Gemma von Gussen is a gorgeous 12 month old German Shepherd -- a wonderfully sweet classic girl who is quite the head turner. She is very easy to walk, never pulling on leash, and walks well next to other dogs after proper introduction. Gemma loves people and lives for head scratches and belly rubs. She is understandably scared in the kennels with so many other dogs, and sometimes barks at passing dogs out of fear. She is not aggressive -- she just needs proper introduction, and does better off leash. Gemma missed out on some dog socialization in her younger months, and we are trying to get her caught up. She would benefit from some additional training, since she is a very sweet and gentle girl who tries to keep up a tough image sometimes. In playgroups, she is a little stiff in the beginning, but never reacts badly. She gets comfortable very quickly and, after a quick sniff of her friendly canine friends, she is happy to hang out with them and explore the yard. Gemma adores her humans and would love to find a nurturing family who would bring out the wonderful social girl inside.