Belgian Malinois owners...please step in I have some questions.

[Casual Friday]

We live in a rural area, and our little neighborhood area has had a lot of break ins and property crime since January. I've decided to get a dog as a first line of defense. My wife and I aren't pet people, my wife had pets growing up but I've never owned anything but Gold Fish so this will be totally uncharted territory for me. I think I've decided on a Belgian Malinois. I've heard they are very loyal, kid friendly dogs and good protectors.

My question is to people here that own them or have in the past, how are they with kids? I'm not just worried about my own, but we have other kids at our house pretty regularly. Are they comfortable around adult "strangers" that come over to visit once they see their owners are comfortable with them being there? I've known people who had dogs that were constantly on edge with anyone around who isn't the immediate family and I want to avoid that. I don't want friends and family to avoid coming over because of a dog they are unsure of, and I don't want to kennel one up every time we have guests, but I do want it to be a protector. Are my wants and desires in a dog incompatible? I hope these don't seem like stupid noob questions but I really have no experience with dogs of any kind other than other peoples pets. Thanks.

[Peally]

While certain breeds have certain dispositions, attitudes, and actions towards all other living things is really up to the individual dog and the socialization it got while it was young.

I highly recommend grabbing Barron's Dog Training Bible from a local Barne's and Noble or Amazon, when first getting into understanding dogs I found it extremely helpful to get a foundation in the basics. If you're starting from scratch the dog will basically be a direct representation of the time you put into it, but keep in mind that all herding dog breeds (the Malinois, Aussie Cattle dog, German Shepherd, etc) are all naturally inclined to be defensive of their territory to some degree. That being said you can find a highly trained and proper German Shepherd, a violent neurotic one, and a giant cuddle machine all depending on the individual's personality and upbringing.

I really hate to say "it depends" but I hope that helps give a little general direction.

[Shellback]

Sample of one, but as a current owner of a Mal, I would say that our dog encompasses everything you want. Fiercely loyal, extremely protective, very affectionate with known family & friends. He's often used as a punching bag, a horse, a wrestling partner, etc. and is extremely patient with our crazy boys. He does very well with friends and family, after being introduced, and reacts to other children the same way as ours.

http://i57.tinypic.com/2pzwk5j.jpg

[LittleLebowski]

Patient and protective. Chance of being overprotective with other dogs and people. Irish and I have tons of pics if you need those posted :D

[Casual Friday]

I would love a bunch of pics posted in this thread. Did you guys get puppies or ones that were a little older? Since we have never had a dog, I'm thinking a puppy would be a good way to break the ice with my two daughters, who are a bit apprehensive around dogs. That way they can get used to it when it's small and as it grows bigger.

[Nephrology]

Patient and protective. Chance of being overprotective with other dogs and people. Irish and I have tons of pics if you need those posted :D

um...obviously we need more pics posted.

[Coyotesfan97]

Here's a video of a high drive Belgian Malinois pup named Endy. You'll see he a ball of fire who is full of energy. You might want to consider adopting an older Mal or going with a German Shepherd. If you get a Mal pup get the exercise pen. ;)

http://youtu.be/yXqNl5bTCMU

[Surf]

I have had hunting and protection dogs all of my life. My Mal is now 9 years old. Extremely smart, intense drive, insanely loyal. Loves my family, but when dad is around, he really wants to direct his attention towards me. Hands down the best protection / family oriented dog I have ever had. He is more than just a family pet as he has a definite job and his training revolves around that. He understands his role and he does it extremely well and it also makes him happy. He is a family pet, but I do incorporate much of a working dog vibe into his everyday lifestyle.

As mentioned by Peally dogs are often more of a product of their upbringing or socialization. Having said that, I generally don't suggest a Malinois as a family pet, or as a first dog for a new owner. It can work, but they need a very Alpha owner and they need to work. The owners need to be able to spend a lot of time with the dog and give them things to do, as in training. They learn fast and thrive when given tasks. If they are not challenged and exercised they can get naughty, disobedient and can nip.

The personality and drive of a mal generally lends to them not as readily accepting of an Alpha. You must make that clear quickly, which is easy enough but you must also train the dog to accept your kids and family as an extension of you, the alpha. This is often hard to do with an intensely driven Malinois as they will want to come into the hierarchy of the family right after the alpha as the #2 and often look at the family as subordinates. This can lead to nipping in the dog world, especially in regards to children. This must be shut down immediately if the dog shows these tendencies.

