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iful 7 year old, 63 pound German Shepherd is loyal, intelligent, and devoted to her people. Once she chooses her person, she’s all in. Whether you’re working from home, relaxing on the couch, heading outside, or even taking a bathroom break, Classy is happiest simply being near you. (Yes… she’s an excellent bathroom buddy and will faithfully wait outside the door until you’re finished!) Classy is fully housebroken, crate trained, and knows commands like sit and down, and she’s making great progress with stay. She’s eager to learn but does have a bit of a mischievous side—especially in the kitchen. If you’re cooking or cutting vegetables, she’ll happily try to “help,” and anytime food is involved, she’s convinced she should be included. Classy has a very strong drive for both balls and treats, which makes training highly effective when using those rewards. She has also been introduced to Schutzhund work and has shown great potential for that type of training. Outside, Classy absolutely comes alive when it’s time to play fetch. During the workday, when her foster mom is at the computer, Classy is very good at reminding her that it’s time to take a break—she’ll bring a ball and place it right in her lap, watching it drop to the floor. If that doesn’t get the message across, she’ll bring another… and another… and another until you finally give in and throw it! That said, she also has a wonderful ability to relax. Many times she’s perfectly content to lounge on the couch, nap in the hallway sunbeams, or quietly keep watch over the street. Classy balances her energy well and settles easily when things are calm, relaxing nearby until it’s time to play again. Classy also takes her job as family protector seriously. She has a deep, intimidating bark that lets you know when someone is outside, but she isn’t a nuisance barker. She settles quickly once she knows everything is okay. On walks, Classy has nice leash manners and responds well to redirection. Even when passing reactive dogs, she is very handler-focused and will refocus with clear guidance. She requires a confident, experienced handler who understands working breeds and can match her loyalty with consistency and commitment, helping her reach her full potential as an exceptional companion. She needs slow introductions to other dogs. Because of her size and enthusiasm, Classy would do best with older children. She enjoys kids but doesn’t always realize how big she is when she’s excited and can accidentally bump into little ones. Classy would do best in a home without cats or chickens. She has a strong prey drive, and moving animals naturally trigger her instinct to chase. She can also be protective of her home and personal space around unfamiliar dogs. While she’s learning appropriate introductions, she’ll do best with an adopter who understands shepherds and is committed to continuing her training. She has shown that she’s very responsive and eager to work with her handler, making her an excellent candidate for continued success. Although Classy has good recall, a 6 foot fenced yard would be ideal. Like many dogs, Classy prefers to eat her meals without being disturbed. She may give a warning growl if someone tries to pet her while she’s eating. Simply giving her space during mealtime is all she asks. Classy’s ideal home is one with a confident adopter who appreciates the intelligence and loyalty of German Shepherds, enjoys continuing structure, does not have cats or chickens, lives with adults or older children and wants a true companion, not just a pet. Classy isn’t looking for just any family—she’s looking for her person. In return, she’ll give you unwavering loyalty, endless games of fetch, a watchful eye over your home, and a best friend who wants nothing more than to spend her life by your side. If you’re looking for a smart, loving, devoted companion who will make every day a little brighter, Classy may just be the missing piece you’ve been searching for. Interested in adding Classy to your family? Contact your adoption coordinator. If you do not yet have an adoption coordinator, please complete an adoption application at .freedomgermanshepherdrescue . Classy is being fostered in Aiken, SC.