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

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