Thank you for putting so many of these videos on for people. I'm not real sure that they will head your warnings, but I am grateful. I rescued a Dutch Shepherd that had been abandoned and had run in the woods with her litter mates for 6 months. After trying to reach Cesar Millan and get her another home, I made the commitment to keep her. Since that time, and before I decided to keep her, I worked with a professional who trains protection dogs. He has been my mentor since. I love the dog dearly, but she is, as you say, a massive challenge everyday. We call her the meat bullet. And all the things that you say about these dogs are true. I must make sure that she has constant structure, and that I am alpha, because she has killed two dogs and two cats before I got her. She is dog aggressive to the point that both she and I ended up in the emergency room when she attacked a pitbull and put her in the hospital. That was after she tore her own nose in half getting through a real Cyclone Fence pen gate. So, though I do not have much faith in the people that are watching these videos that don't have these dogs, and I do not have much faith that these people will listen to you, please keep up the good work
My Mal embarrassed me rightfully so a few times in front of a lot of people because I was in over my head until I learned about them. When I knew right and wrong the change was instant and mind blowing.
I’m listening to this while I’m playing with my mal. She will be two in two months and one things that you said really jumped out at me…you said that they don’t do good at a kennel. I had to leave for 4 days and left her at a local kennel that I had previously checked on and that my friends love so I had no reservations leaving her there. I was completely wrong. The only other time I was away from my dog was when she was with her trainer for two weeks. I did a ton of research and had two trainers help me with her when she was younger. She amazing and I would trade her for the world. When k got back from those 4 days and walked up to her in the kennel she was in the corner and she looked broken. I opened the door and called her but she just stayed in the corner. I went to pet her and she put her ears back and growled at me. I was fucking devastated. Here is a dog that has done nothing but love me and protect me and my family and I put her in solitary confinement for 4 days. After a couple minutes she realized who I was and came to me. It took her a couple days before she was back to normal. This was no fault of the kennel, it was all my fault. I will never leave her in a kennel again. You are absolutely correct with everything you said. Had I not worked with these dogs in the military and as a cop I would have never gotten one. When people say “they are crazy” they are right. They are super crazy and all in a good way. They will go above and beyond for you as long as you will do the same for them. Thank you Robert for all the things you do and for all the free information you give out.
Get your kid to do some research to tell you why you are entirely right. It's a great teaching moment. Not suggesting she get one but for education purposes only, purely as her research what kind of Mal could she get as a hypothetical question, and what what would her days be like managing this dog? If your kid aims to train for particular canine sports she could get a suitable one. Not all Mals are high drive. It's still a specialist type dog. You progress to a point where that high drive responsiveness is desirable for specific training and work. If she does the research herself, she will really understand your point. You will both be glad you didn't get such an intense breed.
Factly true. Dedication and training discipline. Needs a field to run and be free to secure perimeter. A very jealous dog. He wants to be king and be recognized as king of all dog breeds, otherwise, the other dog will be killed if it tries to challenge its strength. Very loyal to the master but must recognize others as related to the master. Constant training requires that.
Hi . I think its because im autistic but ive always been able to communicate with animals, with body language and spoken. When i met my ex British military trained but failed malinois, he'd been given to a complete narcissist and chained , beaten and starved, i knew i had to save him and in a period of two years, ive turned Bear, who is now called Major , into a calm , model dog who trusts me and i him. He has become confident and social. When I met him on that chain he was savage, fearful, extremely reactive and wanted to bite all men, luckily im a woman. He really is the best dog ive ever owned, the bond is like no other. Hes not destructive or chewy anymore ,I do totally understand what you are saying though , very intense breed , unbelievably smart . He loves my cats , they sleep together and he protects the chickens and loves children. He is 10 . I guess im very very lucky , i feel lucky every day with this boy , he does a superb job protecting me and my home.
That's a nice ending. We'll done. I grew up outside the school systems often and lived in places abroad. I learnt body language and I think this is what you are describing. I'm not autistic but I'm sure you're using this universal language plus a bit of especially.. 😮
I adopted a Belgian Malanois that was 5 yrs old. I had no idea what breed he was when I adopted him. There's so much to say on the subject. I did realize the first night that I was going to be the omega in our 3 member pack. He pushed me off my side of the bed the first night in our home. It was the most amazing experience. He became my friend and companion. He protected me and taught me so much. He passed away after 11 yrs . He was almost 16. I was lucky. He was intense .. however he was trained as omewhat when I got him. He walked 5 times a day.. blind. Til the day he died. I miss him and I'm sad.
As an advanced dog trainer of 18 plus years in Southern Cali, I've worked with so many breeds, mixes, & all sorts of clients. Most clients have no clue what they're getting into (which keeps me in business) with a high drive dog. Robert makes a great point! Do your homework people BEFORE getting ANY dog.
This breed is definitely a dedicated lifestyle. You adapt to their needs 24/7. My girl will turn 9 this year, and I do not regret any social invitations that I declined. I would rather spend my time with my best friend.
We got incredibly lucky with our Belgian Malinois. She's the calmest Malinois I've ever heard about. She does have a lot of the typical traits of a Belgian Malinois (she's very alert, very protective, very intelligent and obedient), but she doesn't seem to have high drive. She was a rescue, listed as a German Shepherd/Husky mix (which confused me, because she was nothing like either breed).
Thank you for sharing! This is so important for people to understand. I have a 4 year old Malinois and yes, she is constant work. My father was a dog trainer and I love devoting the time to train dogs, but most everyone I know would not be able to handle this breed. You cannot tire them out and they need both physical and mental exercise. I do professional bite work with her and even though she is well trained, well socialized, and good with kids, she is intense 24/7! If she gets it in her mind to go after something (running the fence line to antagonize the neighbor's dogs is a favorite), there's no stopping that initial switch. I am always faced with new challenges and I want everyone to be aware of the heavy amount of labor involved in owning one of these magnificent dogs. Perhaps if you're not the type of person that could handle a military lifestyle and routine day after day, consider carefully that this breed is likely not the right choice for you.
I couldn’t agree more with you. I rescued a Belgian puppy 2 months ago that was chain up 24/7, all I got was a picture of this little puppy cover in dust and didn’t know what I was getting into but I committed to the huge responsibility, it’s a lot of constant work, I have the time to work with her and I’m learning so much about her. They have such a personality like any other dog I known. I watch your videos and I love them. Thank You so much!
Totally agree with this…”Working dogs, especially Belgian Malinois are not for the average dog owner and for sure not for the person with no dog ownership experience.” As I am this person. New dog owner All I can say is thank you to Robert’s training website., like you I went through so many questions like an interview with the proviso that if ever he got to much they would take him back no questions over a year later I’m still in contact with the breeder. A ton of work, a ton of learning, mistakes made yes but he is mine and my families life project. Every day is a training day no matter what. Structure structure structure. I would never advise anyone I know to get this breed.
Well said! I had a Mali for the best 16 years of my life. We got her from a friend as a puppy they rescued but wasn't working out in their small condo. I thought she was a German Shepard pup and we just had lost a dog so we took her. We got her used to people and our kids right away and she was delightful but head strong. Fortunately, so was I. I am old now and for that reason will probably never have another. When she was about three years old a neighbor said she was a Malinois and that opened another whole avenue of interest. But, she is long gone and I still miss her. We would leave her with my daughter and her family, which included two pit bulls. When I asked how she was they said, "she was the boss of the back yard!" Maybe I'll get a golden retriever........🙄
I referred my retired special forces veteran to your videos as a supplement to our basic obedience. All you say is true. He bought her from a third generation breeder, before getting V.A. approval, in spite of medical conditions. (another issue,entirely) She blew through kindergarten and obedience like a champ. Client followed training with 100% dedication. By 1 year, I was out of my physical abilities for her. Finding your channel as a springboard from our baseline work was the blessing I needed to let go, and a blessing for him to learn from an authority. She's 3 now and 95 pounds. He has a Drone photography business and she helps him work, and considers the elder Maine Coon Cat her playmate. (Cat gave her a few claw hooks to the nose early on). Had he asked, this would not have been the dog I'd have recommended. His determination, regimented, disciplined lifestyle and superior willingness to go the extra mile have made this match. He spares no expense on food, training aids and toys and veterinary checks. She cost $5000 from the breeder, and that is a drop in the bucket of what he has sacrificed to keep her trained and maintained. He's a *rare breed* of humankind.
I'm a U.S. Navy law enforcement veteran. Worked with these dogs. A friend of mine who is not military and was not even a dog person bought a Belgian Malanoir and he looked exactly like you stated in this video. He had no control of the dog and it terrorized his neighborhood when it got loose allot. He finally decided to give it away and I took it. Now I have all this bad behavior to correct in a four year old dog.
Hi! I love your videos about dog training and really appreciate this one about Malinois. You are doing an excellent job at helping the breed by discouraging people who are not knowledgeable. I am a Malinois owner, this one is my second one and I am absolutely thrilled with the breed! I got my first Malinois, by accident , I had never heard about the breed. My shepherd passed away and I was looking for another companion. I went on Kijiji to adopt a dog . I found Lucy, 9 months old: she turned out to be the best pet I had ever owned: affectionate, excellent with people and children, easy to train...but extremely energetic. I took her to obedience classes and discovered then that she was a Malinois. I did some research and learned a lot about the breed. Lucy died of cancer. I then looked for another Malinois to rescue but couldn't find one. Finally, I purchased a puppy, from a breeder, who usually sells his dogs to the police. He and I talked a lot over the phone before I got the puppy. I explained who I was, why I wanted a Malinois, what I was planning to do with the dog and that I didn't want the "protection" part of the training. Then I got her. Wonderful dog, excellent temperament but twice as energetic as Lucy. Since I got her, everyday we go on an adventure. She is extremely well socialized with other dogs and people. I have engaged her in sheep herding and we are learning tracking together. She also swims and I am looking into agility classes. If ever she is not occupied enough one day, she destroys things around the house or in the yard!!! However, I knew exactly what I was getting into and I love her to death. Your videos will keep us busy this coming winter as there are no limits to what my young dog is able to learn. Thanks a lot for the knowledge you are sharing!
Thank you so much for being an ambassador for the breed and helping with us in the rescue trying to adapt to the super increased influx of the belgians! more people DO need to go shark diving!!! Help American Belgian Malinois Rescue out - too many pups, not enough fosters or adopters. We are at our max and need all the help we can get!
Thanks, for advocating in the very best interests of the malinois, and their working breed counterparts. And, for ALL dogs. A decade ago, I learned from researching working breeds, and from volunteer shelter work, that mals require an intense dedication to training and structure throughout their years, exactly as you advise here. It took nearly 3 years after the death of our rescued GSD/lab girl to decide to get our breeder-sourced (AKC reg) WLGSD. She's an excellent k9 pal, because we invest the care (and connections) that her high energy bloodlines respond best to. Her respected WLGSD breeder required us to abide by a detailed contract. We happily send photos and feedback to the breeder each 8 weeks, now, after sending the updates every 4 weeks from the time of her adoption at 9 weeks through 2 years.
I rescued a Mal back in July. I have been watching Belgian Malinois' for the last 10 years and finally pulled the trigger. I went and picked him up on a whim to find out later that he had ZERO obedience training, was an outside dog and he was extremely malnourished. Luckily I was able to take 3 weeks of vacation and put in hours and hours everyday working him. I consulted local trainers, books, and of course Robert Cabral's videos. I do live in an apartment, but I have him trained very well at this point and we hit the local dog parks daily. He has a job to do every day. It's still not easy and I still work with him daily, I've even lost 45lbs since I've gotten him. I love this dog, but I will NEVER get another one, EVER!
@@armandadeveigamonteiro8457 I wouldn't say mischief, but very restless, very annoying, and will not leave me alone. Sometimes he will put his mouth on things like he's going to chew on it just to see my reaction, but I've never gone more than one day without working him.
I rescued a malinois that was chained to a tree for his year and a half life, the horrible owner couldnt handle this beautiful dog and wanted to put him on the streets. I was not going to allow that, i am a dog lover, so i decided to take him with me without knowing his breed. The poor baby was full of fleas, scared of everything, never been out of that house so everything was new to him, he didnt even know how to jump and makes no noises at all. It was horrible, my husband and I notice right away how smart and loving he was. Its being a month now and he has learned how to jump, he starting to express himself, he learned how to walk side by side, slowly introduced him inside the house and respects house boundaries, he is getting trained and he has learned so much in so little time, he now looks so gorgeous and we can see and feel he is so grateful. I do agree this breed has a lot of energy and need lots of attention and work, thank God my husband and I have the time to take him to the park run and trained him twice a day plus house training. It is constant work. His name is Juju
Saw the title and gave it an immediate thumbs up. Haven't even watched it yet, but SO glad to see you and others educating "civillians" on the realities of Mal ownership! I own a Mal mix who's a shelter rescue. We think he's mixed with a Lab. He is the love of my life and just my speed. All the intelligence, strength, desire to please and loving devotion of both breeds... and content to be a couch potato or an athlete thanks to the Lab. Mal's are stunning creatures. But I couldn't do right by a pure bred. I leave that to my military friends.
