BEFORE YOU GET A BELGIAN MALINOIS - WATCH THIS
2024 ж. 7 Мам.
274 758 Рет қаралды
Mike Jones gives us his experience working with Belgian malinois and some pointers for you to figure out if they are a good fit for you
Mike Jones gives us his experience working with Belgian malinois and some pointers for you to figure out if they are a good fit for you
I got a Mal by accident. I thought I was getting a 6 y/o Shepherd but she tuned out to be a 1y/o crazy Malinois. It was going to be put down if it went back to the pound as she was not normal and returned twice. Luckily I'm retired and she gets out into the bush every day. 3 years later, I have an absolutely beautiful dog. Yes, she might freak out during the night but she sleeps with me. My chickens escaped and I just told her find the chickens, I was stunned how she actually found them in someone elses yard. I'm lucky, I own land and go nowhere without her. She has protected me twice while walking, as for a trainer, I live in the bush and she knows exactly what I want. I would not sell her for anything, I love her more than my wife.
love her more than your wife? Hope she doesn't see this.
Lol, you know you are wrong to say that!😂
lololololol
You are so Fcked up!!!
I've always said if you can find a woman or man that loves you half as much as your dog does.keep them. It's a very high bar to reach.
My grandparents have two Malinois and my grandfather was cutting trees, my grandmother was away shopping and a large branch broke off and felt on his head. Both dogs were close to him when it happened. One of them, Zitta who's 1,5y old jumped over the fence and went to warn the neighbors. It's thanks to her that my grandfather survived and is healthy and well again, but if he would have layed their for hours, he wouldn't be arround anymore. Those dogs are everything, but you need to train them well. For my grandparents they are their babies. I often take them for long walks and runs too.
Thank you for sharing! We are looking for a protector in our home, and a dog to help my wife with her epilepsy! The Belgian is one of my top pics! I need to make a decision by January of 2024! I am doing my research and due diligence more than ANYONE! We have 50 acres for the Belgian to run! Now, just need a good trainer in 2024!
@@underpartoday 2023
@@underpartoday to be honest i just looked into this breed first time its super impressive
@@underpartoday what state are you in? I have one in NJ for adoption to the PROPER home. Owner moving and I have no where to put him. no kids.he chases cats.
There is nothing like owning(I use that term loosely because u can never own a dog like these) a dutch or a mal. They r more human then animal most times. And it's all in there eyes. Both breeds have this amazing stare. They can connect with u on another level. These dogs are not cuddle bugs, they show there love through there actions and there eyes
Got mine as a puppy. He thrives for naps and cuddles. Please, not all BM are what you say they are. All dogs deserve above and beyond love and training. Ours is 5 years old now and will have your leg for snack if I say so and cuddle with my kids for a movie. It wasn’t as “hard and scary” as people say.
I am 65 years old. My first Belgian malinois. I got him at six months old. Spend lots of time training him. He is an awesome dog. Is now two years and elven months old. He is by my side continually no matter what I do. If u have plenty of time to spend with a dog, I recommend this dog. Wonderful pet. That's only my opinion, and a beautiful dog.
Definitely gorgeous!
@@jonitalia6748 hoping if we get one, it will help my wife with her epilepsy.
It usually is like that, but training has to happen and alot of it :D and deep understanding of individual dog has to be there, so you can offer him the right R+ :D
You are right, time! We're in the same boat.
A coworker of mine got a Malinois as a 'failed' police dog. Her alarm system notified her of her back door being breached, and she pulled up the camera app to see that he'd chewed through the doggy door (it was one that had a slat to cover it at night etc) and was playing fetch by himself in their full sized swimming pool with a soccer ball. It got the ball into the pool and was chasing it back and forth. It was STILL doing it almost 3 hours later when we got off work. And it's not like this dog didn't get exercise. My coworker was one of those people who took their dog on 5 mile daily hikes, 10 mile bicycle rides on the weekends, occasional trips hunting, fishing, etc. It STILL wasn't enough for this particular dog. Soooo much energy. I ran into her a few months ago, and even though that dog is around 11 years old now, she says he has't slowed down one bit.
My Belgian was a pup when I found her under my car in my driveway. I took her in and realized she is very traumatized by loud noises. Thunder, rainstorms, loud voices and sounds in the house. She is a very intelligent dog. She has learned how to turn off the tv, Christmas tree, air purifier, etc. She has also actually learned how to use the deadbolt on our door. She loves to play and fetch and learns commands very quickly! Her herding instinct is very strong and softly nips me at the hip to guide me to something important. She is extremely protective and must walk the perimeter of our home before she can sleep every night. I wish I had the knowledge of a dog trainer as I’d love to be able to give her the best life possible. She’s been with us 10 yrs and is still going strong ❤
The first couple of weeks I had doubts, and I was worried that I had made a mistake. She's almost 5 months old and I couldn't imagine giving her up. She's extremely smart and very, VERY easy to train. She's extremely high drive, but after 15 minutes of making her mind work, she needs a nap. Also, one thing that is rarely discussed, is the cuddling. Especially if you're the number one person to the Malinois, you will get extreme cuddles and affection. I've never had such an affectionate dog. But that eventually leads to being mouthed and nibbled. Still great!
