Meeko is a stunning German Shepherd male around 16-18 months old. Meeko was originally purchased from a breeder, but crossed many hands, leaving him immediately distrustful of people. Meeko has the potential to be an amazing dog but is in need of a dedicated and experienced owner. Meeko was not socialized for the first year of life and requires time and patience to warm up to new people. He is automatically distrustful of new people and prefers to keep his distance if he doesn't know you. When Meeko does warm up though he is a extremely closely bonded dog. He doesn't understand his role though and will try to quickly step into a protector role without knowing what or who to protect 'his person' from. This has resulted in Meeko becoming overly protective and reactive in an environment where he has been allowed to assume this role. This is not an issue with his foster family as they quickly establish that behavior such as barking or being reactive is not tolerated and he isn't the protector of the family. Meeko will need dedicated training and firm boundaries to overcome this in an adoptive home. Meeko has been around other dogs and does well but is socially awkward with no understanding of play time. He has started to explore this a bit more with his fellow foster dogs and is improving daily. Meeko really wants to learn how to play and has some very patient foster friends helping him out. Meeko does have a very high pray drive that makes him unsuitable for a house with cats or small dogs. Meeko is a very loving and goofy boy in a relaxed environment. He loves to play with toys and is a very active young boy. Meeko is searching for an experienced shepherd owner who will help him overcome his fears and lack of socialization so he can grow into the wonderful dog he hopes to be. If you have any questions about Meeko, or would like an adoption application, please email Tierhavenrescue@aol.com.