I love watching with all yours dogs. Your puppy looks like he is just doing what he was bred to do and loving every minute of it. I have no intention in getting one. Way too dog much for me. I was really lucky when got my first and only GSD 35 years ago. She came from a backyard breeder. She turn out to be the sweetest, easy going dog. I then fell into a schutzhund club when she was 6 months. Thank goodness. As sweet as she was I had never trained a dog and I was in over my head. I was the dumb person that got a GSD, just because I thought I loved them. The club was the best thing that ever happened to me. They were all very serious about the whole package. I trained with the club for 3 years. I was never able to put a title on her because she would not bite unless she felt I was threatened. I did not want to push her and our club president agreed. He felt she was too soft and would not want to put that much pressure on her. I never got another GSD again because I knew I could never give it the time it needed while raising 2 small kids. I am retired now and still won’t get a GSD. We had a variety of easy going, loved children kind of pet dogs while my kids were growing up. I got an Australian shepherd as a retirement present to myself. My daughter has 2 and they lead incredibly active outdoor lives. I am absolutely loving training a dog again. I belong to a training club again. Besides obedience, we do parkour, nose work and man tracking, lots of hiking, an occasional neighborhood walk that ends at dog friendly pub. He is the perfect dog for me. He loves people and dogs and he is a goofy clown. The same as his mother. I live on a lake and have a pedal boat that he swims beside while herding our resident ducks. It would have been a nightmare trying train an Aussie and raise children. I think most people way underestimate how much time and energy a working or herding dog will take. They have all sorts romantic ideas from tv and media about all the great things they will do together. Never once considering how much time and effort it takes to get a dog to that point. I honestly think they assume puppies will just train themselves. Then they end up with frustrated reactive dog that quite likely end up in a shelter.
I rescued a Malinois- and my life revolves around this dog. Even our Police Department returned their Malinois K9 because he bit four of their officers. I have people ask me all the time where they can get a dog like mine because he is well trained- they have no idea how much work ethic on my part it takes. I guarantee they don’t have it.
As a 30 year ScH and French Ring Malinois trainer/competitor..... i absolutely agree with all of this video. Malinois are trending as a 1ST dog. Almost all Malinois I ever worked lived in a kennel. The have jobs and that’s it. I had them as personal dogs with exhaustive training. Think about a higher drive Lab. You rock Robt
Hi I’ve been watching a few of your shows, and I would like to say it was nice to here you say DONT get this type of dog. I was a breeder of Rough Collies from the year 1983 to 2000 but after watching the Malinois they are a different kettle of fish. So I take my hat of to you for putting the time into them. I do hope people listen to you so these dogs don’t end up in a kennel for the rest of there lives. I have no Rough Collies now but have taken on a 5 year old GSD she’s fantastic watching every move I make, I am her 5 home and can’t see why people would won’t to get rid of her,she will be with me hopefully for many years.
I agree with the majority of what you're saying. Not just anyone should get a Mali. I actually did get my dog through Craigslist. I guess I got lucky because I thought it out months before. Also, the kids who had her couldn't handle her at 4 months old. Im so glad I 'rescued' her from them. They lived in an apartment. I owned a Mali before for 10 years. I waited 2 years before getting this one after my last one passed. She is now 8 months old. Extremely intelligent. I have to train her all day. I also take her to training. I am exhausted most of the day. She is high energy, high maintenance. You have to give these dogs a job. She's amazing and loyal but takes so much work. I forgot to mention she comes from a police line. Her dad is now a retired police dog. So yeah, I got lucky with Craigslist but I definitely have to work her and train her at least 4 times a day. Thank God my husband helps out otherwise I couldn't give her as much attention as she requires.
"I have to train her all day." Aha! Another human successfully trained by a Malinois to provide endless mental and physical stimulation. The issue with the first owners was that the Malinois couldn't train them. Happens all too often. Your Mali is lucky she was rescued by you through Craiglist---and nothing wrong with that.
@@kevin.keen.socialmedia Thanks so much for your reply. Yes, I took her to an empty dog park so she had the space to run and she loves to swim when I go swimming. I just taught her how to pull an inflated boat, well technically she trained herself on that one. Lol. Glad you get it.
This really needed talking about. It's bad enough with working line Collies and GSD's getting dumped as they are to strong willed for most. My whole day is working with my high drive Collie. She was a very difficult puppy and hours and hours of training which is every day, rain ,snow . Without that she is restless and unfulfilled. Structure is everything to these very high drive dogs. Very well dealt with and I really hope people don't go out and buy Malinois . Due to people seeing my well trained Collie , they are buying Collie pups thinking they will be like Zed, they have no idea just how much work has gone into her. As I see them growing they are already out of control. Thanks Robert, great topic.
Tanks so much for the important of this video. The shelters in our country are full of them. I shred your voice I think you’re doing a great thing. Your voice is so important…
I liked the podcast, thank you. I heard recently that Mals have a different DNA which classes them differently. I don't know how true this is, but it would make sense. I attended class at Michael Ellis' school in Rohnert Park CA, he breeds them, and the pups in our class, at 12 weeks were so ahead of every other breed in class. Super impressive dogs. There'sa trainer, Stonnie Dennis in Kentucky that I follow, that is respectful of Mals, and has dedicated mulitple videos to why not to get one. He works with them for clients, but explains their differences in situ. Thank you also for bringing up not getting a dog thru Craig's list or the like. Stick to AKC referrals who are picky as to who gets their dog of any breed, shelters & rescues. Thanks again.
Robert, Thank you! I have owned Belgians for the last 20 years and I can atest to you your points of interest and concerns. All are spot on. Additionally, all of my dogs have tested me and the requirements within the home. I have had bouts of resistence with the bed and have had countless battles with who belongs to who. All of my dogs herding instincts will create problems for others. He is like big brother and is NEVER off about what is going on in the house. When my wife is reading in the bedroom and I am watching TV; he sits in the hallway in order to observe and manage the house activities. He misses nothing. Training is a daily requirement even if you think you are not in a training mode. I love the breeds! Still it requires a constant companionship 24 hours a day. Remember, you are the dogs property and you must consistently remind them with love and resolve about who pays the bills.
I owned a BELGIAN GERMAN SHEPHERD from when he was a Pup til he passed away at 13 yrs old. He was a long hair German Shepherd. My wife and I loved him with all our heart! He was a very loving, gentle, smart, dedicated,loyal, very protective of us and our daughters! We miss him everyday. 4 months ago our neighbor's Female short hair German Shepherd had pups and our neighbor said we could have our pick of the litter so we chose a male pup. He is now 6 months old. There is a huge difference between a Long hair German Shepherd and a Short hair German Shepherd!!! We quickly found this out! The Long hair German Shepherds are more laid back, easier to train, listen to you more intently, very protective of your family and if it is a male then he will be very protective of your wife and daughters ! Our 6 month-old male Short hair German Shepherd is doing well but I have seen a huge difference especially in the personality! Our pup is very loving and I'm sure that in time he will become a great dog too it's just that you must put in the extra time and training and patience !! Like Robert said be very sure before you buy ONE!!
You touched upon so many points about Malinois in particular and taking on a dog in particular that you made me laugh, nod and almost cry at the same time. I have had a 10 year old rescue malinois for almost a year now. He has made major improvements with his behaviour and is delightful. But! It has been hard hard hard work that almost a year later we can see a happy dog and the benefits. We are lucky that I can work from home but his attention and focus on me is intense. It has taken him months to acknowledge my wife and we do not regret taking him on at all and he makes us laugh so much, but please, please never ever get a dog and especially one as sensitive as a malinois without planning and thinking it through. It is full on intense in a nice way. We have no behaviour problems but it takes full commitment and if you cannot honestly make that commitment please walk away
I could not agree more. I adopted my daughter from social care and it was quite rightly a lengthy process with many, many checks. When I adopted my rescue dog (a street dog (podenco) from Spain who had a v difficult start) from foster care in the UK, I needed a similar amount of personal and home checks and evidence of experience, evidence that he would not be left alone for long periods etc with a signed contract that I would have to give the dog back to the rescue centre if it didn't work out. I could not have been happier with this. This should be the way it is for all dogs /animals, no matter how difficult they are to train. You should have to prove your commitment, stability, ability to care for them and to be a suitable match. Love this channel and your approach. Thank you 😍
I have my Husar from a rescue actually. He is a Malinois-type. I still have not enough knowledge of Malinois, but I am doing my best. I do my best to be an aware owner and Friend to my Friend. Because I care for him even though he is aggressive to other dogs. We work on it day by day, Husar teaches me patience and "obedience", hahaha 😁 and the most important - he teaches me lowliness. He is the only one living teaching me lowliness because he is worth it. Robert, I am just a layman who cares about her special Dog. We have help from our trainer (Mrs. Danusia just rules ❤️), from books of Mrs. Zofia Mrzewińska (Polish dog trainer, Expert who has a blog describing her life with her Malinois) and You. Thank you that you are here and do this important stuff. Gods bless you and give you all the best 🙂 In Poland there is a huge trend for buiyng Malinois. Due to "Epic movies from TH-cam"... (sic!) And then those dogs end up on streets (like my Husar) or shelters. I can't understand it... Why people can be so irresponsible? Stupid? Thanks to you I can share my thoughts with others educating the that Raspberry (im Polish "Malinois" sounds similar to "malina" which is "Raspberry" 😛) and please be sure I am very, very, VERY glad that you are here and do your job. 🙂 Greetings!🐾❤️🐾
I attest to everything this guy is saying. I have lived it. I got my mal in Belgium, my country. Worked with a trainer for months, and exercised her a ton. She grew up with kids and loved to play with kids, but we had to have her train intensively for bikes, cars etc... (training I was personally participating in). she destroyed countless things., etc etc etc. They look amazing when properly handled. It’s another story in your home. They are WORK dogs, they NEED a job; a walk in the park doesn’t qualify, neither tossing the stick a couple of times. And they are pretty much a one person dogs.
As a disabled vet (Military Police) had it not been for the training I would have never been ready to handle my Malinois. I adopted a 5 y/o medically retired police dog due to an injury and she's an AWESOME addition to my home. That aside EVERYTHING Robert is talking about is 110% spot on. If your weak or flaky at heart and can't or won't put in 100 with this kind of dog they're not what you really want. Its just like buying a car with payments you can't afford, your gonna be miserable when the reality sets in.
We have a Malinois. He's in training to be a trailing search and rescue dog. There's 4 Mali's in our regular group and 3 working line German Shepherds. There's also a short haired pointer and a mad Red Setter. By Malinois standards he's pretty calm but he's still very hectic to deal with. My primary job is pretty much to calm him down and slow him down when trailing. I grew up with Bull Terriers and I've had a German Shepherd but this is a whoooole new level. Make no mistake we absolutely love him. When he goes to the ball filled beach in the sky I will cry big big tears. But. He will be my one and only Malinois. He goes for a 5km run 3 times a week. In addition to that he goes to trailing training twice a week. He also gets walked every day and we continuously do bits of obedience work with him. We have 3 adults in the house and 2 of us work from home. Without us working from home and doing all of those things life with him would be completely impossible. And truthfully I don't think we are doing enough. They are amazing animals. But they can easily be amazingly bad.
Thank you for giving sound solid TRUTHFUL ADVICE... The care and wellbeing of the dog is what is important... I train and have akita and tell people the same thing thank you again for speaking the truth..
I've got a rescue Mali, spend the first 6 months of her life chained up to a tree. Shes a great dog, super human friendly and extremely obedient. She trained now when we are out and meet other walkers to go to the side of the path, sit, and wait for them to pass. :-). Typical of her breed her prey drive is through the roof, shes great with other dogs now, that took a lot of reconditioning, at first she would attack on sight. Small animals though, dear, cats, and especially rabbits, got to be constantly aware of my surroundings when out with her and keep on top of it. Not a breed for everyone but then IMO 50% of dog owners shouldn't have dogs.
I have 4 show Line malinois, and they're a handful....love them dearly but a handful yes! They're a tough dog...play rough.....redesign your yard lol...and much more...on the plus side...awesome dogs! But know your breed before you get any dog!