Again, I know a lot of people that own mals as pets and I don't mean to make it sound like a tough task, just trying to be informative and up front about the breed. It is the drive in the individual dog and how the dog is socialized but they can be a challenging breed, but when raised right they are great dogs obviously as a working animal, but as a family pet also.

Here is a couple pics of my Mal and a video. He was imported and I got him when he was about 20 months old. He is a family pet, but is protection trained and does article search work. His training is ongoing and he is extremely smart. Show him something once or twice, drill it a few times and he does it like he has been doing it for years. He is my front line of defense at home. We have been through some scrapes together and he has not let me down. Saved my ass once and I returned the favor. Love this dog to death.

8 years old in this picture
https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/11070530_1596523967228803_25223349407580364_n.jpg? oh=97560908274d239b1bca4ead9e8ded02&oe=557257C7&__gda__=1433995868_041656b23da0c6c5ace62c27d51f29a 0

2.5 years in this video. Early years of training. Obedience and protection top notch at this point and search training ongoing. He will now find just about anything.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OMhWBT1ZVvc&feature=youtu.be

[23JAZ]

Here's a video of a high drive Belgian Malinois pup named Endy. You'll see he a ball of fire who is full of energy. You might want to consider adopting an older Mal or going with a German Shepherd. If you get a Mal pup get the exercise pen. ;)

http://youtu.be/yXqNl5bTCMU

I've never seen anyone enjoy twisted tea so much!

[Peally]

This thread needs more pics and videos :D

As Surf mentioned, don't underestimate the amount of time you'll need to put into the pup, think of it as bringing in a hyper child since that's basically what you're doing. A rescue dog that fits your criteria may be beneficial, coyotesfan's video is a pretty good example of the energy bombs puppies constantly tend to be.

Great dog by the way Surf. Where's the park? Those mountains are absolutely gorgeous

[Casual Friday]

What does "average energy and temperament" for these mean? I've found a couple that are driving distance. http://belgianmalinois.rescueme.org/Washington Serena at the top of the page. I know 6 months is still a puppy, but the vaccinations are current and she's spayed. Crate trained too. Says she's good with kids and adults.

The other one is Venus, and is listed as submissive. Would the submissive dog be a better choice, or the one with average temperament?

[TGS]

I would do some honest self-evaluation of not only your life, but your household's lifestyle as well.....and see if you guys can honestly dedicate not only the time but the effort to owning a Mal.

As others have said, if you cannot the dog will likely become a neurotic dog. A neurotic dog will often bite. Biting dogs usually get euthanized when the owners finally admit they cannot house the dog and give them up.

In short: If you fuck up, the dog will likely be put down. There's a reason they are specifically not recommended for new owners.

[BigDaddy]

There's a reason they call them Maligators.

[ToddG]

I'll be the Debbie Downer and say a Mal is not an awesome choice for your FIRST dog. I've yet to meet a qualified trainer who thinks it's a good starter breed.

If you don't understand what a high drive dog really means, or you don't have a firm grasp on how much socialization (and re-socialization at certain ages) is required, I'd recommend a less demanding breed.

Alternatively, or even regardless of breed, you may want to consider getting a year old professionally trained dog. Puppy months require a ton of attention and effort. While not cheap, you can get a trained, socialized 1yr old that saves you a lot of effort and will bind to you and your family.

Don't get me wrong. Our next dog will be another Mal and we will get her as a pup. I just hate to see someone who doesn't really understand the commitment Mals require get one because they're sort of the "in" dog of choice right now.

The breed I like to recommend is the Rhodesian Ridgeback (with thanks to Dave Armstrong for recommending the breed to me 15 years ago). They're big, powerful, protective, but not as demanding as puppies or adults.

YMMV.

[JM Campbell]

Agreed on the r-back. My r-back mix with some kind of mastiff (rescue dog) is very gentle with children of any age and very loving of family members. Rarely barks and when she does there is always something there. At about 97lbs she is a tank and most people give her a very wide path.

[David S.]

I had a roommate with a couple years ago with a Rhodesian Ridgeback. Awesome dog.

