pretty pup!
awsome that you decided to go the adopt route!
lots of experiance w germans here, including vet tech classes/trainer/ previous owner & shelter worker...
sorry to say that I agree with the shelters decidion. alot of shelter pups end up back at shelters, so they have VERY strick guidlines to follow the stat show less of a chance for pups to return,
also they dont know you so the chance (in their eyes) of a dog living out side only, of becoming neglected is large.
sorry it didnt work out for you
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you'll find another lucky pup to give a home to ~best of luck