Dogs
You Watched DOG, The Movie. Now You Want a Belgian Malinois
Is this the right breed for you and your family?
I care deeply about animal welfare. It is necessary to shed light on some issues animals face when featured in movies. Films like Beethoven, Homeward Bound, Milo & Otis, and Max are cute, funny, and heartwarming. There have been many others since then.
There is one thing I don’t like about movies or shows with animals; people get excited and adopt breeds they are not ready for.
If the animals find permanent homes, that is fine. It’s a problem if they are taken to the shelter when the novelty wears off.
These are the most common reasons why some dogs are given up:
The dog is too big
The dog is being destructive
The dog is aggressive
The dog is too hyper.
Dogs will not learn basic commands if you don’t teach them. They need your guidance.
These are some of the breeds that have been featured in movies. These dogs are great, but they are not for inexperienced individuals.
Mastiff
Pit Bull
German Shepherd
Doberman
Akita
Siberian Husky
Alaskan Malamute
Belgian Malinois
DOG, THE MOVIE
Let’s talk about the most recent animal movie out in theaters, DOG. It sheds light on the mental health issues of people in the military. The stars of the film are Channing Tatum and Lulu. Lulu is a beautiful, intelligent Belgian Malinois. Their story will show you the bond animals and humans share. I recommend watching it. If you fall in love with one of these dogs and you have the sudden need to adopt one, please keep reading!
Belgian Malinois date back to the 1800s and are native to Belgium. They were used as herding dogs. They arrived in the United States in the early 1900s. They were enlisted to serve as working dogs in the military during WWI.
Belgian Malinois are loyal, highly trainable, strong, intelligent, energetic, reactive, and athletic. These traits make them ideal for search and rescue dogs, narcotic detection dogs, law enforcement, or military working dogs. They are not crazy, but they make other working dogs look easy.
AN ACTIVE DOG IS A HAPPY DOG
Belgians require plenty of physical and mental stimulation. A quick stroll around the block won’t be sufficient. These dogs need a job and vigorous exercise. If you go hiking, to agility competitions, running, or other kinds of dog sports, then you will have a happy pup.
They are not dogs for couch potatoes. If they are bored, they will become destructive. Chances are that your favorite couch will not survive the powerful jaws they possess. The valuable heirloom that has been in your family for three decades will become a chew toy.
They have a high prey drive and may want to chase small animals and even children. They can become aggressive if they are left alone all the time. They need to be trained and socialized to ensure they are well-mannered. Use positive reinforcement. You want them to trust you, not fear you.
I have worked closely with these amazing dogs. I encourage you NOT to get one if you are not a responsible pet parent. It is not fair to them to be brought into a household that will not cater to their needs. You are doomed to fail them. They are great dogs, but not everyone will be the right pet parent for them.
Before adopting an animal, there are a few things to consider; ask yourselves the following questions:
Am I ready to adopt an animal?
Does this animal fit into my lifestyle?
Do I know enough about the type of animal I want to have?
Am I going to take the animal to the vet for annual checkups?
Am I financially stable in case of a medical emergency?
Is every member of the family ready to have an animal at home?
In conclusion, if you are interested in adopting a Belgian Malinois, or a particular breed, apply to be a foster parent. Be honest and inform them you have no experience. If they think you are a good candidate, the shelter or Rescue may approve your request.
Talk to reputable dog trainers for advice. Read books about the specific breed you want to adopt. Do thorough research. You will determine then if they are a good fit for you and your family. If you are willing to take the time and effort to teach them, you will form a strong bond and a good pet/guardian relationship. Look out for their best interest. They deserve a happy life, a forever home, and a loving family.
*** Filmmakers, if you ever read this article, please educate people about the breed featured in your film. Play a mini- documentary before the movie. Animals are not things; they are living creatures that do not deserve to be abandoned.
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