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May 20, 2011

I want my malinois to appear to be protective but not really. Any suggestions?

Full Question:
Hello,



I have watched the video I purchased, Basic Obedience Training, over and over. The introduction on how the dog thinks was very informative for me. Even though we have had many dogs, I have tended to train them the same as I would my horses. Mistake.



I own an 18 month old male Belgian Malinois. I can see why the breeder was so careful on "placing" him with us. They are wonderful smart dogs that could quickly rule the roost if the owner wasn't consistent. He is very consistent with his obedience work, does tracking and find it games.



The question is, we would like him to "appear" to be protective. We travel a lot and he goes with us. I don't want a true "protection" dog that I would always have to be careful of in public. I would like him to be alert to people that come to the door and make people wonder a little. I'm not sure how to explain what I'm looking for. I do know that the attitude or confidence that a dog projects has a real affect on strangers. That doesn't mean, they growl, snarl, or their hair stands up. We had a Rottie female that was very well behaved around people, but they never took their eyes off her. She just projected herself differently.



This dog failed as a K9 prospect because of his laid back attitude. I think he was the bottom of the pack order.



I hope I explained myself.



Thanks,
Cary
Cindy
Cindy Cindy's Answer:
I am not sure how long you have had this dog, but at 18 months old he may just not be mature enough to show the qualities you are looking for. Many of our Malinois and GSD males are a bit slow to develop their defensive drive.



It’s also possible that your dog may just not have the characteristics you are describing. All dogs are different, and some dogs are just very social and self assured. They don’t perceive normal everyday things as anything threatening or unusual.



I own 6 Malinois and breed them, and all of my dogs are very watchful and bark like crazy when anyone comes to the door or gets too near our vehicles. It can be a real aggravation sometimes.



With all the anti dog legislation and breed banning going on, it’s not always a good idea to encourage more watchful and protective behavior.

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Expert Dog Trainer Cindy Rhodes
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