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19/02/2025
Here's an interesting article. A reason to buy a dog bred for your purpose rather than one you like the look of.
On Working Dogs and Those Who Shouldn’t Be
Imagine this:
Liam has always wanted a dog. Now, at 27, he finally feels ready—he has a stable job, a nice apartment, and a good routine. Growing up, his family had a mixed-breed dog named Buddy, a sweet and easygoing companion who never caused any trouble. Now, Liam is looking for a dog of his own, one that will be his adventure partner and best friend.
For a long time, he’s admired working-line German Shepherds. Their athletic build, intelligence, and loyalty make them seem like the perfect choice. He pictures long hikes together, training in the park, and having a devoted protector by his side. Then, one day, he sees a litter of German Shepherd puppies listed online—just a few towns over. It feels like fate.
Excited, Liam contacts the breeder and learns that a few puppies are still available. He immediately picks a male—the biggest in the litter. In his mind, a large, powerful dog will not only look impressive but also make him feel safer on evening runs.
The next day, he picks up his new puppy, Rex. The breeder warns him that the pup comes from strong working lines and will need a lot of training and engagement. But Liam isn’t worried—he grew up with Buddy and figures he already knows how to raise a dog.
At home, Rex quickly settles in. He’s playful, energetic, and always at Liam’s side. Liam posts pictures of his handsome new pup on social media, proud of his choice. He imagines how well-behaved and loyal Rex will be in the future.
8 Months Later
Reality hits hard. Rex has grown into a powerful, high-energy adolescent. But instead of being the perfect adventure partner, he’s a handful. He’s constantly jumping up on people, lunging at other dogs, and barking at anything unfamiliar. He destroys furniture when left alone, refuses to settle down in the house, and has even started nipping Liam when frustrated.
Liam tried a basic obedience class, but after a few sessions, he got bored. He expected Rex to naturally listen, just like Buddy did. Online, he read that positive reinforcement is the best approach, so he rewards good behavior—but when Rex misbehaves, he isn’t sure how to correct him. To avoid conflict, Liam simply tries to tire him out with long walks. But no matter how much exercise Rex gets, he never seems satisfied.
Then, one evening, disaster strikes. While out on a walk, Rex spots another dog across the street and lunges. Unprepared for the sheer strength of his dog, Liam struggles to hold on. Instinctively, he grabs Rex’s collar to pull him back—only for Rex to whip around and bite him, hard.
Bleeding and in shock, Liam rushes to the hospital. As he sits in the waiting room, he finally admits to himself:
This isn’t working. Rex has to go.
But is Rex really the problem?
🤔 What Went Wrong?
Liam’s story is a common one. Many people are drawn to working breeds like Malinois, working-line German Shepherds, or Dutch Shepherds because of their looks or reputation. They picture a loyal, obedient companion, without fully understanding what these dogs were bred for.
Most working dogs are not content with a few walks or occasional playtime. They thrive on structured training, problem-solving tasks, and purpose-driven activities. Without these, their natural instincts turn into frustration—leading to destructive behavior, hyperactivity, or even aggression.
These dogs were developed for intense jobs: protection, police work, herding, and search-and-rescue. They are wired to think independently and persist in their tasks. If their owners don’t provide clear leadership and outlets for their energy, they will find their own "job"—which often turns into guarding the house excessively, chasing moving objects, or reacting aggressively to strangers.
Owning a working dog requires dedication. It’s not just about exercise but also about structured training, impulse control, and mental stimulation. Simply being "active" isn’t enough—these dogs need guidance, purpose, and leadership.
🐕🦺The Right Dog for the Right Owner
If you’re considering a working breed, ask yourself:
- Do I truly understand this breed’s needs and instincts?
- Am I willing to invest time in training and structured engagement every day?
- Do I have the experience or willingness to learn how to handle a strong, independent dog?
- Am I prepared to seek professional help if challenges arise?**
When matched with the right owner, these dogs can be incredible partners. But when placed in the wrong hands, they often end up stressed, frustrated, and misunderstood.
Choosing a dog shouldn’t just be about looks or reputation. It should be about finding a breed that fits your lifestyle, experience, and commitment level. When that happens, both dog and owner can truly thrive.
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