My hubby has done 3 generations of German Shepards. He has great general knowledge about owning different dog breeds whether it be 1 or having a pack including training. He has expert knowledge on German Shepards. Prior to the Belgian M getting into the news, he started doing his research bc he was thinking that's the breed he wanted. However, even he has decided against it bc we don't have the lifestyle for it
I've had Belgians for over 30 years. They keep me very active! I walk them an hour every day, I train all the time. They do everything. I thought as I was getting older, I'd get a Pyr Shep as they were smaller. They were even more high energy. If you get a Belgian, you'd better have at least 2 hours a day to work with them.
Have a 6 month old Malinois and 4 children. He’s a hand full and it was difficult to teach him to stop jumping and tugging on the kids clothing but he’s doing amazing now. Still a little destructive but he gets lots of attention and time! He has rearranged our yard and brings sticks ect into the back room of the house... and loves running through our fenced wooded area.
I agree 100% with everything you said. I went into PetLand to look for some supplies locally. They sell “AKC“ puppies ($4500 ea) I have 2 GSDs & saw a couple filling out a credit application for a GSD. We talked for awhile about the breed, need for exercise, training etc. hopefully they listened! As I looked at all the dogs for sale, I saw a Belgian Malinios pup. I asked the manager about the process to get (buy) the pup. Just the cost (cash or credit)! I explained a little about the breed needing a qualified handler who knows how to train them, he just shook his head. I felt so bad for the pup.! It’s a good chance for the pup to fail.
Robert Cabral that store needs to be shut down. I saw them trying to sell a neo to a young girl who never owned a dog. I asked them what their personality was like to see if they even knew anything about them. They had no idea but kept telling me “how big he is going to be” and that was he sales pitch. No questions asked. They do this with mals all the time too as I see them listing them in ads online. The people who work there are sales people when they should be interview people making sure they are the right owners. This is without getting into how horrible they treat the animals and all the other problems there. I wish we could find a way to really get them shut down.
I totally agree with your sentiments Robert,regarding the Malinois, I was in an honoured position to take charge of a German Shepard pup, whose GGrandmother was the last German Shepherd to win Crufts as Supreme Champion. Due to its breeding and excellent care received by kennel hands at HeelaWay Kennels in Canterbury UK, the dog who was called Cracker by the staff, no doubt due to its eagerness to learn, and fabulous looks, was collected by me at 8 weeks. He was house trained in ONE day and was always eager to train and learn. He won the first Obedience Show he was entered in, and a great many others along his long life. Although I had owned dogs in the past, I also learnt the responsibility I had with a dog that NEEDED and excelled in constant challenges. I have thought about taking charge of a Malinois, but even with my experience in dog handling am reluctant to see that from happening. So for the average person to own one as a family PET, I am in complete agreement with Robert, this should NOT be encouraged.
Good info in this video, I have a 8month old half belgain malinois half Dutch Sheppard, and he is alot to handle. I've had dogs all my life but never one like this. But I did the research and I am devoted to his training. I work with him almost every day and take him to the dog park nearly every day since I live in a apartment. He is sweet and lovable but when it's time to work he works and plays hard as well. Share this video everywhere people need to know these dogs are not for the couch potato or some one that cant handle the independence of this breed.
Omega oil supplements help regulate hyper behaviour. Its in fish oils. My vet put us on nutracoat capsules. It heals brains. Very useful in dogs breeders cross for looks and mix temperament up. And in humans too. They get a soft healthy skin coat and brain..
Well I've already gotten my Jolly's by having a Belgian Malinois back in the 1970s when I was a Deputy Sheriff. Barney was trained as a Navy Shore Patrol K9. From there he went to Oakland PD. I got him after he left Oakland PD. A very impressive dog with a nose for drugs and best partner I ever worked with.
I’ve had my Malinois for 7 months. She goes goes goes goes! She eats eats eats eats eats. She rests then she goes goes goes goes! And then she eats eats eats eats eats...
Great advice Roberts to push people NOT to take a Malinois 👍 I myself have more than 25 years experience with Malinois and am very aware how much effort and energy these dogs have and ask for. They are for sure the Ferraris under the dogs 😁😁 . On this moment I have 2 Malinois and spend daily from early morning 05.00 until evening with them.Also my wife runs daily several km with the dogs in the morning. They are very time consuming and have loads of energy. But you get loads of love back and they are a pleasure in our live.
Excellent suggestion to give to a military dog retirement organization. I live in rural Alabama and got what is probably a shep/mal x. Our story is a very long one (as I suspected it would be when I got him--totally unsocialized at a yr old). From the get-go, he could get out of the wire crate I got for him. He could undo additional latches I added around the door perimeter. The problem solving mentality alone spells trouble for the typical pet owner. I have amateur dog training background, got some email advice from a woman who runs a shepherd rescue (essentially ramp up the obedience), and I've taken him through two classes (again amateurs) and will probably take him through another--and another. Though I certainly got in over my head, I still hate to think how his story would have gone wrong if he had ended up with someone with even less experience than I have. I continue to have to be observant with him. He will never be safe with my cats and I even hesitate to try him with herding because when he becomes fixated on something it can be a physical battle to redirect him. Thankfully he's not people aggressive or particularly dog aggressive. Phew! What a challenge it has been--and I won't be ever be taking on another like this again. Definitely ego deflating not inflating. When people admires his good looks, I just say thank you but in my head I'm thinking, "you have no idea what comes with it." That good looks also makes it very difficult to rehome him because of that faux first attraction people have. And they see my control of him in selective situations (without having any idea how careful I am being--or the backup commands/plans) and think that he is a push button dog. NOT--as if any dog is.
Jennifer Pearson I live in Alabama with a working line Terv. I got her to work, but would not have done it if I didn't already have a great behaviorist who has experience with the breed. She owns one as well. Please contact me if you want her info.
I have a European Doberman and love each one I’ve had. They’re definitely a lot of work and I feel they’re worth the work that they require. Unfortunately, I do know of some that have been put down because the owners couldn’t handle them and they became dangerous. That breaks my heart. To think that someone didn’t do their homework on what’s required of a particular breed and that ignorance caused that dog to be put down really disturbs me. They have amazing potential. But that potential can only be brought out from people truly committed to putting in the necessary time for training and giving the dog what they require. People always complement my Doberman. But I tell them that It takes a lot of work. They don’t come to you like that. It’s not about just owning the dog for the times you want to be with it. It’s a lifestyle.
Excellent info Robert. Hey, I'm in over my head w a GSD. I cannot imagine a Malinois. Between the pandemic and my own lack of knowledge, I need some serious help to get this gal on track and she's almost 4! Any help to save my baby would be awesome!
I couldn’t agree with you more, Robert. These dogs are not for everyone. My first experience with Malinois was during time in Army Special Operations. From then on, I’ve wanted one as a pet and for IPO. However, it wasn’t until nearly 10 years later that I finally adopted a Malinois. I wanted to be at the proper point in my life to adequately care for and train the dog. We vetted several breeders and toured a few facilities. We finally decided to go with a breeder that was able to place us with a dog from a world champion bloodline that met our exact purpose. We also chose this breeder as he is a world class trainer and within driving distance. We sat on a waiting list nearly a year for this exact pup and are thrilled have him. One thing that you forgot to mention was the cost of these dogs once you own them. We feed raw and it’s expensive. The working dog gear for the field (e.g., kennel, harness, sleeves, etc.) are an investment. These dogs work and unfortunately that can result in injury and vet visits. And finally training - a good coach to train the handler cost a lot of money and for good reason.... Keep up the great content!
I have to say he’s correct. I got one when I was working, and although extremely intelligent they need dedication and patience and I was heartbroken that I had to give it away. Now I’m retired, and it took me 4-5 months of constant training, 7 days a week and she’s my baby, I love her, and she never leaves my side. She’s my best friend.
My Malinois is a rescue. I was told he was a German Shepherd mix, but it quickly became apparent he was not. DNA test confirmed he is 90% Malinois and 10% GSD. I guess that is technically a GSD mix haha! Anyway, Im committed and your videos have been VERY helpful! He's been a lot of work, but we are doing great!
I also adopted a GS "purebred" working line. Turns out she is short legged and heavy boned like GS, But face and tail are malinous-like. I suspected she's mixed due to her physical details and her other dog aggressive reactivity and boundless energy which led me to test her DNA. Waiting for results. She is bi-color patterned. Sweet with very high prey drive and constantly scanning on walks and in car. We are jogging/walking 2 hours daily. Am retired and with her 24/7. I have learned sooooo much from you, Mr. Cabral! Thank you. I love this dog and am committed to making this her last stop in life. She's 4 and a good girl who loves her work-- Squirrel Patrol of the property! Lol. Listening and following commands and always wants to please. ❤
My son has Belgian malinois, he needs her for security for his job... I look after her sometimes, she is 100 mile an hour, never stops, always looking, scanning, alert, vigilant, beautiful lady but totally NOT a pet. My son got her from a registered breeder, he had to be interviewed for 2 hours to see he was of sound mind, competent and commitment and his location and home was suitable. Please don't get one if you can't commit. I have Labrador now that's a family dog!
Responsible. I love the breed, but I know I can’t handle one. You reinforced that for me. My grandmother used to have GSD. I wanted a guard dog, but I understand what you are saying. Thanks for being straight up and loving the dogs. I am not good with dogs but I love them. I do watch the videos of Malinois. It’s now enough for me.
Amador Bullies AND people who love care for dogs like myself, check out my big dobe on my channel , are the ones that need and love and are saviors of the DOG
Mine took work!! But his a champ with our family! Yes it cost 2500.00 for training!! So yes you must invest YOUR life for his respect! I concur!! People do not get one unless you like hiking ... running ! And yes about growing up? Our dogs mom bit off an ear off of her one pup!! That’s them! You spend money and work EVERYDAY!! Great dog!!! I’m retired so I’m with him all day! 2-3 1/2 hour walks then my son gets home and takes him out for 1-2 hours of full out running and playing with his friends dog in a 1/2 acre fenced in area !! That is what they need. Thanks for rescuing them! And we get him around as many dogs as possible
Very True advice, I got one without any knowledge and it’s a sharp learning curve. I’m studying, excercising & training every day. She is a superb dog but she is life changing and constant demand for training . I refuse to fail her.
This was well informed ... so true! Not spefically military/police but working dog ... oh yes! Nice vid! Didn't see it throught till the end ... Your vid should be Malinois 101 ... fantastic dogs but Work .. work .. work. Only issue, "don't get a Malinois' ... just make sure you tick all the boxes ... they can be appartment companions ... but give 'm work and time! My Mal was a lapdog (for one hour a day). Best (probably) unbiased vid I've seen ... there's really good stuff in here!
Said to myself when they released the picture, "great, I wonder how many uneducated people will want a malinois now". You're doing a great service to put people off the idea
Good advice, from an expert. I HAVE OWNED TRAINED AND BRED, ROTTWEILERS, BUT AFTER 20YEARS, DOING THE RESEARCH, DECIDED THE MALINOIS WOULD BE TOO MUCH FOR ME.
I think we all really need you Robert. I love your honestly about the Malinois. I LOVE MINE TO BITS but really, he was a pain in the ass. So I can relate to every-thing you say. These are great breeds, but definitely not for everyone. Just a little 5% of the people in the world I guess 🤷🏼♀️ Lucky though to be one of those few people, because I had the time, patience and COFIDENCE to work with this dog. Another great video, will deffo share!
Thank you very much for this video Rob. I rescued a working line Mal and its been a ton of work. I've. been working with a protection sport trainer and if I didn't have the financial resources and free time she would have been way too much. I had a working line GSD prior to her (which is why I was contacted to rescue my Mal) and they are very different animals. I've seen folks with out of control Mals and GSDs even before the Wick/Bin Laden/Al-Bagdadi [sp?] phenomenon and have been very worried that this breed would get "popular" and attract unwanted legislative attention as well as do damage to the breed writ large. Thank you again, and keep up the great work on your channel. One more thing,... maybe if people are thinking about getting a Mal or GSD they should volunteer at a rescue for the breed. Might give them an idea of what they are thinking of getting into prior to making a 10-15 year commitment....
Nice feedback. Just for your information. The city Maline is the French name of the city Mechelen. It is in the Flemisch part of Belgium. We call the dog in Flemisch "Mechelse herder" or "Mechelaar". Guess the name "Mechelaar" was harder to pronounce in English than "Malinois". "Belgian Malinois' sounds for us very weird. It is like saying an "American New Yorker". What you are saying in the video is spot on.