I was thinking of buying a female, watching this video, makes me see in the first place that it is not a pet but a dog exclusively for attack and guard. As I said above in a comment I had German Shepherds and Rottweilers that I trained myself, and at that time my children were boys I never had problems because I trained them with discipline and a lot of love. This video is instructive for those who want an aggressive dog specialized in attack, which seems to me that you can achieve it with any pet. I agree with the idea of the instructor, they need a lot of time of training and love, the protective part they bring in their genes.
This! Mine is crazy affectionate but he will get very excited and start nibbling/biting, just gotta find your own way to calm them down.
Beauiful; and so well said! We are looking for a protector in our home, and a dog to help my wife with her epilepsy! The Belgian is one of my top pics! I need to make a decision by January of 2024! I am doing my research and due diligence more than ANYONE! We have 50 acres for the Belgian to run! Now, just need a good trainer in 2024!
Great video, we have a BM we picked up from a local shelter, they said the previous owner gave up , way to much energy. Luckily my wife stays at home during the day and we both have previous experience with GS dogs. Everything he says in this video is correct 👍
I had those same doubts the first few weeks, too. 5 years later I realize he was the best dog we could have adopted. Ours is a mixed Mal we got from the breeder free because he had low drive. Being older,I worried that we weren't a good fit for him, but the whole family helped in walking him and making sure he had plenty of mental stimulation and interacted with lots of different people. He is just the sweetest dog now at 5 years old. Only get a Mal if you are committed to spending the time that is necessary to socialize and exercise them physically and mentally is what I tell people who are thinking of getting one. I had a super smart border collie before him, but my Mal amazes me. My grown son said it is like having a four year old kid in the house, lol. By the way, if you discourage the nipping and give them plenty of other things to chew on safely, they actually do grow out of the biting stage. He is very careful not to bite me now. I just get scratched if I forget to get his claws trimmed. Lol Best wishes with your Mal. 😊
I’m a trainer who just sent your video to a potential client. They are seniors who rescued a young Mal recently. One thing to add to what you said (which was a beautiful mouthful)-is that not all trainers are the right trainers for a Mal. What I offer in training and what a Mal needs are two different topics. I will evaluate this dog and family and refer out. This is when ego needs to be set aside to fulfill the dog. Thank you for a great video!
Well put! These are the only dogs I train. They are a dominant breed that really need good leadership. They are also very sensitive dogs. Sensitive to corrections as well compared to a GSD. the key is in training the owners.
I have a Belgian X. He's been a handful, but I'm happy to have him. Extremely smart and energetic. He is my woods buddy. DO NOT use harsh discipline and aggressive talk. They WILL become shy and timid.
What corrections (harshness) you hand out will depend on the dog. I've had dogs that would shrug off a *very* harsh correction like "Whatever ..." ... and others that would mope around if you gave them a hard look. It's good that you know what your dog will tolerate. Repeated, excessively harsh corrections - beyond the tolerance of your dog - can make the dog kind of psychotic - and dangerous to be around (which I've dealt with before).
I owned a horse who was much the same. He had broken bones on three different trainers; they had tried everything even breaking him in a pond. FinaIIy turned to pasture and given up on. He was gifted to me. I used slow, gentIe, positive training with him, to which he responded positiveIy. I rode him with the NationaI for 15 years and he always got attention and countless offers to buy him. ExtremeIy intelligent, the main reason he would not respond to strict harsh training. He passed a few years ago, I wiII never forget him.
So true about training and punishment....they are smart enough to understand being scolded....not punished!!
Thank you for this video. My heart breaks seeing all the failures with this magnificent breed. A malinois is too much dog for 90 % of folks. The shelters in so cal are filled with malinois that people failed. Most will not make it out of a shelter alive.. It kills me. I've dedicated the rest of my life to helping and training the owners of these dogs. Thank you.
THIS!! Human failure ....not the dog!! Potential owners must be screened. I LOVE ours....but he lives on a 45 acre horse farm....has a Border Collie x Whippet cross companion and is with me 98% of the time. He is TOTALLY devoted to me and a great deterant to misbehavior by "bad people"!!! The SMARTEST dog I have ever owned!!
I got a Mali, year in now.... And wow... What a dog. Boundless energy, unbelievably loyal. My shadow now, comes everywhere with me. Never been destructive in the house, never chewed my sofa apart, but Im literally running her all day. If she ain't panting, she's not happy. Simple. Definitely NOT a pet dog. Definitely requires it's owner to step up, and if you do, you will never own a dog like it, and will never connect with another dog in the same way..... She's my star.... Just what I needed.
