Potential New Malinois Owner, I need lots of advice! - Page 1

Recently, I got an offer to co-own a Belgian Malinois. I have tons of free time, have visited the breeder and talked extensively about owning a Mal. The contract is in the works, and she's really quite open to finding middle ground that works for both of us. But, as great as she is, she seems biased in her opinion that Mals are the greatest dog on earth. (I'm used to German Shepherds, and she said these dogs make Shepherds look like "feathery bunnies with wings"- I admit, I laughed). As per agreement, I'll be working the dog in as many venues as possible (I have lots and lots of time), but before I say yes, I want to make a fully informed choice. What are Mals like? I know they're highly active, I have an Australian Shepherd I run 8 miles a day with (4 there, 4 back) so I have no issues with lots of physical exercise, but everything I read/hear has a Mals in a ballpark all their own. Can you guys give me the "honest truth" on the breed?

Thanks tons in advance (:

You are asking for generalisations. There are diferent bloodlines, characters, purposes etc, etc...

The breeder managed to some up all german shepherd's dogs and all Mallinois into one convenient catchphraise. Probably not clever. I chose to own Mals and Dutch Shepherds but there are more shit Mals out there than good ones. I would chose a good German dog over a shit Mal. But even that opinion is simplified.

Go look at the dogs parents. Question the breeders reasons for breeding dogs she can't/ doesn't want to accomidate.

I am not intentionally being dificult but a Mal in particular should not be taken in on a whim. If you want one the commitment is more than physically exercising the animal. What is the adantage to you of co-ownerhip?

Take care,
R.

I would never co-own a dog. Just too much potential for things to go wrong, and not worth it in the long run, IMHO. If I like it that much, I'll buy it.

The previous reply is correct, no one can tell you what it would be like to live with your chosen pup/dog. Look at the pedigree, look at the parents, find out how they were to raise and train. A lot of it depends on your situation and experience too, a pup can be very easy to manage for one person and a nightmare in someone else's hands.

What traits to you really like and dislike in a dog? How likely are you to get what you want out of this breeding?

I "happened" into a Mal and am a very experienced dog owner of many breeds and also worked veterinary for 20 years so have a lot of breed experience.  I think the breeding of a particular dog has a lot to say about his temperament and his behavior in the beginning.  Mine is conformation and obedience bred, therefore, does not have the high excited drive of the sport dogs.  He is easy to work with, will just go lie down someplace when he comes in and is perfectly happy to go in the truck.  He is very smart and learns quickly.  Generally speaking, they have less health issues that GSDs and have a little longer working life - thus some of the reasons many of the law enforcement offices switching breeds.

Co-ownership can become an issue should something happen to the dog while in your care - as I learned in a horse co-ownership.  Make sure if you do this, their are stipulations in the paperwork spelling out these type issues before you sign.

They are an active breed, but not unmanageable and in my opinion a joy to own.

I own Malinois and I will tell you they are great but really active. But never co-own any, heard lots of stories but their are alway 2 sides to the story.  But if you trust the people go for it. Good Luck