[Casual Friday]

I'll be the Debbie Downer and say a Mal is not an awesome choice for your FIRST dog. I've yet to meet a qualified trainer who thinks it's a good starter breed.

If you don't understand what a high drive dog really means, or you don't have a firm grasp on how much socialization (and re-socialization at certain ages) is required, I'd recommend a less demanding breed.

Alternatively, or even regardless of breed, you may want to consider getting a year old professionally trained dog. Puppy months require a ton of attention and effort. While not cheap, you can get a trained, socialized 1yr old that saves you a lot of effort and will bind to you and your family.

Don't get me wrong. Our next dog will be another Mal and we will get her as a pup. I just hate to see someone who doesn't really understand the commitment Mals require get one because they're sort of the "in" dog of choice right now.

The breed I like to recommend is the Rhodesian Ridgeback (with thanks to Dave Armstrong for recommending the breed to me 15 years ago). They're big, powerful, protective, but not as demanding as puppies or adults.

YMMV.

I'm not locked into any particular breed, I didn't even know they were the "it" thing right now. I appreciate the honest advice in this thread from those with experience with them.

[Coyotesfan97]

I would like a Ridgeback. The ones I've met have been great dogs. Any dog that as bred to hunt Lions and be gentle enough to protect kids are just awesome. Ridge backs protected a lot of Rhodesians homes against terrorists.


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[Casual Friday]

I've also located a Rhodesian Ridgeback/Lab/American Staffordshire mix at a local shelter that I wouldn't mind going and taking a look at.

[Shellback]

We got our guy from a local K-9 trainer, he's protection trained, when he was 4 years old. We've had him for about 3 years now and he's an exceptional guard dog and his temperament is perfect for little humans. He does need a firm Alpha and would get himself into trouble without proper guidance.

Another breed I would recommend is a Boxer. We've had one, have several friends who have them, and they've all been exceptional family dogs who are very friendly, happy, energetic and protective as well.

[UNK]

I bought a trained Mal my first protection dog. I also got a years worth of training after purchase, which was actually for me not the dog. Without that training...I don't think I would do it.
Also the guy I bought her from...he picked her based on my needs. I told him I liked the looks of another dog better, and he told me, "It's your money....I'll sell you any dog you want, but based on what you told me, this one here is the dog that will best work for you.
He was absolutely correct she is a great dog for us.
And I'll add one more thing, I spent an hour every morning for the first six months I had her 30 min of flat out running chasing a glow in the dark ball launched from a chuckit then 30 min working on obedience. Then I took her to class every Saturday I could.
It is a huge time commitment. There is a lot to learn.

[SeriousStudent]

Casual friday - if you are near Texas, I know an excellent Rhodesian Ridgeback rescue organization. They do an terrific job matching a dog's temperament to a prospective owner.

My best friends have three Ridge's, and they have been a great match for their family with three small children.

I have a GSD rescue that is great at protection, yet friendly around small fry. Chuck Haggard affectionately named him "the Big Hairy Monster." :cool:

[David S.]

.....

[Odin Bravo One]

Concur on not selecting a BM as a first dog. I wouldn't select one unless I had the time to dedicate to provide the dog with the tasks he/she needs in order to be happy.

RR's are great dogs.

I'm partial to Rott's myself, and have had three in my lifetime. They are out of the "Guard" dog cool kid club presently, and not being bred as much specifically for that purpose at most reputable breeders unless you seek a breeder for that purpose. But they will protect their home and their family with or without special training, and have the mass and the ass to take on most two legged vermin.

Neither of my males would have done well with children, but they were not socialized well as puppies. My current female is part big teddy bear and part mini-horse for the toddler. She is great with the neighbor kids and neighbors, though due to lack of socialization with other dogs, not very good at the dog/dog relationships yet.

Training for you, and the dog, regardless of breed is the critical component. A happy dog is one who understands the rules, and has discipline and order in it's life. Read, research, and consider the commitment that comes with being a responsible dog family. I missed the years when I was without a dog companion animal due to schedule of work, and lack of time to provide the home every dog deserves. It is not simply adding another mouth to feed, but requires an adjustment to your lifestyle, and priorities.

Good luck. Hope you find what you are looking for.