After working with these dogs overseas and as a cop, I took a year of doing nothing but research before I got one. When I made the decision to get one, I still took another few months to pick the right breeder. When I got her I spent the next year of training her, I let a trainer take her for two weeks and make sure that everything I was doing was right. Now, she is amazing…she is very obedient, loving, and protective. She will play with all the neighborhood kids in our yard and she still knows when to turn it on and off. I couldn’t have asked for a better dog…but with all that comes a price tag, not just money but lots of time. She did not eat from a dog dish for 6 months. Everything she got for food came out of my hand or my family’s hand and she worked for every bite. And….no, they don’t stop biting 😂
this is gold advice!
Very much the same situation. I have a MAL x Am staff. 12 months of hand feeding and working for every scrap of food. 2.5 years of hard working, training with an Ex military Doggie. Now he is very settled, hell of a lot of hard work and time. But wouldn’t change him for the world.
Mine is almost 3 years old, 85 pounds, and NEVER bites. I am 95 pounds and don't allow it. He is the most obedient dog and the easiest I have ever trained, as he wants so badly to please me. Best dog in the world and never more than an inch away from me, if that. 100 % recall when chasing a rabbit, how many dogs are like that? But, I put in the time and I had the experience. Most people don't do either. Can't imagine life without him. But yes, they DO stop biting if they are trained to not do so.
Got in 1988 my first Dutchy with 6 months without knowing what dog he was 😂 May be i was just lucky to instinctively playing with him rough and started to get control over him and his trust. He became an amazing family dog (3 kids and grandma in a big city) and left a big hole in our life after 16 years...till my second Dutchy caught me - again 6 months old, a "dangerous rescue" and again an amazing family dog...she helped me raising my actual Dutchy (also "dangerous rescue" ), who helped me over the loss of her after 15 years...and the death of my husband Thinking this video is the best i saw about Mals and Dutchies, thank you
I got lucky! I rescued a 2yr old pure breed Belgian malinios last year in September and he was going to be put down and he has major separation anxiety. Did a lot of research and even then it’s a whole different animal. Had him professionally trained and he is part of our family and he is definitely a great house dog. A lot of work. I was worried when the movie came out because of that reason. To many are abandoned because people don’t know how to care for them
Oh that’s awesome you were able to rescue and train your pups, great job!
Wait a second. WHY was he going to be put down?
@@ayakosaito7323 because of his separation anxiety. After they got him as a stray someone adopted him and took him home left him in a kennel for 12hrs and he broke out and ate some shades and the retuned him
@@codythrasher3930 But how is that a valid reason for considering putting a dog down?
@@ayakosaito7323 I guess either in the area and or California with how many dogs and animals places have if there are issues like that I guess they put them down.
I've had 9 Mali's and one GSD/Mali mix - all rescues. Personalities have spanned the spectrum from a Mali who identifies as a Golden Retriever to a nitrous-injected meth-head with a death wish ... turned up to 11. Some I've rehabbed and re-homed (because they needed a different environment or more "job" than I could give them), and some I've kept. I don't think I'll ever have another breed, but your warnings are 100% spot-on: If you don't intend to spend a *significant* amount of time with them, look for a different breed. If you don't find something to stimulate their mind, THEY will find something to stimulate their mind like, say, disassembling your couch or cutting the garden hose into neat little 8" sections ... all 50 feet of it. The fantastic thing is that you will get out of them what you put into them - they love to learn and work. Activity needs will depend on temperament/personality of the particular dog. Some can play for hours and seem to never get tired ... others get bored of playing after only 15 minutes or so. I have two at the moment: "Lazy and Crazy" - polar opposites of the behavioral/drive spectrum ... but both are good dogs.
I rescued a Malinois from living in a cage in a hot Florida garage this summer. I had never heard of a Malinois. It is a full time job. Thankfully I have “some” experience with working dogs but never a Malinois. It’s a TON OF WORK. I figure it will keep me going, young and fit. Most of all they he gives tons of love in return.
In the Netherlands and Belgium they are actually really common as pets, it really depends if you buy knpv or house pet bloodlines. As long as you can give the dog enough mental and physical stimulation. Retired police dogs and dogs not being "suitable" for knpv end up being family pets. It was originally bred to herd and be an all purpose farm dog :) knpv and in an extension the dutch police only look for dogs with great obedience and bitework, so in my humble opinion I agree with you if we are talking about bloodlines bred for police and the military but not for any mal/dutchie
Is KNPV is a bloodline?
@@weinosby Its the 'Koninklijke Nederlandse Politiehond Vereniging'. Its an organisation in NL that ensures good quality dogs for police, and rescue dogs for instance.