I have an adult 3 years old Malinois. He is a great dog, but I do agree that they are pretty active. I had pitbulls, and Malis are way above pitbulls in activity level. I live in Brazil, and security it is a great issue around here, and my Mali help to keep my familiy safe, but the manegement of a trained Malinois among children must be pretty straight foward. There is no place to "maybes". Congrats for the video!!
HI Robert, very grateful for your videos. We seem to have gotten into something (that may be a malinois) and your videos are helping, or at least comforting. There was a dog that was going to be put down with parvo at the clayton county pound, that my partner decided to rescue, a really skinny weak little german shepard, she was very sick and couldn't hold anything down, we picked her up and she was really sweet, she actually crawled from the back of the station wagon to rest her head on my arm when were driving away from the pound. Needless to say that made me really committed to her. We gave her iv hydration and antibiotics at home for a few days and then she got an ungodly amount of energy and she has been great since...but I think she may not be a german shepard. She is now 50 pounds, skinny frame, short strong fur, black face and doesn't behave like the shepherds I've had - sort of like a shepard with ADD, by which I mean she can hyper-focus but is often overwhelmed by her energy. She loves to bite and initially I was doing a lot of wrestling and bite play with her, but she found a stray neighbor's dog on our property and herded it off with butt nips (fortunately the owner didn't see) so now no tooth to human skin contact for her. We've had family GSDs and mixes, but I've been looking around online and I'm wondering if she's a malinois or part malinois. A friend said she may be a mix or working line (I didn't know what working line meant until this all came up.) We're training her, but we only have an hour or so a day to really focus one on one with her...is she going to be too much for us? It would kill me to give her up now but she may be useful to somebody with work. The vet thinks she's 2 from her tarter, she didn't have any training when we got her.
I cut out tugger games soon as I got my rescue gsd home. And anything that begins to be a wrestle...please don't tell anybody..I suspect a bit of Mali...she needs good 6 hrs playtraining a day out on a large acreage. She needs this like oxygen. Any less and she gets frustrated. I mix mental in it..but it's the p.e.component that keeps her grounded.
I've had mine for a yr and a half. Got her at 9 months old. Name is Rose. She is beautiful, full of energy, social and smart. The key to keeping her corralled, I have found is lots of outside activity. We take long walks, she has a huge backyard, toys. You must work with them. They pick up what you want easily. I love my girl and couldn't imagine not having her. So it worked out for me. If you can't spend time with one as I have described, it might not be a dog you should own.
Thank you for such an important message. It seems EVERY breed that becomes popular, whether via Westminster, media or movies, is destined for ruin. I recently adopted an adult GSD from the military, I'm a LVT for 20+yrs in ECC, I only work 2 days/wk w/dog training experience ( I've adopted several adult GSD's over the past 30 years). I have close friends that are k9 trainers & handlers in law enforcement & the military and I STILL deliberately evaluated my ability to handle a Mal when the military offered a choice of GSD or Mal. I've always wanted a Mal but working 4 days/wk would NEVER do w/a Mal. So again THANK YOU for your brutal honesty.❤️
New to the breed. Have a mouthy 9 weeker who is waiting to enrol in assistance training. His eagerness to learn has staggered me. I am wiped out every day. I go for a minimum of a 5k every day so he’ll have the walks, but I think he is more exhausted when I work his brain
I have 6 Maligators. I had my last litter a year and two months ago. I have raised them for about 15 years. I trained all my dogs before I sold them and school the new owners on good and the bad. Most of my dogs ended up went to police officers who wanted one for their own. I have had to take back one over the years. Everyone who got one of my dogs had no problems. I started the training when they could walk. It takes work but the rewards are very rewarding. My pack minds me, I say sit and where ever the dog in the house sits where they are. I do have from time to time they do get into the trash. They are all trained in police training. I have one Vet who will treat and maintain my dogs health. He knows I can handle my dogs. My dogs love the family and we love them back. I would not trade one for all the money in the world. I do agree with you that a Mal owner has to have a ton of patients and knowledge of an aggressive breed. I am not cool but I did serve in special forces and have a great knowledge of the breed. My dogs do scrap from time to time but one hana (which is a Korean word) I use hana to mean no or stop. I didn't want to use German words because everyone uses German and my wife is Korean. My female came from the Sarak line and the father came from the Donner line. My dogs are the best. I did sign a contract for every dog I bought. I had to show the sellers my military record. I do think you are a bit hard on the public, some people can handle one dog if the new owners listen and call me when they have problems. Not all people are stupid. I do handle them almost like a drill instructor. To burn off their energy when I take them in my huge back yard and have an 8 ball and have trained them to chase the dog who has the ball and they will chase until they until they are exhausted. This makes them behave in the house. I fixed momma dog and daddy dog and kept 4 of the girl dogs from my last litter. They are a joy, no two are the same personality wise. They are pranksters. and they protect my home or me or my wife when we take one for a ride to the store with us. While with us in public the mind and will only get aggressive when the magic word is used. Some people should not have them but I do feel the same amount of people could have ONE if they listen to what the dogs are trained to do. I always follow up at 6 months after someone got one of my dogs. So you are right but I think you are thinking all people are stupid and irresponsible. Good loving owners who have patients and will listen will do just fine with one.
I agree with you. I have a Belgian and she is great. Most sensible people can handle a Belgian imo. Also Belgians will learn to relax more if you don't exercise or train them as much. I am not saying you shouldnt try and give your dog exercise everyday but even if you only go for a short walk with your dog every couple days or whatnot. You do the best you can and the dog will learn to live with you. Maybe not all Belgians will learn to calm down as much as ours has but I hear other people say the same thing with their Belgian. As long as your pup is healthy happy and well taken care and you are a decent dog owner from my personal experience their is a fair amount of people capable of owning a Belgian. It's just wise to know you might need 30 min to get their exercise in everyday especially when you first get them. This is just my opinion. Amd I am am thankful and lucky to have a beautiful Belgian x trained protection dog that we got off Craigslist. She literally knows how to bite but we got her super cheap and the owner did t tell us she was a protection dog! Super sketchy but I thank the LORD for her! She is great!
This can be applied to all working dogs. I've spent many years surrounded with dobermans (at the time i didnt have the time or space for one), read a lot, watched a lot of training videos. I dare to say i knew what i was in for BUT i still ran in to problems i had no idea how to solve. For the first year of his life we spent close to 6 hrs a day in total outside working on various things, after all of that he takes a 30 min nap and can do it all over again. Teaching him how to behave indoors took a while too and i dont mean potty training. Educate yourself people or you will lose a lot of nerves, money and time.
Great video and the message is on point as always. I have a male gsd who has crazy prey drive and is very dominant which turns to aggression if the other dog doesn’t immediately submit. No joke it doesn’t matter if it’s a 5lb poodle or a 150lb mastiff he puffs up and goes for the mount, if he gets it he’s satisfied if he has to fight for it he will without hesitation and with a ferocity like I’ve never seen. You wouldn’t know this about him if you met him today(4.5 years old) because I love him and I’m committed to him as much as I am anything else in my life. I get up early and I stay up late to work, train and exercise him. I paid a lot of money for training and the proper tools for training. I researched for weeks before I decided on a trainer. He has over 20 years experience training military and police k9s. He taught me how to teach Niko how to behave. Prior to that I got bit so hard by a 12 week old puppy that I had blood running down my arm on a regular basis. I made many mistakes along the way but I refused to give up and I have an amazing dog and I have enjoyed every minute of it. I have a stronger bond with him than with any other dog I’ve ever had, I’m 38 and have had many dogs. My point is listen to this man. These types of dogs are not easy and can be very dangerous and destructive if you don’t do the extensive work to make it a successful partnership.
Here in Belgium many people have one of the belgian shepherd types as a family / guard dog. The standard says that they may not be agresive dogs .The working line/competition dogs are often agressive like pistol with a senssitive trigger. The Tervuren , Groenendal and family friendly line Malinois are fine with a family at conditions that people attend puppie classes as soon the dog is in order of vaxinations and take advise from a trainer as soon as a problem arrise ,live with the family and is involve in it's activity every day and is given about two hours of running and brist walking every day until their energy level is down at about 7years old then at least one and a half hours each day.
Great advice Robert. Unfortunately, the breed is already becoming well known. I know 2 breeders who sale their puppies to just about anyone and I hate it for the breed. Hopefully the people who get these dogs as pets get what I call "a watered down version". I would say most people aren't ready for an even average drive Malinois. Keep up the great work, I enjoy your videos and your expertise is very useful.
Ditto in my country ! This breed was recently introduced and initially it was not made available to the civilians. But as soon as it was made available to the public , I started seeing a lot of backyard breeders on youtube selling puppies raised in deplorable conditions making me question the very fate of these dogs and also the mindset of those who would buy them .
Thank you for this video. Any dog that is sensationalized like the Dalmatian, the Collie, and any dog everybody wants. However, people criticize the videos of the Malinois working and think these things that these dogs do are cruel. No. They are bred to do these things. If you own one you have a full time job.
Utik is my second Malinois. All dogs are different. Balto my first one was a more relaxed dog and eager to learn. Utik my actual Mao. Is a lot more stubborn dog. Both came from European breeder. A Malinois is a dog that you always have to train all time when you walk her is training time, no just casual walking. food time is training also. Doggie park is training time. And of course and is my opinion you have to give your Mao a purpose Obedience. Protection, tracking, ring sports. You have to keep your Malinois mind busy not just physical activity... like I always say a Malinois is a lifestyle. Robert Cabral. Thank you for this video. As always you’re amazing.
My grandmother had 3 terveurens in succession, and they each made wonderful family companions. They first I believe was a rehoming. They lived on a dairy farm, but they were never used for herding or so. They sure were intense, but since there were always people around, there was always stimulation around. They all got along great with the cats on the farm, and easily trained. Maybe they are bred a bit different in Europe (Sweden) than in the US. I do love the Belgian shepherds, especially the Tervueren. Sadly my life situation does not permit me to have one. I will work towards having such an environment at a later stage in life.
As the son of cop, I grew up around retired K9's. A few Malinois also. Theyre loyal, protective, highly intelligent and athletic. He is absolutely correct about them but theyre still my favorite breed. Even tho no cat survived walking through our yard. Ever.
Thank you for putting so many of these videos on for people. I'm not real sure that they will head your warnings, but I am grateful. I rescued a Dutch Shepherd that had been abandoned and had run in the woods with her litter mates for 6 months. After trying to reach Cesar Millan and get her another home, I made the commitment to keep her. Since that time, and before I decided to keep her, I worked with a professional who trains protection dogs. He has been my mentor since. I love the dog dearly, but she is, as you say, a massive challenge everyday. We call her the meat bullet. And all the things that you say about these dogs are true. I must make sure that she has constant structure, and that I am alpha, because she has killed two dogs and two cats before I got her. She is dog aggressive to the point that both she and I ended up in the emergency room when she attacked a pitbull and put her in the hospital. That was after she tore her own nose in half getting through a real Cyclone Fence pen gate. So, though I do not have much faith in the people that are watching these videos that don't have these dogs, and I do not have much faith that these people will listen to you, please keep up the good work
"If you're not cool without a Belgian Malinois you are not gonna be cool with a Belgian Malinois" . Haha, I love it ! Words of wisdom Robert :-)
He better trade mark that quote
What if you’re already cool?
@@benjaminfink8520 If he gets a mal and if he cannot handle it, he is going to become jerk again.
My Mal embarrassed me rightfully so a few times in front of a lot of people because I was in over my head until I learned about them. When I knew right and wrong the change was instant and mind blowing.
I’m listening to this while I’m playing with my mal. She will be two in two months and one things that you said really jumped out at me…you said that they don’t do good at a kennel. I had to leave for 4 days and left her at a local kennel that I had previously checked on and that my friends love so I had no reservations leaving her there. I was completely wrong. The only other time I was away from my dog was when she was with her trainer for two weeks. I did a ton of research and had two trainers help me with her when she was younger. She amazing and I would trade her for the world. When k got back from those 4 days and walked up to her in the kennel she was in the corner and she looked broken. I opened the door and called her but she just stayed in the corner. I went to pet her and she put her ears back and growled at me. I was fucking devastated. Here is a dog that has done nothing but love me and protect me and my family and I put her in solitary confinement for 4 days. After a couple minutes she realized who I was and came to me. It took her a couple days before she was back to normal. This was no fault of the kennel, it was all my fault. I will never leave her in a kennel again.
You are absolutely correct with everything you said. Had I not worked with these dogs in the military and as a cop I would have never gotten one. When people say “they are crazy” they are right. They are super crazy and all in a good way. They will go above and beyond for you as long as you will do the same for them.