[LittleLebowski]

While I do think Mals can be fine family dogs, I'd recommend a GSD or Rott over a Mal for a first time owner. However....GSDs are work as well. I like the Rotts because they have that German engineered protectiveness but don't have as strong of a work drive as a Mal or GSD.

I'll note here my personal observation that a good GSD wants to work hard, play hard, and bite hard like a......Mal.

Any of the above make great family dogs with the usual caveat about age and environment.

[UNK]

One dog that is often not mentioned that might make a fine family protection dog is one of the herding collie/shepherds. those dogs are super smart, loyal and have high levels of aggression when herding. They aren't big enough to bring a man down but they would give you warning and with some training they would bite reliably. The big advantage here is size. They are smaller go anywhere dogs. And they don't project that aura of a working dog. What I think that is realistically needed for an individual, not a LEO, is a dog that can hear someone outside your house, and that will give warning, then train that dog to bite.
I will defer to the opinions of the many more knowledgeable about this subject, as I am by no means a SME on this matter.

[rob_s]

Alternatively, or even regardless of breed, you may want to consider getting a year old professionally trained dog. Puppy months require a ton of attention and effort. While not cheap, you can get a trained, socialized 1yr old that saves you a lot of effort and will bind to you and your family.

Assuming my life continues on it's current track, this is the way I'm going. I don't have the time for *ANY* puppy, right now or in the foreseeable future and would prefer to start with a better base established by someone that does it for a living.

[TGS]

Concur on not selecting a BM as a first dog. I wouldn't select one unless I had the time to dedicate to provide the dog with the tasks he/she needs in order to be happy.

RR's are great dogs.

I'm partial to Rott's myself, and have had three in my lifetime. They are out of the "Guard" dog cool kid club presently, and not being bred as much specifically for that purpose at most reputable breeders unless you seek a breeder for that purpose. But they will protect their home and their family with or without special training, and have the mass and the ass to take on most two legged vermin.

Neither of my males would have done well with children, but they were not socialized well as puppies. My current female is part big teddy bear and part mini-horse for the toddler. She is great with the neighbor kids and neighbors, though due to lack of socialization with other dogs, not very good at the dog/dog relationships yet.

Training for you, and the dog, regardless of breed is the critical component. A happy dog is one who understands the rules, and has discipline and order in it's life. Read, research, and consider the commitment that comes with being a responsible dog family. I missed the years when I was without a dog companion animal due to schedule of work, and lack of time to provide the home every dog deserves. It is not simply adding another mouth to feed, but requires an adjustment to your lifestyle, and priorities.

Good luck. Hope you find what you are looking for.

I agree about Rotts as a suggestion.

Socialize them and do some basic obedience training, nothing crazy. Teach them an "in" position used for punishment and one with a different tone of voice for when someone is at the door. We made Argus's "in" position on the steps right by the door, so he could see who was at the door, be seen by whoever was at the door, and back me up if need be.

While individual to the dog, across the breed they have a natural protection and herding instinct. They're working dogs but dont have an incredible drive like Mals. They tend to be very lazy and chill outside of the times you play with them, or they feel their duty is being called upon. The happiest I've ever seen Argus is when we let him free around goats, and he naturally started herding them regardless of him being a city dog his whole life.

I absolutely love Rotts. Hands down my favorite. I dont have the personality to put up with Mals...way too much effort, both initial and ongoing.

[Casual Friday]

I guess there isn't an easy solution here. I like the idea of buying a year old pretrained dog but my kids are 9 and 5 and have never had a dog so they are a bit nervous around large dogs. Puppies of any kind will be a lot of work. We have almost 2 acres so room to play isn't a problem, and neighbors on both sides have dogs to socialize with. We also entertain here quite a bit so there would be a lot of opportunities for the dog to be around other adults and kids.

I should also add that we are not going this weekend to get a dog either. This is the first step of a long process of choosing the right dog for our needs.

[JTQ]

Chance of being overprotective with other dogs and people.
I've not had a Malinois, but I think this would be a concern with most shepherds, which are higher on the protective scale.

If you are concerned with your abilities to train the dog, a less protective dog may be a better option. For instance, one of the larger breeds from Sporting Group, which as a group are less protective than the Herding Group, with a deep powerful bark, would usually be enough to keep the casual criminal away from your house. Chesapeake Bay Retrievier, German Short Haired Pointer, Weimaraner, etc., may be a better choice.