It's a breeding program that the Dutch royal police started to create elite working dogs. All knpv bred dogs come with a brn number so you can see it's lineage. Knpv also does competition with bite work and other working methods. Not every dog that is knpv bred will be knpv certified. They often breed Mal's and dutchies together to create the best working dog possible, so most knpv Mal's and dutchies are actually combinations of both breeds. My dog is both.
Exactly the dogs are no different than a true game pitbull terrier
Yeah, this dude is trying to put the malinois on a difrent light, just because is cool
Got my first one in '94, just thought it was a cool looking GSD type breed. Boy was I in for a surprise 😮 Had them ever since because once I figured out how to direct them properly I can't imagine a better sidekick.
Same, I don't look at other dogs the same anymore.
Ye i had GSD for long years and switching to mals i was like, jesus what i just did to myself :D
I always had GSD's . After retirement from the military I was looking for another German Shepherd Dog when the opportunity to adopt a 1 yr old female Malinois. I'd been freinds with guys in our K9 cell so was pretty familiar with the huge differences and needs. So I got this beautiful female Malinois and have never looked back . Without a doubt the best dog I've ever been lucky enough to have . She definitely is so different in the way of energy, prey drive and desire to learn . I'm fortunate to live in the country with a lot of land . I have the time required to work with her everyday. Excercise 4 times a day ,everyday, plus work with her training and obstacle course (I built her an obstacle course in the back) everyday. From bite work to tracking shedding so well . Definitely has taken a huge chunk of my life the last 2.5 yrs but has enriched my life in so many ways . Haven't ever regretted my decision to get her . Ever. Good video though. People need to realize the enormous amount ot time it will take in the all around care a Malinois needs . If you can't give that amount of time , a Malinois probably isn't the right choice.
Good, but to be hones, running wont wear down Malinois, more you run them more neurotic they become. They have to bite and bite hard :)
@@fazer215 No, they do NOT have to bite and bite hard. Give them toys. Mine is the happiest, best adjusted, most affectionate and most obedient dog I have ever known, out of dozens of rescues of many different breeds, including Filas [180 pounds and banned in many places] and toys. My Mal wasn't a rescue, though, I bought him as a baby. Best decision I ever made. BUT, not a breed for 99% of dog owners. If your Mal becomes neurotic from running, something, either training or genetic, is wrong with him. Please have a physical and mental evaluation done. These are not neurotic dogs. This is the sanest, most trainable dog I have ever known and I am an older 95 pound female. Small visiting children can take bones and balls out of his mouth and he would NEVER knock over a child. He is purebred, but not from working lines and that also makes a difference. He is also larger than most, at 85 pounds.
@Famouskate yeah u have weak line gerere we use only KNPV and yes THE DO HAVE TO BITE HARD ;)
And yes they are very neurotic...its known for malinois to brees for this ;)
@@fazer215 It's not called weak. Ninja would defend me with his life. No one can correctly call that weak. They are referred to as from pet lines. Nothing neurotic about them and if you read the comment section, you will see that others agree. The working line that you refer to does not make a good family dog, since its DNA is different. But look up the definition of "neurotic." It is a mental disorder. Do you want a dog with a mental disorder? My "weak dog" would also, after I introduced you and told him you are a friend, protect YOU with his life. Look up definition of "weak."
Excellent video It’s great to see someone discussing the realities of this breed as well as the reasons for those. Thanks.
I can take my dutchie on a 2 hour hike. Or a 30 minute training session. After the hike he's still ready to go. A quick 30 min training session burns him out quick. Mental stimulation is so important with these animals.
this is advice worth in gold guys! running them for hours will only make them stronger, wearing their brains in 15 minutes and they ll sleep like babies :D combining both will get you a companion for life !
Found a malinois puppy at the shelter 2 months ago. She is docile, sweet, submissive, and very eager to please. All dogs are different. She is currently being trained to be a service dog and she’s doing great ! Hoping to get her into obedience training soon for some good structure. UPDATE: she is not a malinois she is a pit bull German shepherd that looks eerily similar to a malinois. She’s still perfect in every way. Sometimes shelter dogs are better. 😂❤️
Who are you training with??
Great to hear! My girl's docile and submissive as well. She's also protective and affectionate. I'm glad you got a good friend, no matter what breed. ❤😊
Been looking for this channel for so long. A proper format of "I respect your time, here's what you came for and some cool footage"
Good video man. I’ve had one for 3 years now and she is literally as much of a commitment as having a kid. That likes to bite
I acquired my malinois from a guy who had no clue about this breed . We believe he is 16 months old. After having him, ( Atlas) for almost 6 month's , he's been a awesome companion to our family. All he wants is to be loved and please his owner's. I couldn't have made it better decision on taking him into our home and lives. He's so smart and is protective of our family. He also has learned a few parlor tricks. We love Atlas so much and can't wait to have a lot of fun with him over the year's.