Thank you Robert for all the things you do and for all the free information you give out.
Yup! My 10yo daughter fell in love with this dog and I said absolutely not! We just don't have the time the dog NEEDS.
giabyul that’s called being a responsible parent. Good job!! Wish more people would say no to their kids
That's funny, I too have a 10 year old daughter that has been begging for one of those for like a year now. Keep telling her NFW.
Get a senior Malinois, I work with a rescue for them, there are old couch potatoes that need homes.
My friend has one. Even trained they are alot of work. And cannot be locked up in a house or yard.
Get your kid to do some research to tell you why you are entirely right. It's a great teaching moment. Not suggesting she get one but for education purposes only, purely as her research what kind of Mal could she get as a hypothetical question, and what what would her days be like managing this dog? If your kid aims to train for particular canine sports she could get a suitable one. Not all Mals are high drive. It's still a specialist type dog. You progress to a point where that high drive responsiveness is desirable for specific training and work. If she does the research herself, she will really understand your point. You will both be glad you didn't get such an intense breed.
I think everyone thinking to get any dog needs to watch this. Every dog has pros and cons and it is a life long commitment. 👍🏾👍🏾
Absolutely agree!
Factly true. Dedication and training discipline. Needs a field to run and be free to secure perimeter. A very jealous dog. He wants to be king and be recognized as king of all dog breeds, otherwise, the other dog will be killed if it tries to challenge its strength. Very loyal to the master but must recognize others as related to the master. Constant training requires that.
Hi . I think its because im autistic but ive always been able to communicate with animals, with body language and spoken. When i met my ex British military trained but failed malinois, he'd been given to a complete narcissist and chained , beaten and starved, i knew i had to save him and in a period of two years, ive turned Bear, who is now called Major , into a calm , model dog who trusts me and i him. He has become confident and social. When I met him on that chain he was savage, fearful, extremely reactive and wanted to bite all men, luckily im a woman. He really is the best dog ive ever owned, the bond is like no other. Hes not destructive or chewy anymore ,I do totally understand what you are saying though , very intense breed , unbelievably smart . He loves my cats , they sleep together and he protects the chickens and loves children. He is 10 . I guess im very very lucky , i feel lucky every day with this boy , he does a superb job protecting me and my home.
That's a nice ending. We'll done. I grew up outside the school systems often and lived in places abroad. I learnt body language and I think this is what you are describing. I'm not autistic but I'm sure you're using this universal language plus a bit of especially.. 😮
I adopted a Belgian Malanois that was 5 yrs old. I had no idea what breed he was when I adopted him. There's so much to say on the subject. I did realize the first night that I was going to be the omega in our 3 member pack. He pushed me off my side of the bed the first night in our home. It was the most amazing experience. He became my friend and companion. He protected me and taught me so much. He passed away after 11 yrs . He was almost 16. I was lucky. He was intense .. however he was trained as omewhat when I got him. He walked 5 times a day.. blind. Til the day he died. I miss him and I'm sad.
As an advanced dog trainer of 18 plus years in Southern Cali, I've worked with so many breeds, mixes, & all sorts of clients. Most clients have no clue what they're getting into (which keeps me in business) with a high drive dog. Robert makes a great point! Do your homework people BEFORE getting ANY dog.
This breed is definitely a dedicated lifestyle. You adapt to their needs 24/7. My girl will turn 9 this year, and I do not regret any social invitations that I declined. I would rather spend my time with my best friend.
Hear hear. Better company and more intelligent than most people...I have turned down all invitations this Xmas...😮
We got incredibly lucky with our Belgian Malinois. She's the calmest Malinois I've ever heard about. She does have a lot of the typical traits of a Belgian Malinois (she's very alert, very protective, very intelligent and obedient), but she doesn't seem to have high drive.
She was a rescue, listed as a German Shepherd/Husky mix (which confused me, because she was nothing like either breed).
Thank you for sharing! This is so important for people to understand. I have a 4 year old Malinois and yes, she is constant work. My father was a dog trainer and I love devoting the time to train dogs, but most everyone I know would not be able to handle this breed. You cannot tire them out and they need both physical and mental exercise. I do professional bite work with her and even though she is well trained, well socialized, and good with kids, she is intense 24/7! If she gets it in her mind to go after something (running the fence line to antagonize the neighbor's dogs is a favorite), there's no stopping that initial switch. I am always faced with new challenges and I want everyone to be aware of the heavy amount of labor involved in owning one of these magnificent dogs. Perhaps if you're not the type of person that could handle a military lifestyle and routine day after day, consider carefully that this breed is likely not the right choice for you.
I couldn’t agree more with you. I rescued a Belgian puppy 2 months ago that was chain up 24/7, all I got was a picture of this little puppy cover in dust and didn’t know what I was getting into but I committed to the huge responsibility, it’s a lot of constant work, I have the time to work with her and I’m learning so much about her. They have such a personality like any other dog I known. I watch your videos and I love them. Thank You so much!
Totally agree with this…”Working dogs, especially Belgian Malinois are not for the average dog owner and for sure not for the person with no dog ownership experience.” As I am this person. New dog owner All I can say is thank you to Robert’s training website., like you I went through so many questions like an interview with the proviso that if ever he got to much they would take him back no questions over a year later I’m still in contact with the breeder. A ton of work, a ton of learning, mistakes made yes but he is mine and my families life project. Every day is a training day no matter what. Structure structure structure. I would never advise anyone I know to get this breed.
Well said! I had a Mali for the best 16 years of my life. We got her from a friend as a puppy they rescued but wasn't working out in their small condo. I thought she was a German Shepard pup and we just had lost a dog so we took her. We got her used to people and our kids right away and she was delightful but head strong. Fortunately, so was I. I am old now and for that reason will probably never have another. When she was about three years old a neighbor said she was a Malinois and that opened another whole avenue of interest. But, she is long gone and I still miss her. We would leave her with my daughter and her family, which included two pit bulls. When I asked how she was they said, "she was the boss of the back yard!" Maybe I'll get a golden retriever........🙄
Most people don’t take time to make their labradors good dogs let alone a malinois.
I referred my retired special forces veteran to your videos as a supplement to our basic obedience. All you say is true. He bought her from a third generation breeder, before getting V.A. approval, in spite of medical conditions.
(another issue,entirely) She blew through kindergarten and obedience like a champ. Client followed training with 100% dedication. By 1 year, I was out of my physical abilities for her.
Finding your channel as a springboard from our baseline work was the blessing I needed to let go, and a blessing for him to learn from an authority. She's 3 now and 95 pounds. He has a Drone photography business and she helps him work, and considers the elder Maine Coon Cat her playmate. (Cat gave her a few claw hooks to the nose early on). Had he asked, this would not have been the dog I'd have recommended.
His determination, regimented, disciplined lifestyle and superior willingness to go the extra mile have made this match. He spares no expense on food, training aids and toys and veterinary checks. She cost $5000 from the breeder, and that is a drop in the bucket of what he has sacrificed to keep her trained and maintained. He's a *rare breed* of humankind.
Good for you in acting as an advocate for this breed of dog by educating people about the full challenges of ownership. Keep up the good work!
I'm a U.S. Navy law enforcement veteran. Worked with these dogs. A friend of mine who is not military and was not even a dog person bought a Belgian Malanoir and he looked exactly like you stated in this video. He had no control of the dog and it terrorized his neighborhood when it got loose allot. He finally decided to give it away and I took it. Now I have all this bad behavior to correct in a four year old dog.
How’d it go fam?
@@RambofromWarzoneI second this, want to know how everything turned out just curious
3rd🤚🏽
Hi! I love your videos about dog training and really appreciate this one about Malinois. You are doing an excellent job at helping the breed by discouraging people who are not knowledgeable. I am a Malinois owner, this one is my second one and I am absolutely thrilled with the breed! I got my first Malinois, by accident , I had never heard about the breed. My shepherd passed away and I was looking for another companion. I went on Kijiji to adopt a dog . I found Lucy, 9 months old: she turned out to be the best pet I had ever owned: affectionate, excellent with people and children, easy to train...but extremely energetic. I took her to obedience classes and discovered then that she was a Malinois. I did some research and learned a lot about the breed. Lucy died of cancer. I then looked for another Malinois to rescue but couldn't find one. Finally, I purchased a puppy, from a breeder, who usually sells his dogs to the police. He and I talked a lot over the phone before I got the puppy. I explained who I was, why I wanted a Malinois, what I was planning to do with the dog and that I didn't want the "protection" part of the training. Then I got her. Wonderful dog, excellent temperament but twice as energetic as Lucy. Since I got her, everyday we go on an adventure. She is extremely well socialized with other dogs and people. I have engaged her in sheep herding and we are learning tracking together. She also swims and I am looking into agility classes. If ever she is not occupied enough one day, she destroys things around the house or in the yard!!! However, I knew exactly what I was getting into and I love her to death. Your videos will keep us busy this coming winter as there are no limits to what my young dog is able to learn. Thanks a lot for the knowledge you are sharing!
The Lamborghini is not a car you drive to the grocery 😂👏 love how your dog was just hanging out listening to ya like we are
Thank you so much for being an ambassador for the breed and helping with us in the rescue trying to adapt to the super increased influx of the belgians! more people DO need to go shark diving!!! Help American Belgian Malinois Rescue out - too many pups, not enough fosters or adopters. We are at our max and need all the help we can get!
KUDOS TO YOU FOR PROTECTING THE BREEDS INTRESTS !!
Thanks, for advocating in the very best interests of the malinois, and their working breed counterparts. And, for ALL dogs. A decade ago, I learned from researching working breeds, and from volunteer shelter work, that mals require an intense dedication to training and structure throughout their years, exactly as you advise here. It took nearly 3 years after the death of our rescued GSD/lab girl to decide to get our breeder-sourced (AKC reg) WLGSD. She's an excellent k9 pal, because we invest the care (and connections) that her high energy bloodlines respond best to. Her respected WLGSD breeder required us to abide by a detailed contract. We happily send photos and feedback to the breeder each 8 weeks, now, after sending the updates every 4 weeks from the time of her adoption at 9 weeks through 2 years.
I rescued a Mal back in July. I have been watching Belgian Malinois' for the last 10 years and finally pulled the trigger. I went and picked him up on a whim to find out later that he had ZERO obedience training, was an outside dog and he was extremely malnourished. Luckily I was able to take 3 weeks of vacation and put in hours and hours everyday working him. I consulted local trainers, books, and of course Robert Cabral's videos. I do live in an apartment, but I have him trained very well at this point and we hit the local dog parks daily. He has a job to do every day. It's still not easy and I still work with him daily, I've even lost 45lbs since I've gotten him. I love this dog, but I will NEVER get another one, EVER!
Yeah we walk 2 miles in the morning, 3 miles in the evening, go to the dog park every night, and train for at least 30min a day
Chris Runge I walk mine 5 miles per day, plus I do training and ball work.
Chris Runge OMG that is a lot if you don’t do those activities with him with you will he start getting into mischief?
@@armandadeveigamonteiro8457 I wouldn't say mischief, but very restless, very annoying, and will not leave me alone. Sometimes he will put his mouth on things like he's going to chew on it just to see my reaction, but I've never gone more than one day without working him.
I rescued a malinois that was chained to a tree for his year and a half life, the horrible owner couldnt handle this beautiful dog and wanted to put him on the streets. I was not going to allow that, i am a dog lover, so i decided to take him with me without knowing his breed.
The poor baby was full of fleas, scared of everything, never been out of that house so everything was new to him, he didnt even know how to jump and makes no noises at all. It was horrible, my husband and I notice right away how smart and loving he was. Its being a month now and he has learned how to jump, he starting to express himself, he learned how to walk side by side, slowly introduced him inside the house and respects house boundaries, he is getting trained and he has learned so much in so little time, he now looks so gorgeous and we can see and feel he is so grateful. I do agree this breed has a lot of energy and need lots of attention and work, thank God my husband and I have the time to take him to the park run and trained him twice a day plus house training. It is constant work.
His name is Juju
Bless you for rescuing your dog. Rescues are the best dogs 😍
Saw the title and gave it an immediate thumbs up. Haven't even watched it yet, but SO glad to see you and others educating "civillians" on the realities of Mal ownership!
I own a Mal mix who's a shelter rescue. We think he's mixed with a Lab. He is the love of my life and just my speed. All the intelligence, strength, desire to please and loving devotion of both breeds... and content to be a couch potato or an athlete thanks to the Lab.
Mal's are stunning creatures. But I couldn't do right by a pure bred. I leave that to my military friends.
Me too😮
I love watching with all yours dogs. Your puppy looks like he is just doing what he was bred to do and loving every minute of it. I have no intention in getting one. Way too dog much for me.