[UNK]

I've not had a Malinois, but I think this would be a concern with most shepherds, which are higher on the protective scale.

If you are concerned with your abilities to train the dog, a less protective dog may be a better option. For instance, one of the larger breeds from Sporting Group, which as a group are less protective than the Herding Group, with a deep powerful bark, would usually be enough to keep the casual criminal away from your house. Chesapeake Bay Retrievier, German Short Haired Pointer, Weimaraner, etc., may be a better choice.

A homeowner down the street had two labs in his house. Someone came in and burglarized the home...and gave the dogs a roast from the fridge as a treat. I am pretty sure that would never had happened with a trained working dog.
That's what the training is for. To teach you the dog owner how to handle your dog.
I have heard it said that if you just want an alarm buy a small nervous bitch. I don't think I could handle the constant barking. I would just put in a security system if all I wanted was an alarm.

[rob_s]

I have heard it said that if you just want an alarm buy a small nervous bitch. I don't think I could handle the constant barking. I would just put in a security system if all I wanted was an alarm.

that's somewhat of a misconception, that I used to share. My girlfriend has a Shih Tzu, which I always thought of as little tiny ewok yappy dogs, but it turns out I was wrong. He's a "guard dog" in the sense that he's very loyal, always follows around the alpha human of the moment (it kind of pisses off the GF that when I come home he switches from following her around to following me), and always sits with his back to you and his face towards the door (he even follows me into the shitter and sits on my foot while I take a dump). He's not meant to attack, but he will bark and get super agitated if he thinks something is wrong or someone is coming to get you.

[Peally]

People tend to think that small dogs are just furniture for the house, when they need training just as badly as any other dog. Irkes me, I really don't enjoy listening to yippy bark machines.

[TGS]

People tend to think that small dogs are just furniture for the house, when they need training just as badly as any other dog. Irkes me, I really don't enjoy listening to yippy bark machines.

I think this is why I have the perception that small dogs tend to be the worst behaved. In my mind, they're usually owned by people who shouldn't have a dog to begin with; they can just get away with it, as the severity is much higher with a GSD, Mal, RR, Doberman, Rottweiler, et al....where the dog has the power to maul a grown man to death.

Well, given that kids today have metrosexual glimmering vampires as heros instead of real men, we'll likely see Dachshunds slaughtering college age males in 10 years.

[MRW]

I like Malinois but you should try to spend some time with any prospective ones you are going to get. The Malis' I've worked with and been around have a wide range of personalities. Some require a stronger personality than others from their owners. All of the ones I've seen need some form of physical and mental stimulation daily to keep them happy. If you don't have time for some workouts, maybe check out another breed.

If you're looking for a breed loyal to your family and protective, I'll recommend a Chesapeake Bay Retriever. They look like Labs but their personality is completely different. Mine has been great with both my kids. He has let them climb all over him. He is fiercely protective of my family and house but very social with people once he is introduced. In his younger days, he's 12 now, he would have actively defended my home from an intruder. The breed started as a hybrid of Newfoundlands, Labs, and Irish Setters so they don't have a lot of breed-based health problems. They make great waterfowl and even upland bird dogs. Chessies also benefit from regular exercise.

[ranger]

I think this is why I have the perception that small dogs tend to be the worst behaved. In my mind, they're usually owned by people who shouldn't have a dog to begin with; they can just get away with it, as the severity is much higher with a GSD, Mal, RR, Doberman, Rottweiler, et al....where the dog has the power to maul a grown man to death.

Well, given that kids today have metrosexual glimmering vampires as heros instead of real men, we'll likely see Dachshunds slaughtering college age males in 10 years.

We are a Dachshund family now - they are German engineered too and must have attitude to go down a hole after a badger!

[JAD]

One small and uneducated vote for mutts. You can meet them and interview them extensively as adults, they are genetically superior to all but the most carefully bred dogs which benefits both health and temper, and there are a lot of dogs out there.


