization, if applicable):
West Michigan Humane Society Page
Service Level:
Courtesy Listing: Self-Managed (Free)