I was really lucky when got my first and only GSD 35 years ago. She came from a backyard breeder. She turn out to be the sweetest, easy going dog. I then fell into a schutzhund club when she was 6 months. Thank goodness. As sweet as she was I had never trained a dog and I was in over my head. I was the dumb person that got a GSD, just because I thought I loved them.
The club was the best thing that ever happened to me. They were all very serious about the whole package. I trained with the club for 3 years. I was never able to put a title on her because she would not bite unless she felt I was threatened. I did not want to push her and our club president agreed. He felt she was too soft and would not want to put that much pressure on her.
I never got another GSD again because I knew I could never give it the time it needed while raising 2 small kids. I am retired now and still won’t get a GSD. We had a variety of easy going, loved children kind of pet dogs while my kids were growing up. I got an Australian shepherd as a retirement present to myself. My daughter has 2 and they lead incredibly active outdoor lives. I am absolutely loving training a dog again. I belong to a training club again. Besides obedience, we do parkour, nose work and man tracking, lots of hiking, an occasional neighborhood walk that ends at dog friendly pub. He is the perfect dog for me. He loves people and dogs and he is a goofy clown. The same as his mother. I live on a lake and have a pedal boat that he swims beside while herding our resident ducks. It would have been a nightmare trying train an Aussie and raise children.
I think most people way underestimate how much time and energy a working or herding dog will take. They have all sorts romantic ideas from tv and media about all the great things they will do together. Never once considering how much time and effort it takes to get a dog to that point. I honestly think they assume puppies will just train themselves. Then they end up with frustrated reactive dog that quite likely end up in a shelter.
I rescued a Malinois- and my life revolves around this dog. Even our Police Department returned their Malinois K9 because he bit four of their officers. I have people ask me all the time where they can get a dog like mine because he is well trained- they have no idea how much work ethic on my part it takes. I guarantee they don’t have it.
Martial Artist - our city of 120K plus is not enough action for this breed- they acquired GSD’s- it’s a better fit
My friends and neighbors say the same thing about my gsd. I tell them it has taken years to get there and we’re still training every day.
Send me your address I must send you a medal asap
Sounds like a very unstable dog
restlessguardian - high drive means high work ethic. It ain’t for sissies.
As a 30 year ScH and French Ring Malinois trainer/competitor..... i absolutely agree with all of this video. Malinois are trending as a 1ST dog. Almost all Malinois I ever worked lived in a kennel. The have jobs and that’s it. I had them as personal dogs with exhaustive training. Think about a higher drive Lab. You rock Robt
Hi I’ve been watching a few of your shows, and I would like to say it was nice to here you say DONT get this type of dog. I was a breeder of Rough Collies from the year 1983 to 2000 but after watching the Malinois they are a different kettle of fish. So I take my hat of to you for putting the time into them. I do hope people listen to you so these dogs don’t end up in a kennel for the rest of there lives. I have no Rough Collies now but have taken on a 5 year old GSD she’s fantastic watching every move I make, I am her 5 home and can’t see why people would won’t to get rid of her,she will be with me hopefully for many years.
I agree with the majority of what you're saying. Not just anyone should get a Mali. I actually did get my dog through Craigslist. I guess I got lucky because I thought it out months before. Also, the kids who had her couldn't handle her at 4 months old. Im so glad I 'rescued' her from them. They lived in an apartment.
I owned a Mali before for 10 years. I waited 2 years before getting this one after my last one passed. She is now 8 months old. Extremely intelligent. I have to train her all day. I also take her to training. I am exhausted most of the day. She is high energy, high maintenance. You have to give these dogs a job. She's amazing and loyal but takes so much work.
I forgot to mention she comes from a police line. Her dad is now a retired police dog. So yeah, I got lucky with Craigslist but I definitely have to work her and train her at least 4 times a day. Thank God my husband helps out otherwise I couldn't give her as much attention as she requires.
"I have to train her all day." Aha! Another human successfully trained by a Malinois to provide endless mental and physical stimulation. The issue with the first owners was that the Malinois couldn't train them. Happens all too often. Your Mali is lucky she was rescued by you through Craiglist---and nothing wrong with that.
@@kevin.keen.socialmedia Thanks so much for your reply. Yes, I took her to an empty dog park so she had the space to run and she loves to swim when I go swimming. I just taught her how to pull an inflated boat, well technically she trained herself on that one. Lol. Glad you get it.
We buy from crigslist too. Not everyone can afford or need a high-end bloodline dog.
This really needed talking about. It's bad enough with working line Collies and GSD's getting dumped as they are to strong willed for most. My whole day is working with my high drive Collie. She was a very difficult puppy and hours and hours of training which is every day, rain ,snow . Without that she is restless and unfulfilled. Structure is everything to these very high drive dogs.
Very well dealt with and I really hope people don't go out and buy Malinois . Due to people seeing my well trained Collie , they are buying Collie pups thinking they will be like Zed, they have no idea just how much work has gone into her. As I see them growing they are already out of control. Thanks Robert, great topic.
Tanks so much for the important of this video. The shelters in our country are full of them.
I shred your voice I think you’re doing a great thing. Your voice is so important…
I liked the podcast, thank you. I heard recently that Mals have a different DNA which classes them differently. I don't know how true this is, but it would make sense. I attended class at Michael Ellis' school in Rohnert Park CA, he breeds them, and the pups in our class, at 12 weeks were so ahead of every other breed in class. Super impressive dogs. There'sa trainer, Stonnie Dennis in Kentucky that I follow, that is respectful of Mals, and has dedicated mulitple videos to why not to get one. He works with them for clients, but explains their differences in situ. Thank you also for bringing up not getting a dog thru Craig's list or the like. Stick to AKC referrals who are picky as to who gets their dog of any breed, shelters & rescues. Thanks again.
Robert, Thank you! I have owned Belgians for the last 20 years and I can atest to you your points of interest and concerns. All are spot on. Additionally, all of my dogs have tested me and the requirements within the home. I have had bouts of resistence with the bed and have had countless battles with who belongs to who. All of my dogs herding instincts will create problems for others. He is like big brother and is NEVER off about what is going on in the house. When my wife is reading in the bedroom and I am watching TV; he sits in the hallway in order to observe and manage the house activities. He misses nothing. Training is a daily requirement even if you think you are not in a training mode.
I love the breeds! Still it requires a constant companionship 24 hours a day. Remember, you are the dogs property and you must consistently remind them with love and resolve about who pays the bills.
I owned a BELGIAN GERMAN SHEPHERD from when he was a Pup til he passed away at 13 yrs old. He was a long hair German Shepherd. My wife and I loved him with all our heart! He was a very loving, gentle, smart, dedicated,loyal, very protective of us and our daughters! We miss him everyday. 4 months ago our neighbor's Female short hair German Shepherd had pups and our neighbor said we could have our pick of the litter so we chose a male pup. He is now 6 months old. There is a huge difference between a Long hair German Shepherd and a Short hair German Shepherd!!! We quickly found this out! The Long hair German Shepherds are more laid back, easier to train, listen to you more intently, very protective of your family and if it is a male then he will be very protective of your wife and daughters ! Our 6 month-old male Short hair German Shepherd is doing well but I have seen a huge difference especially in the personality! Our pup is very loving and I'm sure that in time he will become a great dog too it's just that you must put in the extra time and training and patience !! Like Robert said be very sure before you buy ONE!!
You touched upon so many points about Malinois in particular and taking on a dog in particular that you made me laugh, nod and almost cry at the same time. I have had a 10 year old rescue malinois for almost a year now. He has made major improvements with his behaviour and is delightful. But! It has been hard hard hard work that almost a year later we can see a happy dog and the benefits. We are lucky that I can work from home but his attention and focus on me is intense. It has taken him months to acknowledge my wife and we do not regret taking him on at all and he makes us laugh so much, but please, please never ever get a dog and especially one as sensitive as a malinois without planning and thinking it through. It is full on intense in a nice way. We have no behaviour problems but it takes full commitment and if you cannot honestly make that commitment please walk away
I could not agree more. I adopted my daughter from social care and it was quite rightly a lengthy process with many, many checks. When I adopted my rescue dog (a street dog (podenco) from Spain who had a v difficult start) from foster care in the UK, I needed a similar amount of personal and home checks and evidence of experience, evidence that he would not be left alone for long periods etc with a signed contract that I would have to give the dog back to the rescue centre if it didn't work out. I could not have been happier with this. This should be the way it is for all dogs /animals, no matter how difficult they are to train. You should have to prove your commitment, stability, ability to care for them and to be a suitable match. Love this channel and your approach. Thank you 😍
I have my Husar from a rescue actually.
He is a Malinois-type. I still have not enough knowledge of Malinois, but I am doing my best. I do my best to be an aware owner and Friend to my Friend. Because I care for him even though he is aggressive to other dogs. We work on it day by day, Husar teaches me patience and "obedience", hahaha 😁 and the most important - he teaches me lowliness. He is the only one living teaching me lowliness because he is worth it.
Robert, I am just a layman who cares about her special Dog.
We have help from our trainer (Mrs. Danusia just rules ❤️), from books of Mrs. Zofia Mrzewińska (Polish dog trainer, Expert who has a blog describing her life with her Malinois) and You. Thank you that you are here and do this important stuff. Gods bless you and give you all the best 🙂
In Poland there is a huge trend for buiyng Malinois. Due to "Epic movies from TH-cam"... (sic!)
And then those dogs end up on streets (like my Husar) or shelters. I can't understand it... Why people can be so irresponsible? Stupid?
Thanks to you I can share my thoughts with others educating the that Raspberry (im Polish "Malinois" sounds similar to "malina" which is "Raspberry" 😛) and please be sure I am very, very, VERY glad that you are here and do your job. 🙂
Greetings!🐾❤️🐾
I attest to everything this guy is saying. I have lived it. I got my mal in Belgium, my country. Worked with a trainer for months, and exercised her a ton. She grew up with kids and loved to play with kids, but we had to have her train intensively for bikes, cars etc... (training I was personally participating in). she destroyed countless things., etc etc etc. They look amazing when properly handled. It’s another story in your home. They are WORK dogs, they NEED a job; a walk in the park doesn’t qualify, neither tossing the stick a couple of times. And they are pretty much a one person dogs.
As a disabled vet (Military Police) had it not been for the training I would have never been ready to handle my Malinois. I adopted a 5 y/o medically retired police dog due to an injury and she's an AWESOME addition to my home. That aside EVERYTHING Robert is talking about is 110% spot on. If your weak or flaky at heart and can't or won't put in 100 with this kind of dog they're not what you really want. Its just like buying a car with payments you can't afford, your gonna be miserable when the reality sets in.
We have a Malinois. He's in training to be a trailing search and rescue dog. There's 4 Mali's in our regular group and 3 working line German Shepherds. There's also a short haired pointer and a mad Red Setter. By Malinois standards he's pretty calm but he's still very hectic to deal with. My primary job is pretty much to calm him down and slow him down when trailing.
I grew up with Bull Terriers and I've had a German Shepherd but this is a whoooole new level. Make no mistake we absolutely love him. When he goes to the ball filled beach in the sky I will cry big big tears. But. He will be my one and only Malinois.
He goes for a 5km run 3 times a week. In addition to that he goes to trailing training twice a week. He also gets walked every day and we continuously do bits of obedience work with him. We have 3 adults in the house and 2 of us work from home. Without us working from home and doing all of those things life with him would be completely impossible. And truthfully I don't think we are doing enough.
They are amazing animals. But they can easily be amazingly bad.
Thank you for giving sound solid TRUTHFUL ADVICE...
The care and wellbeing of the dog is what is important...
I train and have akita and tell people the same thing thank you again for speaking the truth..
On my second Mal. Everything you said is spot on if not understated. Thank you for all of your work and time rescuing the breed..
This is why i love this guy Robert Cabral you are all words of HOPE.....
I've got a rescue Mali, spend the first 6 months of her life chained up to a tree. Shes a great dog, super human friendly and extremely obedient. She trained now when we are out and meet other walkers to go to the side of the path, sit, and wait for them to pass. :-).
Typical of her breed her prey drive is through the roof, shes great with other dogs now, that took a lot of reconditioning, at first she would attack on sight. Small animals though, dear, cats, and especially rabbits, got to be constantly aware of my surroundings when out with her and keep on top of it. Not a breed for everyone but then IMO 50% of dog owners shouldn't have dogs.
I have 4 show Line malinois, and they're a handful....love them dearly but a handful yes! They're a tough dog...play rough.....redesign your yard lol...and much more...on the plus side...awesome dogs! But know your breed before you get any dog!