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[ToddG]

Not a good way to dissuade someone from getting a Mal but cannot help but post:


https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=1188080204548370

[Elkhitman]

Here is a good article I recommend reading if you are thinking about getting a Mal.
https://bayareadogtrainer.wordpress.com/2011/05/16/note-to-the-american-public-belgian-malinois-look-dont-touch/

[ToddG]

Here is a good article I recommend reading if you are thinking about getting a Mal.
https://bayareadogtrainer.wordpress.com/2011/05/16/note-to-the-american-public-belgian-malinois-look-dont-touch/

I think it's good as a scare tactic, but there are far too many of us with pet Mals to go along with the warning and conclusion.

Is it a demanding breed for an owner? Yes.
Is it a bad idea for a first dog? Probably.
Are they bad pets? No.

[LittleLebowski]

http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h251/baxshep/Dogs/IMG_20130620_103747_zpsddda6c44.jpg

http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h251/baxshep/Dogs/IMG_20121111_101311_zpsea0b1fe3.jpg

http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h251/baxshep/Dogs/IMG_20130414_110454_zps244aa742.jpg

http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h251/baxshep/Dogs/IMG_20130113_104107.jpg

http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h251/baxshep/fbad8576.jpg

[Elkhitman]

I think it's good as a scare tactic, but there are far too many of us with pet Mals to go along with the warning and conclusion.

Is it a demanding breed for an owner? Yes.
Is it a bad idea for a first dog? Probably.
Are they bad pets? No.

Take from it what you will. I'm not telling anyone not to get a Mal, I just said it was a good article. Mal's are showing up more and more in the pound because people don't realize what they are getting when they buy one.

[LittleLebowski]

Take from it what you will. I'm not telling anyone not to get a Mal, I just said it was a good article. Mal's are showing up more and more in the pound because people don't realize what they are getting when they buy one.

What pound? I'm seriously curious.

[23JAZ]

http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h251/baxshep/Dogs/IMG_20130620_103747_zpsddda6c44.jpg

http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h251/baxshep/Dogs/IMG_20121111_101311_zpsea0b1fe3.jpg

http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h251/baxshep/Dogs/IMG_20130414_110454_zps244aa742.jpg

http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h251/baxshep/Dogs/IMG_20130113_104107.jpg

http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h251/baxshep/fbad8576.jpg
Are those pics all the same dog?

[Peally]

If it's anything like Aussie Cattle Dogs, "all over" would be fairly accurate. They're very energetic working dogs and I often see them for adoption perusing the web and the local humane society (often mixes but glaringly obvious as being part cattle dog)

[23JAZ]

We live in a rural area, and our little neighborhood area has had a lot of break ins and property crime since January. I've decided to get a dog as a first line of defense. My wife and I aren't pet people, my wife had pets growing up but I've never owned anything but Gold Fish so this will be totally uncharted territory for me. I think I've decided on a Belgian Malinois. I've heard they are very loyal, kid friendly dogs and good protectors.

My question is to people here that own them or have in the past, how are they with kids? I'm not just worried about my own, but we have other kids at our house pretty regularly. Are they comfortable around adult "strangers" that come over to visit once they see their owners are comfortable with them being there? I've known people who had dogs that were constantly on edge with anyone around who isn't the immediate family and I want to avoid that. I don't want friends and family to avoid coming over because of a dog they are unsure of, and I don't want to kennel one up every time we have guests, but I do want it to be a protector. Are my wants and desires in a dog incompatible? I hope these don't seem like stupid noob questions but I really have no experience with dogs of any kind other than other peoples pets. Thanks.
Have you given Boxers a look. We've had one for 11 years and couldn't be happier with him. Very loyal, protective, and he has made a great play buddy for my two boys (5 yrs + 3 yrs old). He is super protective of them and my wife, but he is a huge cuddle-bug too. And almost no SHEDDING!

[LittleLebowski]

I think it's good as a scare tactic, but there are far too many of us with pet Mals to go along with the warning and conclusion.

Is it a demanding breed for an owner? Yes.
Is it a bad idea for a first dog? Probably.
Are they bad pets? No.

Concur. When I got my Mal, I asked a seasoned LE/mil K9 handler on LightFighter a whole bunch of questions and he basically said "Dude, it's still a dog so treat it as such." Great advice as opposed to buying into the whole "Mals are unstoppable killing machines that only trained K9 handlers can own" nonsense.

[LittleLebowski]

Are those pics all the same dog?

Yes, I adopted him at that size, full grown.

