Hi everyone, I’m looking for some advice as I’m thinking about getting a dog; specifically either a Dutch Shepherd or a Belgian Malinois, but I’m not sure which one to go for or if they’d even suit my lifestyle.
I’ve heard that Dutchies tend to be a bit calmer and more sociable, so I’m leaning towards a Dutch Shepherd, but I’m still on the fence. (Obviously, I plan on going through a reputable breeder who does all the health testing and ensures the dogs have a good temperament for breeding.)
A bit about me: I mostly work from home and live in a rural flat with a decent-sized private garden. I’m a very active person and I’ve always struggled to find dogs that can actually keep up with me.
When I first discovered the Malinois and the Dutchie, I absolutely loved them, but the more I look into it, the more I’m starting to have second thoughts (destructive behaviour, reactivity, etc.). I’ve been researching training and how to prevent or manage these issues, but I’m still a bit worried.
I’d love an active companion to join me on my adventures, but at the end of the day, I’d quite like to keep my flat in one piece!
Translated from French
The forum content is sometimes translated from another language, and posts may concern countries with different animal laws. Do your research before making any decisions.
Since the forum is translated by AI, the translations may contain errors.
Hi there. I have a Dutch Shepherd that I bought as a puppy from a reputable breeder. Even as a pup, he destroyed the sofas, furniture legs, and the corners of the walls and doors. Our home has been absolutely wrecked. This dog is just too much; he constantly disrupts our family life and our evenings with friends. We have a massive garden (around half an acre), I’m a triathlete, and yet this 6-year-old dog still hasn't settled down. I’ve had five wonderful dogs before and I’ve never known such a disaster. Following all these issues, I contacted several other Dutch Shepherd owners to see if we were an isolated case, but no—the others are in the same boat. If you value your peace and quiet, take my advice and steer clear of this breed.
Hi there,
Maybe it’s just my take on things, but destructive behaviour and reactivity towards other dogs aren't a given... Puppies aren't born destructive or reactive!
If that’s something that worries you, it’s even more important to pick a top-notch breeder! Otherwise, well, it all comes down to training 😁 Your puppy won’t be destructive if you teach them properly. The same goes for reactivity: proper socialisation is key! And if they do happen to get attacked, you need to act immediately and ensure they only have positive encounters from then on.
To be honest, it’s a bit disheartening to always hear the same stereotypes about the same breeds... Malinois = destructive, Amstaff = reactive... and so on! Malinois are seen as destructive precisely because people get them without thinking it through or researching their needs! They are working dogs, and that says it all. In fact, if you look at the RSPCA or local rescue centres, they’re full of Malinois!
In terms of breeders, I’m no expert, but I’d suggest looking for a 'show line' rather than a 'working line'. Also, I’m not sure if you’ve heard of them, but there’s the Belgian Tervuren as well... gorgeous dogs, but they also require a massive personal commitment. There are both working and show lines for that breed too.
In any case, whatever you decide, I’d strongly recommend getting in touch with breeders and owners of the breed to get a more realistic idea!
@Docline, Dutch Shepherds aren't that rare. My cousin has one, but she doesn't take her out for walks anymore. She's been completely overwhelmed by the dog. At first, she was walking her every day, several times a day. But now the dog has to make do with the garden, with a toy in her mouth to stop her barking at cars or passers-by...
That’s the only Dutchie I know, though I’ve known some Malinois as well. I don’t think I know enough about the breeds because, to me, they’re more or less the same thing.
Mind you, the Malinois I’ve known were working dogs, either in a pair (with their handler) or solo (guarding a site). Those Malinois were perfectly well-balanced.
Whether it’s a Malinois or a Dutchie, they’re brilliant dogs!
Provided you can give them the right environment (physical, mental, exercise, work, etc., etc.), these kinds of dogs are the absolute best if they're well-balanced! But being able to provide that balance isn't something everyone can manage.
I’ve noticed there are actually quite a few breeders about. Either it’s just a coincidence, or the owners keep them all tucked away, lol; I’ve seen all sorts of Belgian Shepherds in Brittany, but not a single Dutchie (mind you, there are plenty of Dutch folk living around my way).
@Docline I’m a bit confused, do you really think the Dutch Shepherd is a rare breed? They’re exactly the type of dog I like, so I’d looked into breeders (before realising that shepherds weren't right for me) and they aren’t actually that hard to find... 🤷
Then again, with this kind of dog, just being active isn't enough... they're very trendy at the moment, but they have strong personalities. They need to use their brains and they love having structure, training, and being stuck to their owner's side – they are working breeds, after all. They need a confident owner who doesn't second-guess themselves. Have you had dogs before? Personally, I think they can be quite a handful as a first dog. What sort of temperament are you looking for? There are plenty of other active dogs out there! 😉
I can't help you personally, but I already know which questions the other forum members will ask to give you some advice, so to save time:
- Is this your first dog? I've read a lot that a Malinois is quite a challenge for a first-time owner.
- How long on average will the dog be left alone each day? (During the week? At the weekend?)
- How many walks (and for how long) do you plan on giving the dog daily in the long run? What type (on-lead, off-lead, walking, running, cycling, in town, at the park, in the countryside or the woods...)?
- How much time for mental stimulation or equivalent activities (agility, scent work...)? Because it seems to me that both breeds have very high needs when it comes to mental work ^^
With that info, I know several members here will be able to give you the best possible advice!