Great video man. Love how you closed it out. My wife and I were in the group of “had dogs all our life,” have started horses, rescued pits, thought we knew we could handle a rescue mal. One night on the couch she asked, “did we get in over our heads?” Instantly replied with Yes! The very next week, connected with a professional trainer. Have since spent HUNDREDS of hours working with her and amazing dog we trust implicitly! To your point - mental and physical training daily but so much reward
Glad you emphasized how important the lines are. Lines are most important for herders more than breed standards. They all come in a wide variety of purposes.
I’ve had several Malis through the years professionally and now in retirement. And you are right they are a commitment, you have to exercise their mind and body, but if you know what you are getting yourself into and do the work they are amazing animals!
So glad to see a trainer be honest about working breeds. Many people jsut say what people want to hear Heart breaking to see dogs and people suffer the consequences.
I’m so relieved someone is finally being real with people. It’s not a character flaw on you (reader) if you can’t handle the brutal diligence it takes to care for a malinois. This breed truly needs a 9-5 job to be happy. Exercise alone isn’t going to make them happy. Being alone all day while you’re at work will drive them to destructive tendencies. No, they won’t like you if you ignore their needs. It’s a huge commitment, and that’s just a reality you’ve gotta be honest with yourself about when considering adopting any breed specific dog.
if you have good schedule they can be alone, but training and schedule has to be there, and individual dog needs fulfilled! Running them for hours wont wear them out, they need to use their brains :) if you are only running them, boy you will get yourself a monster :D
I really respect what your message is. You have to be ready to subsume your own interest at times under what the dog really is. You sounds like a good dude!
We inherited a Mali from my SIL. She didn’t train him worth a crap and he allegedly was a police academy drop out, ended up at the shelter. So he’s been a lot of work to train and it has also been very fulfilling to see his progress. He is VERY smart. And with that comes quite a bit of mischievous behavior ha. When our Mali has been well exercised physically and mentally, he is very sweet. He LOVES his family, is very loyal and cuddly. He has quite the personality! His mission is as a guard dog so once we finish with basic training we’ll do some hunting and guard specific training bc he obviously has strong drives for both of those. For a dog, esp Malinois, it’s lifelong learning. Some fun tips: play is the best tool for teaching. Yes, he loves food, and that works for indoor training to some extent, but play is the best training tool. He will do anything to have the toy thrown! Ours is like a cat - he loves to chase laser lights. At night he’ll chase the laser across the park and back. One thing to note is Malinois don’t know when to STOP. So you have to know when their healthy stopping point is. I’m pretty sure he’d go until he passed out or died. So I’m better now about stopping work/play before he starts coughing or barfing. He can jump 5-6ft straight up in the air. And he LOVES it. We have fun with the training and our bond is very strong. That way when he’s resting he IS a great family pet. They get anxious when they’re not working and that leads to destructive behavior… he loves to steal utensils from the counter and lick/chew on them. I don’t blame him - butter and bacon grease is delicious 😂 it’s about being conscientious of the home and training. He at least has pretty good bite inhibition but likes to gnaw on your arm when we get home/he gets excited. Did train him to leave the cat alone. The breed are major people pleasers so despite the prey drive around other animals (he’d never seen a cat before close up) you can teach them quickly the appropriate behavior. He basically ignores the cat. Sometimes tries to sniff her. He’s a good dog! I’ve always respected the breed but never thought I’d have one. Now I really love them and may get more in the future once ready.
Exactly right!
I've had 2 German Shepherds and a boxer. I just got a Belgian Mal and when I went to see the litter they did not stop playing for HOURS. It was constant. They legit don't know when to stop. And if any one of the pups tried to stop the whole gang jumped them😂
My Malinois girl has to be told to rest. She hates it. But if I tell her to rest she knows what to do.
Thank you so much for clarifying this. I have 4 Mali's and a Dutchie and all have a specific job. I own a training facility and have founded a Non-profit for Service Dogs and tell my clients this on a daily basis. Thank you for keeping it honest and real!
Thank you for doing non profits!
and she's perfect - if you want to sleep ,she sleeps,go run or anything else... she's always up for it...
Thanks for the fine content good information to know
I rescued a female Belgian malinois that I found about two blocks from my house I almos run over her, it was around Christmas time, it looks like she was abused because if I raised my hands suddenly she thought I was going to hit her same thing when raising legs like she was kicked, she was so scared that she used to urinate when she thought she was going to get hit, lucky 1 1/2 years I have been training her and teaching her there is nothing to fear, there is still a lot of work to do, first thing to do was getting the fear away then little by little teach her basic obedience. I think she knows that me and my family saved her because she is very protective with us her instincts kicks in when she notice something is not right, she’s always by my side and loves to ride in the car, One thing I need to work on is on thunder sounds she does get a little scare about that.
