I would definitely recommend Morris and In Control Dog Training to anyone looking for a dog trainer. My wife and I have an 8 month old female Jack Russell named Lucy. Lucy was very friendly and never aggressive but she did have some behavior issues. The main problems we were having were lack of discipline and stubbornness. Lucy did not listen well; she would constantly dart off when we tried to catch her. In addition, her energy was becoming annoying to visitors. She would jump on them and playfully nip at their feet. This would not stop until we picked her up and put her outside. We were also very hesitant to let Lucy out of our sight or out of a fenced- in area for fear that she would get into some type of trouble.
If you are looking for Jack Russell puppy training in the Mandeville, LA area, contact us now.
Morris was able to change all this. Within the first week she was a completely transformed dog. She was still the lovable, energetic dog that she was before but only better because she was actually starting to listen to us and respect our commands. As the weeks went on she got better and better. Believe it or not, I don’t even need the leash to walk Lucy anymore. Letting her off the leash in the front yard was something we would have never considered before In Control Dog Training. Morris did a great job! He was very patient and informative with his training. And unlike some other training we had previously done, the things she learned with him were remembered when he left. Lucy is a much better dog and we are a much happier family thanks to In Control Dog Training!
Benson and Paris H
Mandeville, LA
The Belgian Malinois (pronounced Mal-in-wah) is a highly intelligent and energetic dog breed known for its versatility and exceptional work ethic.
Originally bred for herding, this breed has gained prominence in recent years for its roles in law enforcement, military, search and rescue, and as loyal family companions.
Below is a detailed overview of the Belgian Malinois, including its history and what makes it stand out compared to other breeds.
History of the Belgian Malinois
The Belgian Malinois is one of four distinct herding breeds that originated in Belgium, collectively known as the Belgian Shepherd Dogs. The four varieties—Malinois, Tervuren, Laekenois, and Groenendael—are named after the regions where they were developed. The Malinois is specifically named after the city of Malines in Belgium.
- Origins: The Belgian Malinois was developed in the late 19th century as a herding dog to assist farmers in managing sheep and cattle. Its intelligence, agility, and stamina made it an ideal working dog for the demanding tasks of herding and guarding livestock.
- Development as a Working Dog: Over time, the Malinois became popular beyond herding due to its versatility and trainability. It was used in police and military roles in Belgium and other countries as early as the early 1900s.
- Global Recognition: The breed gained recognition from the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1959 and is now widely used worldwide for various working roles, including bomb detection, narcotics detection, and search-and-rescue missions.
“I highly recommend In Control Dog Training!
The Positive Reinforcement methods used on our Belgian Malinois Roxy were right on point.
Couldn’t ask for anyone more knowledgeable about animal behavior, ability to identify the problem and techniques to solve them!! Great company, Morris is a great trainer!”This medicine can cause unusual results with certain medical tests.
Physical Characteristics
The Belgian Malinois is a medium-sized, well-proportioned dog with a lean and muscular build. Its physical attributes make it highly agile, fast, and enduring.
- Size: Males typically weigh 60–80 pounds and stand 24–26 inches tall, while females weigh 40–60 pounds and stand 22–24 inches tall.
- Coat: The Malinois has a short, weather-resistant double coat that is fawn to mahogany in color with black shading, particularly on the face (black mask) and ears.
- Appearance: They have erect ears, a proud carriage, and a sharp, alert expression that reflects their high intelligence and attentiveness.
Temperament and Personality
The Belgian Malinois is known for its high energy levels, intelligence, and loyalty. This breed is best suited for active and experienced dog owners who can provide the mental and physical stimulation it needs.
- Intelligent and Trainable: Malinois are incredibly intelligent and thrive on learning new tasks. They are often described as “thinking dogs” that excel in complex training and problem-solving exercises.
- Work-Oriented: This breed has a strong work ethic and requires a job or purpose to be truly happy. They excel in obedience, agility, protection training, and working roles.
- Protective and Loyal: The Malinois is naturally protective of its family and territory. While it is not inherently aggressive, proper socialization and training are essential to prevent overprotectiveness or fear-based behaviors.
- Energetic and Active: This breed is not suitable for a sedentary lifestyle. Malinois require daily exercise, such as running, hiking, or engaging in agility training, to channel their energy positively.
What Makes the Belgian Malinois Different?
The Belgian Malinois is often compared to other working breeds, particularly the German Shepherd, due to their similar roles in law enforcement and military. However, the Malinois has unique traits that set it apart:
- Energy and Agility:
- The Malinois is lighter and more agile than the German Shepherd, making it faster and better suited for tasks requiring speed and precision.
- Its high energy levels make it more demanding in terms of exercise and mental stimulation compared to other breeds.
- Drive and Focus:
- Malinois are known for their intense drive and focus, which makes them excel in high-pressure situations, such as military operations or search-and-rescue missions.
- This intense drive, however, requires consistent and firm training, as it can lead to behavioral issues if not properly managed.
- Health and Longevity:
- Belgian Malinois tend to have fewer health issues compared to German Shepherds, which are more prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. The Malinois typically enjoys a lifespan of 12–14 years.
- Versatility:
- While they excel in protection and working roles, Belgian Malinois also make excellent family pets for active households. However, they require early socialization to ensure they are well-rounded and adaptable in different environments.
- Emotional Sensitivity:
- Malinois are more emotionally sensitive than some other working breeds. They respond best to positive reinforcement training methods and can be adversely affected by harsh corrections or training techniques.
Is the Belgian Malinois Right for You? The Belgian Malinois is a wonderful breed for the right owner, but they are not a good fit for everyone. They thrive in environments where they have a job to do and plenty of opportunities for exercise and mental stimulation. Owners who lead active lifestyles, are experienced with dogs, and are committed to providing training and structure will find the Belgian Malinois to be a loyal and rewarding companion.
If you’re considering adding a Belgian Malinois to your family or need help training one, In Control Dog Training in the greater New Orleans, Louisiana area can provide professional guidance. Their training programs are tailored to meet the specific needs of high-energy, intelligent breeds like the Belgian Malinois, ensuring they become well-behaved and balanced companions. Whether it’s basic obedience, socialization, or advanced protection training, In Control Dog Training is equipped to help you and your Malinois succeed.
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Morris trained my German Shepard 10 yrs ago and now this 1 yr old Rhodesian ridgeback…
I called Morris after so many years b/c he solves problems simply and quickly… Archie is calm and I am in control…
I feel happy and honored we got to work together so Archie is a happier healthier dog
Welcome Alexis Cooper and her Siberian husky Diamond to our In Control Dog Training Family. We have done Two lessons with Diamond and she now waits at the door, place sits, down, off and walking. In Control Dog Training your puppy train experts.
Here is what Alexis had to say:
If you are looking for a dog trainer I highly recommend In Control Dog Training. Our 1 1/2 yr old Siberian husky was out of control and a wild little thing. Within two training sessions she was listening to commands and her behavior took a 360. Morris also gave us a lot of knowledge that has helped us understand her better. We are very grateful!
Thank you God for sending Morris from In Control Dog Training. After only one month of working with our Golden Retriever puppy Bentley and my husband and I, we are so very happy to say that we have a very well behaved 6 month old puppy.
With continuous work, he shall be the Best Golden Retriever alive.
Just a few weeks before, we did a lot of debating on whether or not we could handle a puppy. Now I know we made the right choice. Ben is here to stay! Thank you Morris.
-Renee Fontaine
Lacombe, LA