Show line?
The working line would be like putting nitro in your show line.
@@TCJACJ2000 Right? Show lines are nothing like the working line (as they should be bred) Mals!
Saddens me to know that Mals have entered the show ring !
My hubby has done 3 generations of German Shepards. He has great general knowledge about owning different dog breeds whether it be 1 or having a pack including training. He has expert knowledge on German Shepards. Prior to the Belgian M getting into the news, he started doing his research bc he was thinking that's the breed he wanted. However, even he has decided against it bc we don't have the lifestyle for it
I've had Belgians for over 30 years. They keep me very active! I walk them an hour every day, I train all the time. They do everything. I thought as I was getting older, I'd get a Pyr Shep as they were smaller. They were even more high energy. If you get a Belgian, you'd better have at least 2 hours a day to work with them.
My gsd gets 6 plus a day...hrs...and any less or a missed pm...she has total keeness next day...luckily I'm a workaholic too😂
Have a 6 month old Malinois and 4 children. He’s a hand full and it was difficult to teach him to stop jumping and tugging on the kids clothing but he’s doing amazing now. Still a little destructive but he gets lots of attention and time! He has rearranged our yard and brings sticks ect into the back room of the house... and loves running through our fenced wooded area.
I agree 100% with everything you said. I went into PetLand to look for some supplies locally. They sell “AKC“ puppies ($4500 ea)
I have 2 GSDs & saw a couple filling out a credit application for a GSD. We talked for awhile about the breed, need for exercise, training etc. hopefully they listened!
As I looked at all the dogs for sale, I saw a Belgian Malinios pup. I asked the manager about the process to get (buy) the pup. Just the cost (cash or credit)! I explained a little about the breed needing a qualified handler who knows how to train them, he just shook his head. I felt so bad for the pup.! It’s a good chance for the pup to fail.
So sad. Good for you to speak up. I hate pet stores that sell puppies. Totally wrong.
If that pup was in a pet store it's already in trouble. Sad.
Robert Cabral that store needs to be shut down. I saw them trying to sell a neo to a young girl who never owned a dog. I asked them what their personality was like to see if they even knew anything about them. They had no idea but kept telling me “how big he is going to be” and that was he sales pitch. No questions asked. They do this with mals all the time too as I see them listing them in ads online. The people who work there are sales people when they should be interview people making sure they are the right owners.
This is without getting into how horrible they treat the animals and all the other problems there. I wish we could find a way to really get them shut down.
I totally agree with your sentiments Robert,regarding the Malinois, I was in an honoured position to take charge of a German Shepard pup, whose GGrandmother was the last German Shepherd to win Crufts as Supreme Champion. Due to its breeding and excellent care received by kennel hands at HeelaWay Kennels in Canterbury UK, the dog who was called Cracker by the staff, no doubt due to its eagerness to learn, and fabulous looks, was collected by me at 8 weeks. He was house trained in ONE day and was always eager to train and learn. He won the first Obedience Show he was entered in, and a great many others along his long life. Although I had owned dogs in the past, I also learnt the responsibility I had with a dog that NEEDED and excelled in constant challenges. I have thought about taking charge of a Malinois, but even with my experience in dog handling am reluctant to see that from happening. So for the average person to own one as a family PET, I am in complete agreement with Robert, this should NOT be encouraged.
Thx for sharing this, but that name Al’ bagdaddi is hilarious 🤭 they’re all so beautiful & impressive! 👍 well done sir!
Good info in this video, I have a 8month old half belgain malinois half Dutch Sheppard, and he is alot to handle. I've had dogs all my life but never one like this. But I did the research and I am devoted to his training. I work with him almost every day and take him to the dog park nearly every day since I live in a apartment. He is sweet and lovable but when it's time to work he works and plays hard as well. Share this video everywhere people need to know these dogs are not for the couch potato or some one that cant handle the independence of this breed.
Omega oil supplements help regulate hyper behaviour. Its in fish oils. My vet put us on nutracoat capsules. It heals brains. Very useful in dogs breeders cross for looks and mix temperament up. And in humans too. They get a soft healthy skin coat and brain..
Well I've already gotten my Jolly's by having a Belgian Malinois back in the 1970s when I was a Deputy Sheriff. Barney was trained as a Navy Shore Patrol K9. From there he went to Oakland PD. I got him after he left Oakland PD. A very impressive dog with a nose for drugs and best partner I ever worked with.
I have a 7 month old malanois she is a total sweetheart! Best decision I’ve ever made. 🙃
Yes, worked out for me too. One just must spend time with them. They bond to you and will learn to understand what you say to them.
I’ve had my Malinois for 7 months. She goes goes goes goes! She eats eats eats eats eats. She rests then she goes goes goes goes! And then she eats eats eats eats eats...
So is mine ! No problem at all . Dont know what the fuss is about . She is just joy and training her has been super fun !
Great advice Roberts to push people NOT to take a Malinois 👍 I myself have more than 25 years experience with Malinois and am very aware how much effort and energy these dogs have and ask for. They are for sure the Ferraris under the dogs 😁😁 . On this moment I have 2 Malinois and spend daily from early morning 05.00 until evening with them.Also my wife runs daily several km with the dogs in the morning. They are very time consuming and have loads of energy. But you get loads of love back and they are a pleasure in our live.
Im so glad you made this video!!!!
Excellent suggestion to give to a military dog retirement organization. I live in rural Alabama and got what is probably a shep/mal x. Our story is a very long one (as I suspected it would be when I got him--totally unsocialized at a yr old). From the get-go, he could get out of the wire crate I got for him. He could undo additional latches I added around the door perimeter. The problem solving mentality alone spells trouble for the typical pet owner. I have amateur dog training background, got some email advice from a woman who runs a shepherd rescue (essentially ramp up the obedience), and I've taken him through two classes (again amateurs) and will probably take him through another--and another. Though I certainly got in over my head, I still hate to think how his story would have gone wrong if he had ended up with someone with even less experience than I have. I continue to have to be observant with him. He will never be safe with my cats and I even hesitate to try him with herding because when he becomes fixated on something it can be a physical battle to redirect him. Thankfully he's not people aggressive or particularly dog aggressive. Phew! What a challenge it has been--and I won't be ever be taking on another like this again. Definitely ego deflating not inflating. When people admires his good looks, I just say thank you but in my head I'm thinking, "you have no idea what comes with it." That good looks also makes it very difficult to rehome him because of that faux first attraction people have. And they see my control of him in selective situations (without having any idea how careful I am being--or the backup commands/plans) and think that he is a push button dog. NOT--as if any dog is.
Jennifer Pearson I live in Alabama with a working line Terv. I got her to work, but would not have done it if I didn't already have a great behaviorist who has experience with the breed. She owns one as well. Please contact me if you want her info.
I have a European Doberman and love each one I’ve had. They’re definitely a lot of work and I feel they’re worth the work that they require. Unfortunately, I do know of some that have been put down because the owners couldn’t handle them and they became dangerous. That breaks my heart. To think that someone didn’t do their homework on what’s required of a particular breed and that ignorance caused that dog to be put down really disturbs me. They have amazing potential. But that potential can only be brought out from people truly committed to putting in the necessary time for training and giving the dog what they require. People always complement my Doberman. But I tell them that It takes a lot of work. They don’t come to you like that. It’s not about just owning the dog for the times you want to be with it. It’s a lifestyle.
I have a dobie too and he is wonderful but you are right in putting in the time to socialize and train them
Excellent info Robert. Hey, I'm in over my head w a GSD. I cannot imagine a Malinois. Between the pandemic and my own lack of knowledge, I need some serious help to get this gal on track and she's almost 4! Any help to save my baby would be awesome!
Thank You more trainers and breeders should be saying this!!!!
I couldn’t agree with you more, Robert. These dogs are not for everyone. My first experience with Malinois was during time in Army Special Operations. From then on, I’ve wanted one as a pet and for IPO. However, it wasn’t until nearly 10 years later that I finally adopted a Malinois. I wanted to be at the proper point in my life to adequately care for and train the dog. We vetted several breeders and toured a few facilities. We finally decided to go with a breeder that was able to place us with a dog from a world champion bloodline that met our exact purpose. We also chose this breeder as he is a world class trainer and within driving distance. We sat on a waiting list nearly a year for this exact pup and are thrilled have him. One thing that you forgot to mention was the cost of these dogs once you own them. We feed raw and it’s expensive. The working dog gear for the field (e.g., kennel, harness, sleeves, etc.) are an investment. These dogs work and unfortunately that can result in injury and vet visits. And finally training - a good coach to train the handler cost a lot of money and for good reason.... Keep up the great content!
I have to say he’s correct. I got one when I was working, and although extremely intelligent they need dedication and patience and I was heartbroken that I had to give it away. Now I’m retired, and it took me 4-5 months of constant training, 7 days a week and she’s my baby, I love her, and she never leaves my side. She’s my best friend.
Wise and truthful advice. Listen in people, THIS IS TRUE... GENETICS HAVE THIS EFFECT !
best podcast about mals ever! ill be sharing this to all that ask me if they should get a mal
My Malinois is a rescue. I was told he was a German Shepherd mix, but it quickly became apparent he was not. DNA test confirmed he is 90% Malinois and 10% GSD. I guess that is technically a GSD mix haha! Anyway, Im committed and your videos have been VERY helpful! He's been a lot of work, but we are doing great!
love hearing that!
@@RobertCabralDogs :)
I also adopted a GS "purebred" working line. Turns out she is short legged and heavy boned like GS, But face and tail are malinous-like.
I suspected she's mixed due to her physical details and her other dog aggressive reactivity and boundless energy which led me to test her DNA. Waiting for results. She is bi-color patterned. Sweet with very high prey drive and constantly scanning on walks and in car. We are jogging/walking 2 hours daily. Am retired and with her 24/7. I have learned sooooo much from you, Mr. Cabral! Thank you. I love this dog and am committed to making this her last stop in life. She's 4 and a good girl who loves her work-- Squirrel Patrol of the property! Lol.
Listening and following commands and always wants to please. ❤
@@57colliegirl I got another "Shepherd mix" from the pound in September and he's actually 100% Malinois lol.
My son has Belgian malinois, he needs her for security for his job... I look after her sometimes, she is 100 mile an hour, never stops, always looking, scanning, alert, vigilant, beautiful lady but totally NOT a pet. My son got her from a registered breeder, he had to be interviewed for 2 hours to see he was of sound mind, competent and commitment and his location and home was suitable. Please don't get one if you can't commit.
I have Labrador now that's a family dog!
Responsible. I love the breed, but I know I can’t handle one. You reinforced that for me. My grandmother used to have GSD. I wanted a guard dog, but I understand what you are saying. Thanks for being straight up and loving the dogs. I am not good with dogs but I love them. I do watch the videos of Malinois. It’s now enough for me.
My Belgian Malinois is awesome. He was Very easy to train and is mellow and chill when it isn't play time.
90% of people who want a dog don't need one period.
True that
I totally agree! I have done many rescues and the truth is PEOPLE SUCK!
You don't NEED 90% of all the things and junk in your life... Doesn't mean you shouldnt have it... Just saying
The problem is, people don't understand the commitment needed when adding a dog to the family.
Amador Bullies AND people who love care for dogs like myself, check out my big dobe on my channel , are the ones that need and love and are saviors of the DOG
Mine took work!! But his a champ with our family!
Yes it cost 2500.00 for training!!
So yes you must invest YOUR life for his respect!
I concur!!
People do not get one unless you like hiking ... running !
And yes about growing up?
Our dogs mom bit off an ear off of her one pup!!
That’s them!
You spend money and work EVERYDAY!! Great dog!!!
I’m retired so I’m with him all day!
2-3 1/2 hour walks then my son gets home and takes him out for 1-2 hours of full out running and playing with his friends dog in a 1/2 acre fenced in area !!
That is what they need.
Thanks for rescuing them!
And we get him around as many dogs as possible
Very important words - "Reputable breeders". So vital to understand the difference between "dealers" and true breeders.
Very True advice, I got one without any knowledge and it’s a sharp learning curve. I’m studying, excercising & training every day. She is a superb dog but she is life changing and constant demand for training . I refuse to fail her.
This was well informed ... so true! Not spefically military/police but working dog ... oh yes! Nice vid!
Didn't see it throught till the end ... Your vid should be Malinois 101 ... fantastic dogs but Work .. work .. work.
Only issue, "don't get a Malinois' ... just make sure you tick all the boxes ... they can be appartment companions ... but give 'm work and time! My Mal was a lapdog (for one hour a day).