Thank you. You put me on point
The most important thing in my experience with these guys is you have to socialize them asap, I'm a trainer and got mine from the family I was helping, he was 6 months old and never socialized, it's something that is easy to do but if not done when there pups it's almost impossible when there adults. Same could be said for all breeds but these guys and there extremely high energy is especially important.
I LIKE HOW YOU EXPLAIN EVERYTHING. DIRECT AND ON PIONT MY GUY...
They are still a specialist breed in Australia. I just sent my 14 month Mal off to have her training finished for the Federal Police. She is confident, strong and bites and holds hard. She didn’t have time to be my pet hahaha!
Oh that’s awesome! There’s some awesome trainers out there too 🙌🏼🙌🏼
Awww how sweet
Love the message
100000000% right on.
Totally agree w/ you! These dogs are a handful and the risk of accidents in case of mistakes, ignorance, or poor management is too high. The first time I wasn’t afraid around malis was when I visited a dog training facility and the malis were trained in mondioring and other bite work, but they were always doing something, under command when unleashed around strangers like me. They couldn’t care less about me being there lol they were indeed super well socialized and trained to be neutral around people in these situations
Thanks man for explanation.
On point. I've been doing animal rescue/rehab for 20 yrs. I've had two purebred mals because they were high-energy and bite driven. Best dogs if you know how to train them and give them what they need. Both of mine have been great house dogs since they were trained.
Thank you for your post.
Mike, this is one of the most sensible things I've ever heard about malinois.
Wish more trainers would be as honest and precise about what working dogs need and especially these specific breeds. Too many people don't research before getting any breed ! Thank you for a true and informative video.
I got mine from a kill shelter when he was one year old even after studying the breed for five months I was still overwhelmed with the amount of energy that these dogs have! luckily, I was able to contact a excellent police military dog trainer with over 30 years experience and he guided me on how to train and mentally stimulate my Belgian Malinois! Now that these dogs are more well known and in the public eye, More people know what there are, however, I usually start the conversation off with when I first got him he only slept four hours a night! This will usually deter people from getting them lol. But seriously you do need to have a complete lifestyle change if you wish to have this breed and spend the money and the time and do it correctly! He’s turning eight years old soon and still has a lot of energy but he’s balanced and an amazing dog! I Couldn’t have asked for a better animal but be fully aware of what you are getting yourself into before getting one! I absolutely Love my Maxamillion :)
probably the most honest and real KZhead video I've seen in a while But all in if you LOVE the Mali he will love you back
What a great video, thank you. I live in North Texas, will be looking for a trainer that works with Mals. About three months from bringing him home. Have looked at his lineage, I want to make sure I do the right things for him. Any recommendations on trainers?
This popped up in my feed, looked into it and you're in my area. I got a nice 8mo old GSD I need to start training now.
Great video for me who is wanting one. Thanks
My friend has one of these. He is a dog trainer. The one he has is the most obedient and disciplined dog I have ever encountered. But he told me basically the same thing about this breed. It is a commitment to own one.
Oh nice! And yup he definitely knows haha
It's a commitment to own any dog most people shouldn't own any dog
The Malinois work drive is what makes them a favorite for many trainers. Their mental faculty and physical abilities willing make any pro trainer or responsible owner skilled in operant conditioning look amazing.
Thank you very much for being honest about Malinois.
Grew up with Mali’s & Dutchies. Incredible dogs. My Father famously used to tell me, it’s mostly the owner that needs training, not the dog lol. That said most don’t know what they’re getting themselves into. Only thing I didn’t see this video speak in is the amazing relationship & bond you’ll have once you put in the work, truly nothing like it
Gold !
Thanks for the video 📹
THANK YOU for this very insightful video. I hope it helps us the public think long and hard before getting this amazing but high maintenance breed.
Thank you for not sugar coating shit!! so may people do. great video
Great video. Thank you.
Amen. Luckily I have land. She is VERY social and love the fam. Great video (including other k-9's)!
Good advice and a great video.
This is the BEST advise I've seen...me and my wife ...cross your fingers .....we can adopt one that's a yr old ...and we excited because I now work from home and need something to do lol...and I hope they say yes to us...and I'm gonna see a trainer here in Charlotte before we get her
Well said, thanks, 👍
Outstanding information….
Great video! It's so important for people to understand bloodlines....it matters across the board; whether dogs.....or horses....cats....
We had high percentage wolf hybrids. Most awesome critter I've ever had. What I found heart wrenching was the number of people that also go them and ruined them because they didn't have a clue what they were getting into and surrendered them. We made certain ours were well socialized. Right now, we have a black shepherd who is like my favorite kind of wolf a black phase. In the spring he lightens up and in the fall her turns black. I kind of wanted to do a Malinois, but I'm 70 in a few months so not a good fit.