[Elkhitman]

What pound? I'm seriously curious.

The Martinez (Contra Costa County) shelter had a male about 6-9 months last week. Not sure if they still have him, a friend sent me the picture. But they are showing up more and more in shelters in the SF Bay Area.

[Elkhitman]

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/16/6188a0282560442d8ec98ffa4da6d88e.jpg
Littlelebowski her eyes is a picture a friend sent me of the dog in the shelter.


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[Shellback]

Have you given Boxers a look. We've had one for 11 years and couldn't be happier with him. Very loyal, protective, and he has made a great play buddy for my two boys (5 yrs + 3 yrs old). He is super protective of them and my wife, but he is a huge cuddle-bug too. And almost no SHEDDING!
I agree 100% about Boxers. Except, ours shed like a beast! Wonderful dog though and we still miss her dearly.

The Martinez (Contra Costa County) shelter had a male about 6-9 months last week. Not sure if they still have him, a friend sent me the picture. But they are showing up more and more in shelters in the SF Bay Area.
I might have to take a road trip. Cute pup in that picture and our 7 yo Mal could use a playmate. :)

[LittleLebowski]

The Martinez (Contra Costa County) shelter had a male about 6-9 months last week. Not sure if they still have him, a friend sent me the picture. But they are showing up more and more in shelters in the SF Bay Area.

Damn, wrong coast. Definitely young enough to mold into a good dog.

[Shellback]

According to my eldest they make great snuggle buddies.

http://i59.tinypic.com/30tm8gn.jpg

[Coyotesfan97]

Just like other breeds there are dedicated Malinois (and Dutch Shepherd) rescue groups that will pick up Mals from shelters. If you see one in a shelter please find the local group and notify them. A lot of times the rescue group has already asked to be notified by the pound/shelter but it doesn't hurt to pass it on.

Dang I'm glad I didn't see that pup. I've got a lot of dogs but I dont think I could have left him there.

[Shellback]

Dang I'm glad I didn't see that pup. I've got a lot of dogs but I dont think I could have left him there.

He's not listed on their website anymore. :(

[23JAZ]

Yes, I adopted him at that size, full grown.
Great looking dog. Seems to be very well behaved and highly attentive around children.

[23JAZ]

[QUOTE=IRISH;303712]I agree 100% about Boxers. Except, ours shed like a beast! Wonderful dog though and we still miss her dearly.

The lack of much shedding could be because we live in cold ass Vermont! He was born and raised in AZ for his first 6 years then we moved here. Poor guy hates the cold!

[Bratch]

Just like other breeds there are dedicated Malinois (and Dutch Shepherd) rescue groups that will pick up Mals from shelters. If you see one in a shelter please find the local group and notify them. A lot of times the rescue group has already asked to be notified by the pound/shelter but it doesn't hurt to pass it on.

Dang I'm glad I didn't see that pup. I've got a lot of dogs but I dont think I could have left him there.

Ours came from the Malinois Rescue.
http://www.malinoisrescue.org

We've had him since 2005 so you can call me an early adopter.

[ToddG]

Mal's are showing up more and more in the pound because people don't realize what they are getting when they buy one.

I've seen the same. Our local (1-city) shelter had two so far this year alone. One was taken by an LE agency, the other by someone who thought the puppy was pretty. Guaranteed that second dog will be back there again before the year is over.

[Elkhitman]

Trained with a local agency today and I took this picture.
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/16/3fc7a44110b8a4f7f15d704433649c7a.jpg


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[Dutch63]

I adopted a 10 months old Belgium Malinois puppy but she doesn't make any sounds like barking or wining

[Bratch]

I adopted a 10 months old Belgium Malinois puppy but she doesn't make any sounds like barking or wining

How long have you had her? I’ve had couple adopted dogs that didn’t make a noise for several months.

[Dutch63]

How long have you had her? I’ve had couple adopted dogs that didn’t make a noise for several months.
We picked her up last Saturday

[LittleLebowski]

We picked her up last Saturday

Give it time. Is she otherwise healthy and happy?

[Bratch]

We picked her up last Saturday

Give it some time you’ll probably be hoping for the quiet soon.

A buddy adopted a 2 y/o GSD girl and she has went from quiet and timid to barking at everything over 5 months.