Why do I own Malinois??????
I grew up with Collies, It was the only breed I lived with outside of a sheltie mix until I was 27 yrs old.
Then came my search
I have always loved the herding breeds, I was drawn to their focus and devotion of their owners. But living in Oregon and enjoying outdoor activities with my dogs, a shorter more all weather coat became a primary interest of mine. I was also interested in a dog with a higher activity level; with more drive to play, learn, and protect. I wanted a dog that was always ready to go with me and try anything that came our way. More than anything I wanted a dog that wanted to be with me.
Pictured on the left is me (Catherine), my mother, my last Rough Collie "Corey" CGC, "Tally" the super dog, and Tessa at about 9 months of age.
Then came
The Belgian Malinois was the natural choice. They are smart, loyal, and love to learn. They are ready to go every time I head out the door. They would rather sit in the car and wait all day then stay home! They just want to go with me, they don't care where!
I feel very lucky to have found Tessa as my first dog of this breed. She will always be the reason that I fell in love with Malinois. She is smart, loyal, active, sensitive, and loves to play fetch! Tessa is the fastest most athletic dog I have ever owned, watching her run can take my breath away. She is also very alert and aware of most everything that is going on around her. This is Tessa pictured at 7 weeks of age.
My dog...........
Tessa has been my companion through illness and joy. From my diagnosis of MS, to buying a house, and giving me 8 wonderful puppies in her first litter.
She has also made me proud by winning at shows.Tessa is pictured with her "goodies" that she won at the 1995 ABMC National Specialty in Maryland. She was the, Winners bitch and earned an Award of Merit! I was blown away with her spirt and spunk!
What a dog!
Tessa is not perfect, but she has captured part of my heart so strongly I can't think of my daily life with out her.
Tessa was not raised with children, but she has a special way with them. She traveled to work with me for almost 3 years and worked with incarcerated youth offenders as a therapy dog. I am a Special Education teacher and I work every day with these young men. I could see how much they enjoyed her visits and playing ball with her as they talked about their childhood dog. It is true,She is spoiled and likes to have things her way. She is a house dog to the bone, outside is for 3 things, 1. playing 2. going potty and 3. laying in the sun! But most of all she is my dog and I would not trade her for anything.