More about Cole aka Orange Collar

Cole is a perceptive, gentle 11-week-old German Shepherd puppy with a calm presence and an old-soul sweetness. With his soft expression and observant nature, he carefully studies the world before stepping into it — and when he does, he moves forward with quiet confidence. More reserved and cautious than some of his siblings, Cole prefers to observe first and engage second. He's laid-back and may be a bit aloof with strangers at first, but once he feels safe, his affectionate, tender personality shines through. His fosters describe him as sensitive, intelligent, and observant. Cole is doing well with potty training and has made wonderful progress with clicker training. He is crate-trained, has a healthy appetite, and thrives on structure and predictability. He's learning stairs, taking car rides, practicing household manners, and steadily building confidence through positive experiences. Cole loves to be outdoors, enjoys playing with balls, and adores his littermate, Carlee. They're living with two mature resident dogs and have been exposed to horses and donkeys. Cole and Carlee are part of a litter of seven puppies (6 girls and 1 boy) we welcomed into our care at six weeks of age. All of them had upper respiratory infections and had already been receiving doxycycline at the shelter. Each puppy required a second round of antibiotics after the initial seven-day treatment. Fortunately, they were spared from strep zoo during their stay at the shelter, despite their compromised immune systems due to the respiratory infections. As a preventive measure, they also received an antibiotic shot because the shelter had closed due to a strep zoo outbreak. We held our breath for 10 days and were relieved when none of the puppies showed signs of strep zoo, ensuring the safety of our resident dogs as well. The puppies were placed in pairs in foster homes, and each puppy has received check-ups, boosters, deworming, and preventive care at the vet. When the entire litter arrived, they were fully weaned and happily enjoying softened kibble mixed with canned food, which is typical for 6-week-olds. Despite having runny noses and congestion from the upper respiratory infection, their appetites remained strong. They were happy, brave pups with outgoing, social personalities. Thanks to the dedicated shelter staff and volunteers, the puppies received excellent care during their time at the shelter, where they grew and weaned from their mother before arriving in our care. The mother has since been adopted through the shelter.Cole, easily identifiable by his orange collar and slightly darker tan eyebrows, is the more sensitive of his littermates, compared to his strong-minded, assertive littermates, all girls. He's receiving extra love and attention to help him build confidence.We are seeking homes that have experience with German Shepherds and can offer the time and resources needed for training, positive environmental exposure, and the structure these dogs require to thrive and become well-balanced companions. Please note that we do not adopt out littermates together. Have you seen our YouTube channel? We'd love your support—please subscribe, like, and comment on our videos featuring our adoptable shepherds. You can also follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and our new Threads account for more updates and news about our shepherds.As a foster-based rescue, ShepHeroes always needs more foster families. So many shepherds in our local shelters are waiting for a fresh start. Would you open your home and your heart to help a shepherd find a new family? You provide the love, and we'll take care of the rest. Saying yes today truly saves a life. Fill out our foster form at https://www.shepheroes.org/foster-form, and we'll get in touch soon. Thank you for considering it.