should I be concerned about the LACK of chewing/destructive behavior in my six month old male Malinois (working parents)?
This puppy doesn't act like a puppy. He doesn't chew what's not his, he isn't wild and doesn't show that classic "nutty malinois" behavior. If I had to describe him in one word it would be "serious". He is just so calm, observant and quietly intense. He does get wound up and very excited about working/training/being in drive but never really initiates these sessions.

I know I shouldn't be complaining about my dream puppy but I'm kind of concerned by his atypical malinois behavior. His two siblings eat everything and do more of the usual destruction.
My boy goes to work with me and is crated at night and at work when I have to go to a meeting or lunch. He has been left in the car for 1-3 hours with no problems on a regular basis. He's also growing a lot. He's big at 47lbs already (yes both parents are purebred, dad is 80lbs, mom is 60ish) but very skinny although eating 4cups of food each day.
Is his temperament not "ideal" for a malinois? I plan on doing S&R and some limited bitework with him.
Thanks in advance for any advice or thoughts.

A non typical behavior can just be that but can also be a sign of some medical problem. Have him checked by a vet who has some knowledge off the breed

Greetings

Johan

It's not so much an atypical behavior as much as an absence of typical behaviors, if that makes sense. He's been to the vet within the last two weeks and is healthy. Any other thoughts?

as long as he works when you want him to, what's the problem? <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Melissa,
Have you ever stopped to think, "Hmmmmmm this must be because I'm a great pack leader?"

Mundy

Melissa, sounds like you have a mal I could actually live with and keep my sanity!!! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Tim - I guess you're right, he does get going when he's supposed to. I think I'm just waiting for the other shoe to drop. Like when he finishes this growth spurt is he going to unleash this pent up Mal insanity? Have you ever had that happen with a puppy?
I don't think I'm that great of a pack leader, he's got good genes and he's never alone long enough to get into real trouble.
Jenni - he is VERY easy to live with. I had prepared myself for a tazmanian devil and he has been easier than most 2 year old kids.

My mal pup ( 9 months ) doesnt display that behavior either; though she also lacks the higher drives and possesion I would like too see <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />

 Quote:

Tim - I guess you're right, he does get going when he's supposed to. I think I'm just waiting for the other shoe to drop. Like when he finishes this growth spurt is he going to unleash this pent up Mal insanity? Have you ever had that happen with a puppy?

I don't think I'm that great of a pack leader, he's got good genes and he's never alone long enough to get into real trouble.
Jenni - he is VERY easy to live with. I had prepared myself for a tazmanian devil and he has been easier than most 2 year old kids.

i've never had a dog at the puppy stage. always had adult dogs. sounds like you may have just gotten lucky.