At last.. Someone who talks science.. thanks.from uk..
If you're going to get a mal puppy one of the key purchases you should buy before bringing your pup home is a Costco sized box of Band-Aids, I love my Malinois, best dog I have ever had and this is from someone who has been fortunate to have owned several great dogs, mainly herding dogs with a few GSDs thrown in for good measure. mainly we do obedience and nose work. You hit the nail on the head with your socialization comment, like many people with dogs covid set us back for socialization and his vest picked up "STAY 6 Ft. away from my owner" on both sides which has also helped with people not petting my 82 lb solid not soft beastie. I don't know about your dogs, but this guy picks up fans wherever we go. On the far side of bite work from what I have seen in other mals and experienced with my dog they are one of the funniest dogs out there. My lifestyle now is this, if my dog can't go, I don't go. I have considered dog sport but he's doing so well as is and finding people to train with in the remote area I live in is impossible so he will remain as is though I know he would love doing one of the dog sports.
Our building contractor (we were building a new home on our 45 acre horse farm) nailed "IT" after watching our BM pup....he noticed that in the BM's mind...there was an invisible circle around both my husband and me....and NO ONE was allowed inside/too close....to either of us!! No growl, bark or teeth bared....just a look that could peel paint and told the "offender" to back away....NOW!! All of the workmen learned to stay a respectful distance away from hubby and me. Never a single nip or growl...but they stayed a polite distance back!! Best part..."everyone" in our little town has heard about our dog!! Good security guard!!
Very well done and your presentation. If after watching this video you think you don’t want such a high drive dog, perhaps inquire about a Anatolian shepherd. They’re known for being much more laid-back. Yet they are still very strong; I weigh 220 And that’s all I can do sometimes to hold him back when he wants to go after something. He weighs 124
As a mailman who deals with dogs all day and just a guy who trains for fun from time to time I want one. new sub✌🏾
My wife and I rescued a 4 mo old malinois. Man were we in for a surprise lol. I had done some initial research but the wife just couldn't let her go and got attached. It's been 4 months now since we got her and since then I put her in a 6week board & train and currently doing follow up lessons. We've made the commitment to get ourselves trained too so that we know how to properly manage her and give her the outlet she needs. We live in a small 1 bedroom apartment so that means we definitely go out more than usual. It's been going great so far and def agree getting down a routine and setting her up for success is so important (we've been good at keeping her crate trained and is never out alone especially in an apartment). Even though she is my first dog (I know sounds crazy right) I can't imagine giving her up or rehoming her because of how she's become a part of our lives/family which is why I made the investment to have her trained and the commitment to her wellbeing. It's videos like these and many others that have helped me manage my expectations now that I have a malinois. Being an avid gymgoer, I've been very disciplined and dedicated to my fitness so my mentality is using that same level of discipline to train my self into training and maintaining my pup.
Thank you for making this video! My dad has a habit of coming back with new dogs, unannounced. He does what he wants. 🙄 Right now we have two Mals, and they're very good at learning tricks. The puppy bites a lot like you said, so it makes more sense now LOL the older one is more well mannered, and takes her guard job very seriously. I make sure to give them plenty of toys and playtime. I hope guarding makes them feel fulfilled enough though! Someone mentioned that they don't care if you're sick? Two days ago when I was really sick, our older one came up next to me to lick my hand gently. I think they have the ability to be gentle, loving and considerate when they feel fulfilled and safe maybe?
In our experience they definitely do bond well with the family and definitely do know if their pack is not feeling well, great dogs in general but definitely need training haha
My first dog was a Belgian malinois and we spent a year hiking. It was awesome
How was it as a first dog
We put our 12 year old Mal down a week ago and I am looking at Mal videos for comfort. Its such a wonderful dog and I fully agree with you.
Heartbreak RIP. How you holding up
@@bluecollarbcg330 It is OK. My girlfriend who was the one having him all the time and spending the hours with him every day is having a harder time. Next time we feel we will probably have two with a few years between.
Really heartbreaking to lose a dog that has been with you for a long time. Feels the same as losing a very close, true friend. Wish you good luck in finding new Mals and having them for a long, wonderful time.
I am so sorry for your loss. Truly. Mine is almost 3 and I can't imagine life without him. Get another one, OK? it won't replace the one you lost, but, it will help and you obviously are a Mal person, unlike so many wannabees.
why?
This was by far the best video I've come across. I've had 3 GSDs and currently have a heeler. The heeler is 11-12 and am starting to research now. I have maybe about 3-4 years with my old lady and want to look for a trainer now. Thank you for this video. I needed to hear this. I want a competitive dog and a Mal is ideal. Can I handle it ? I think yes. I've worked with dogs professionally for 20 years. I want to find a professional to work with now.
Excellent video!!!!
