Do you guys think that learning to handle a dutchie could be done by reading books, Ed's articals, and watching his DVD's as well? I feel like I know enough information to handle one. But is that enough or do you need experience? Are these dogs extremely dominant? I really don't want to be tested for leadership all the time, a few times is ok though.

Hi Andrew,

I can't speak to your Dutchie question, but regarding studying articles versus experience, you need experience, and lots of it.

Think of it this way: in school you are given text books to get a handle around the theory and concepts, but you do not know the material until you actually do some practice problems.

Treat whatever research material you come upon the same way - as guidance material for you to take to the field with your dog and practice. Moreover, just like those practice problems, it is likely you will not get it right the first couple of times, but that is the whole point - to learn from them.

Furthermore, I suggest going to a local dog sport club to see the training and experience in action.

SM

Andrew I think you've done some good homework. And I'm glad to read you are pretty realistic when it comes to PPDs. You're right. If someone is that determined to get into your house to hurt you, you are going to need more than a PPD.

Really, you can read and read and read, but you won't know until you get that pup. From the efforts you are putting into learning even before you get your pup, I think you'll do fine in handling a DS. Just make sure you have good/strict pack structure, and give the dog lot's of exercise. *IMO*

Andrew,
If it helps, you're going into a little more then a steep learning curve. I'm not saying one can't do it, but steel yourself for some REAL dedication if you're determined to start with a Dutchie.

That being said, any good dog is going to take at least two and probably closer to three years to start returning the dedication, that is if you do it right (in my humble experience).

Good luck! Dutchie's are indeed impressive.
Randy

I've said it before and I'll say it again. Dutchies do not make good beginner dogs. Look up the numerous threads on Malinois and their suitability for beginner owners on this forum. Most comments apply to Dutchies too.

Can you find one that makes a good pet? Probably. But it isnt a guarantee. If you do get a Dutchie that is a pain in the ass though, gimme a call when you're sick of him

Is it possible for Andrew to get the "mildest" Dutchie from the litter? A nice female for a start

Thanks for all the input, I really appreciate it! I'm looking more into Belgian Sheepdogs now, but I can't seem to make up my mind, both breeds have a lot of positives for me . Does anyone have experience with Belgian Sheepdogs, or could someone try and compare them to a dutchie? I've had a really hard time finding breeders in the US that do anything but show.

Andrew, I think the most important thing is to find a good breeder. The generalizations for breeds are a starting point. A good breeder will make sure you get the right pup.

I wanted a Malinois for my first dog. I bought an adult, obedience trained Dutchie/GSD mix. I knew I was in for a handful, but I did my homework and enrolled in a training class right way. He started me with Agility and Rally. I also do tracking, obedience and herding with my dogs.

Anyway, I survived. I swear this dog did not sleep. At least, I never saw him sleep until his last year when he was dying of cancer.

My next dog was a FR Malinois puppy. Wow, little Maligator! And this little girl does sleep.

Got a Laekenois next. (An import and the smartest dog in the world, but not a lot of drive.)

My next dog is going to be a Dutch Shepherd (90% certain, unless a good Malinois or Laekenois show up on my doorstep.) There are breeders who will work with you. I'm going with an FCI/UKC dog, and a Dutch Shepherd trainer/breeder has offered to help me find a suitable dog.

HOWEVER, you are going to have an active dog and its going to need a job. That can be obedience, agility, or just doing tricks.

The AKC Belgian dogs are all more suited for a pet home, because being AKC show dogs, looks are more important than workability. Some will argue with this, but look at the difference in temperament between an AKC Malinois and a UKC (or non-registered) Malinois. But, personally, I don't like the looks of an AKC Ch Malinois as much as the working brand. I also haven't meet many other Belgians that have won me over. Yes, a few, but not many. Just make sure you visit the parents of a puppy you are look to buy - BOTH parents.

That's my opinion. I am not a working dog person. Just dog sports as mentioned above. But all my dogs have to "work", they'd run crazy in circles if they didn't.

I had never even heard of a Laekenois before your post, what an interesting looking dog!