Best (probably) unbiased vid I've seen ... there's really good stuff in here!
Said to myself when they released the picture, "great, I wonder how many uneducated people will want a malinois now". You're doing a great service to put people off the idea
Good advice, from an expert. I HAVE OWNED TRAINED AND BRED, ROTTWEILERS, BUT AFTER 20YEARS, DOING THE RESEARCH, DECIDED THE MALINOIS WOULD BE TOO MUCH FOR ME.
I think we all really need you Robert. I love your honestly about the Malinois. I LOVE MINE TO BITS but really, he was a pain in the ass. So I can relate to every-thing you say. These are great breeds, but definitely not for everyone. Just a little 5% of the people in the world I guess 🤷🏼♀️
Lucky though to be one of those few people, because I had the time, patience and COFIDENCE to work with this dog. Another great video, will deffo share!
Thank you very much for this video Rob. I rescued a working line Mal and its been a ton of work. I've. been working with a protection sport trainer and if I didn't have the financial resources and free time she would have been way too much. I had a working line GSD prior to her (which is why I was contacted to rescue my Mal) and they are very different animals. I've seen folks with out of control Mals and GSDs even before the Wick/Bin Laden/Al-Bagdadi [sp?] phenomenon and have been very worried that this breed would get "popular" and attract unwanted legislative attention as well as do damage to the breed writ large. Thank you again, and keep up the great work on your channel.
One more thing,... maybe if people are thinking about getting a Mal or GSD they should volunteer at a rescue for the breed. Might give them an idea of what they are thinking of getting into prior to making a 10-15 year commitment....
Nice feedback. Just for your information. The city Maline is the French name of the city Mechelen. It is in the Flemisch part of Belgium. We call the dog in Flemisch "Mechelse herder" or "Mechelaar".
Guess the name "Mechelaar" was harder to pronounce in English than "Malinois".
"Belgian Malinois' sounds for us very weird. It is like saying an "American New Yorker".
What you are saying in the video is spot on.
I have an adult 3 years old Malinois. He is a great dog, but I do agree that they are pretty active. I had pitbulls, and Malis are way above pitbulls in activity level. I live in Brazil, and security it is a great issue around here, and my Mali help to keep my familiy safe, but the manegement of a trained Malinois among children must be pretty straight foward. There is no place to "maybes". Congrats for the video!!
HI Robert, very grateful for your videos. We seem to have gotten into something (that may be a malinois) and your videos are helping, or at least comforting. There was a dog that was going to be put down with parvo at the clayton county pound, that my partner decided to rescue, a really skinny weak little german shepard, she was very sick and couldn't hold anything down, we picked her up and she was really sweet, she actually crawled from the back of the station wagon to rest her head on my arm when were driving away from the pound. Needless to say that made me really committed to her. We gave her iv hydration and antibiotics at home for a few days and then she got an ungodly amount of energy and she has been great since...but I think she may not be a german shepard. She is now 50 pounds, skinny frame, short strong fur, black face and doesn't behave like the shepherds I've had - sort of like a shepard with ADD, by which I mean she can hyper-focus but is often overwhelmed by her energy. She loves to bite and initially I was doing a lot of wrestling and bite play with her, but she found a stray neighbor's dog on our property and herded it off with butt nips (fortunately the owner didn't see) so now no tooth to human skin contact for her. We've had family GSDs and mixes, but I've been looking around online and I'm wondering if she's a malinois or part malinois. A friend said she may be a mix or working line (I didn't know what working line meant until this all came up.) We're training her, but we only have an hour or so a day to really focus one on one with her...is she going to be too much for us? It would kill me to give her up now but she may be useful to somebody with work. The vet thinks she's 2 from her tarter, she didn't have any training when we got her.
I cut out tugger games soon as I got my rescue gsd home. And anything that begins to be a wrestle...please don't tell anybody..I suspect a bit of Mali...she needs good 6 hrs playtraining a day out on a large acreage. She needs this like oxygen. Any less and she gets frustrated. I mix mental in it..but it's the p.e.component that keeps her grounded.
Love this video. If you think u want one because u saw it on tv and it’s “badass”...then u do not want one.
I've had mine for a yr and a half. Got her at 9 months old. Name is Rose. She is beautiful, full of energy, social and smart. The key to keeping her corralled, I have found is lots of outside activity. We take long walks, she has a huge backyard, toys. You must work with them. They pick up what you want easily. I love my girl and couldn't imagine not having her. So it worked out for me. If you can't spend time with one as I have described, it might not be a dog you should own.
Great straight to the point video!
We were thinking of you all great to see your all safe!!
@Mark Nalliah
🤝
Hi Robert
Great video truly enjoyed watching it thank you
Thank you for such an important message. It seems EVERY breed that becomes popular, whether via Westminster, media or movies, is destined for ruin. I recently adopted an adult GSD from the military, I'm a LVT for 20+yrs in ECC, I only work 2 days/wk w/dog training experience ( I've adopted several adult GSD's over the past 30 years). I have close friends that are k9 trainers & handlers in law enforcement & the military and I STILL deliberately evaluated my ability to handle a Mal when the military offered a choice of GSD or Mal. I've always wanted a Mal but working 4 days/wk would NEVER do w/a Mal. So again THANK YOU for your brutal honesty.❤️
New to the breed. Have a mouthy 9 weeker who is waiting to enrol in assistance training. His eagerness to learn has staggered me. I am wiped out every day. I go for a minimum of a 5k every day so he’ll have the walks, but I think he is more exhausted when I work his brain
I have 6 Maligators. I had my last litter a year and two months ago. I have raised them for about 15 years. I trained all my dogs before I sold them and school the new owners on good and the bad. Most of my dogs ended up went to police officers who wanted one for their own. I have had to take back one over the years. Everyone who got one of my dogs had no problems. I started the training when they could walk. It takes work but the rewards are very rewarding. My pack minds me, I say sit and where ever the dog in the house sits where they are. I do have from time to time they do get into the trash. They are all trained in police training. I have one Vet who will treat and maintain my dogs health. He knows I can handle my dogs. My dogs love the family and we love them back. I would not trade one for all the money in the world. I do agree with you that a Mal owner has to have a ton of patients and knowledge of an aggressive breed. I am not cool but I did serve in special forces and have a great knowledge of the breed. My dogs do scrap from time to time but one hana (which is a Korean word) I use hana to mean no or stop. I didn't want to use German words because everyone uses German and my wife is Korean. My female came from the Sarak line and the father came from the Donner line. My dogs are the best. I did sign a contract for every dog I bought. I had to show the sellers my military record. I do think you are a bit hard on the public, some people can handle one dog if the new owners listen and call me when they have problems. Not all people are stupid. I do handle them almost like a drill instructor. To burn off their energy when I take them in my huge back yard and have an 8 ball and have trained them to chase the dog who has the ball and they will chase until they until they are exhausted. This makes them behave in the house. I fixed momma dog and daddy dog and kept 4 of the girl dogs from my last litter. They are a joy, no two are the same personality wise. They are pranksters. and they protect my home or me or my wife when we take one for a ride to the store with us. While with us in public the mind and will only get aggressive when the magic word is used. Some people should not have them but I do feel the same amount of people could have ONE if they listen to what the dogs are trained to do. I always follow up at 6 months after someone got one of my dogs. So you are right but I think you are thinking all people are stupid and irresponsible. Good loving owners who have patients and will listen will do just fine with one.
I agree with you. I have a Belgian and she is great. Most sensible people can handle a Belgian imo. Also Belgians will learn to relax more if you don't exercise or train them as much.
I am not saying you shouldnt try and give your dog exercise everyday but even if you only go for a short walk with your dog every couple days or whatnot. You do the best you can and the dog will learn to live with you. Maybe not all Belgians will learn to calm down as much as ours has but I hear other people say the same thing with their Belgian.
As long as your pup is healthy happy and well taken care and you are a decent dog owner from my personal experience their is a fair amount of people capable of owning a Belgian. It's just wise to know you might need 30 min to get their exercise in everyday especially when you first get them.
This is just my opinion. Amd I am am thankful and lucky to have a beautiful Belgian x trained protection dog that we got off Craigslist. She literally knows how to bite but we got her super cheap and the owner did t tell us she was a protection dog! Super sketchy but I thank the LORD for her! She is great!
Excellent advice! Thank you, Robert.
This can be applied to all working dogs. I've spent many years surrounded with dobermans (at the time i didnt have the time or space for one), read a lot, watched a lot of training videos. I dare to say i knew what i was in for BUT i still ran in to problems i had no idea how to solve. For the first year of his life we spent close to 6 hrs a day in total outside working on various things, after all of that he takes a 30 min nap and can do it all over again. Teaching him how to behave indoors took a while too and i dont mean potty training. Educate yourself people or you will lose a lot of nerves, money and time.
Well said Robert 👍
Great video and the message is on point as always. I have a male gsd who has crazy prey drive and is very dominant which turns to aggression if the other dog doesn’t immediately submit. No joke it doesn’t matter if it’s a 5lb poodle or a 150lb mastiff he puffs up and goes for the mount, if he gets it he’s satisfied if he has to fight for it he will without hesitation and with a ferocity like I’ve never seen. You wouldn’t know this about him if you met him today(4.5 years old) because I love him and I’m committed to him as much as I am anything else in my life. I get up early and I stay up late to work, train and exercise him. I paid a lot of money for training and the proper tools for training. I researched for weeks before I decided on a trainer. He has over 20 years experience training military and police k9s. He taught me how to teach Niko how to behave. Prior to that I got bit so hard by a 12 week old puppy that I had blood running down my arm on a regular basis. I made many mistakes along the way but I refused to give up and I have an amazing dog and I have enjoyed every minute of it. I have a stronger bond with him than with any other dog I’ve ever had, I’m 38 and have had many dogs. My point is listen to this man. These types of dogs are not easy and can be very dangerous and destructive if you don’t do the extensive work to make it a successful partnership.
Here in Belgium many people have one of the belgian shepherd types as a family / guard dog. The standard says that they may not be agresive dogs .The working line/competition dogs are often agressive like pistol with a senssitive trigger. The Tervuren , Groenendal and family friendly line Malinois are fine with a family at conditions that people attend puppie classes as soon the dog is in order of vaxinations and take advise from a trainer as soon as a problem arrise ,live with the family and is involve in it's activity every day and is given about two hours of running and brist walking every day until their energy level is down at about 7years old then at least one and a half hours each day.
Great advice Robert. Unfortunately, the breed is already becoming well known. I know 2 breeders who sale their puppies to just about anyone and I hate it for the breed. Hopefully the people who get these dogs as pets get what I call "a watered down version". I would say most people aren't ready for an even average drive Malinois. Keep up the great work, I enjoy your videos and your expertise is very useful.
Ditto in my country ! This breed was recently introduced and initially it was not made available to the civilians. But as soon as it was made available to the public , I started seeing a lot of backyard breeders on youtube selling puppies raised in deplorable conditions making me question the very fate of these dogs and also the mindset of those who would buy them .
Thank you for this video. Any dog that is sensationalized like the Dalmatian, the Collie, and any dog everybody wants. However, people criticize the videos of the Malinois working and think these things that these dogs do are cruel. No. They are bred to do these things. If you own one you have a full time job.
Utik is my second Malinois. All dogs are different. Balto my first one was a more relaxed dog and eager to learn.
Utik my actual Mao. Is a lot more stubborn dog. Both came from European breeder. A Malinois is a dog that you always have to train all time when you walk her is training time, no just casual walking. food time is training also. Doggie park is training time. And of course and is my opinion you have to give your Mao a purpose Obedience. Protection, tracking, ring sports. You have to keep your Malinois mind busy not just physical activity... like I always say a Malinois is a lifestyle.
Robert Cabral. Thank you for this video. As always you’re amazing.
My grandmother had 3 terveurens in succession, and they each made wonderful family companions. They first I believe was a rehoming. They lived on a dairy farm, but they were never used for herding or so. They sure were intense, but since there were always people around, there was always stimulation around. They all got along great with the cats on the farm, and easily trained.
Maybe they are bred a bit different in Europe (Sweden) than in the US.
I do love the Belgian shepherds, especially the Tervueren. Sadly my life situation does not permit me to have one. I will work towards having such an environment at a later stage in life.
Dairy farmers are disciplined people which may help explain the results of the dog.
As the son of cop, I grew up around retired K9's. A few Malinois also. Theyre loyal, protective, highly intelligent and athletic.
He is absolutely correct about them but theyre still my favorite breed. Even tho no cat survived walking through our yard. Ever.
What a great video. I shared it to raise awareness, maybe it will discourage someone from this mistake that would be so unfair to the dog.