Go to a shelter… I went to a rescue and was told she’s a German Shepard. Rescued her and it came back - she’s a mal… I wouldn’t trade her for anything! One of the toughest most rewarding 10 months so far I’ve ever had. We have a sky to go, but she learns everyday and I can not imagine life without her greeting me every morning.
Good information.
I have had Heelers and Aussies for years. When I retire, I think this is my next project. ❤
First time Malinois owner and 14 months later ( got her wih 3 months) and love my girl...but yes have invested lot's of time, effort and as you state professional training. Which is on-going...i call it Malinois high level maintenance! Good video!
That’s awesome, great job taking care of your girl!!!
@@PrimalCanine Thank you. Sub from Madrid, Spain! Keep up the great work you do.!
WHO! Brilliant! Cheers mates!!
Good video. Cheers.
I have 2 belg malinois and they are so amazing
Thank you for this Video. So many don't know, what they do, or underestimate, just wanting some special or exotic dog for show, insta or whatever. And the dogs suffer by this... .
got my dog from the shelter he’s a mal/shepherd mix. we love him he is so much work definitely not an easy dog they require a lot of your time!! we have him in lots of training and he loves training and we love training together! definitely was not planning to get this kind of dog but under the correct training they can be great!
he is always on a leash or in his crate and we hand feed him he works for every meal!
My Maligator will be 11 in 2 weeks. She is a service dog for my PTSD (Vietnam Vet) she is great and I take her everywhere I go. That said, when we get home I still have to take her outside and either work her with a tug /bite work or have her chase the frisbee, or both. She still loves to bite. But when she is in vest she is a different dog and all about me. She is a fantastic dog.
Thank you absolutely graciously.. great advice!
I have a mal Shepard mix... she's changed my life.. I walk her 3 times a day ..she's got me more active.. love my girl
So right, I Had a lot dogs incl German Pointers and Australian Shepherds, but my first Mali was different
Great video!!
How timely this video is, BMs are really the hot new thing people are trying to get their hands on not thinking of how much the responsibility and dedication it comes with. We got a few dogs and a part of our local dog community, and we see a lot of the members having these bad boys. Though most of them are either always on a short leash, or muzzled. The one that really stuck with me was the one with the prong collar, and the owner did multiple awkward leash pops when the dog was misbehaving. The dog looked confused after while walking backwards a few steps.
Ahh hopefully they get their dogs trained!
I wish some of these dogs were donated to the Deseable Veterans. They get attack on the street because of their Disability.
My Malinois was a owner surrender as a puppy because the owners did not realize what they got themselves into. I knew of the breed very well and have had experience with working with them. I knew I could handle this puppy but I still took him to his trainer because I wanted to make sure I was doing right by him. He is a lower level drive Malinois but we do French Ring and are going for our CSAU soon🙌🏼 looking forward to getting another mal but definitely from a reputable breeder
That’s great you were able to take in that pup AND know how to work with it!
I have taken your advice and decided against buying either. Thanks!
Great video! I am fascinated with this breed but I realized instantly I needed to be 10 to 15 years younger and work 15 to 20 hours less to even consider the prospect of having one. There is nothing worse than having a dog whose talents you can't develop or can't handle. Thank you for this video.
Well, I'm 74. So I don't know if age is significant. But, I did quit my full time job so that I could spend more time with my dogs! We hike 4-5 times a week, train daily. He's a shelter rescue who is mentored by my Pyrenees/border collie mix....so he's learning to CALM DOWN! He's mouthy, sensitive and warms up to men on his terms only! Avoidance is his "go to" reaction. Not agressive at all....unless someone approaches me in a less than calm/pleasant manner (just men). Probably from abuse encountered while being caught by the dogcatcher (used the catch pole).
Well said. Real working line dogs of any breed need those specific needs met on a daily basis. Nice realistic video.
My son took one of these in after it spent a month and a half wondering around our neighborhood as a small pup. We didn't know what bread he is but he looks an awful lot like the ones in the videos. His behaviors even match the description you have given. He is a handful and very very VERY destructive. But he's a loving dog and super energetic. We have had him for about 5 months now and now seeing this video I don't know where to even begin to help cater to his natural behaviors.
We rescued a malinois boxer mix and he is the most chill dog ever, i was amazed when we got the dna test back cause he is the opposite of every malinois stereotype, sleeps most of the day but then will go for a 6 mile hike no problem
Well said 👍👍👍
So true, well explained. A Mal is a commitment, you need to be aware that the dog comes first on a regular basis. And yeah, it's not the dog's fault, it's 'genetics'. I worked with these guys (well, it were gals 🙂) in the military and they were both working dogs and best pet-companions at the same time. But boy, that takes a lot of work. Nonetheless, if you can keep a Mal interessed and trained, you will get a loving dog in response. But it's not easy ;-)