Gaylord aka Gabe our problem child

I have a problem child who is currently in foster care in Armidale who I really would prefer not to put down unless I have too but I need specialist help with him.

His background is: Gaylord came with Ginger and her pups in May 2012. They are short haired Belgian Shepherd Malinois. All were very timid, scared and socialised as they had grown up at a place that keeps greyhounds for training and racing.

Ginger had been purchased in pup by someone who had a contract overseas for security work in Fiji at the airport which had not worked out, the contract cancelled so Ginger was not needed. We are still working on Ginger here and is currently not suitable for adoption. We are also working on his sister Gretel.

As Belgian Shepherd Rescue, we were contacted by the manager of the greyhound facility to see if we would take Ginger and her pups and rehabilitate them to which we agreed.

Gaylord aka Gabe we thought had progressed sufficiently to go to a home. He loves cuddles is fine with all people but like all Belgians needs consistent rules and boundaries. He will take advantage of anyone not firm with him. He is highly intelligent and would benefit from training especially agility, tracking, fly ball, Rally-O or some type of physical/mental activity. He is very athletic and really needs the mental stimulation. He will only take so much from a dominant male dog before retaliation so is better in a home on his own or with a strong bitch who wont try to dominant him but wont put up with nonsense either!!. He is a lovely natured dog with lots energy and will play happily for hours. He must have a very experienced dog handler as his owner carer who has the patience to work with him to earn his trust.

I asked his foster carer to also put his thoughts on paper and Gavins email is below. Gabe aka Gaylord is desexed, micro-chipped and immunised. If you know of anyone who has the patience the time and the right environment for this beautiful problem child please let me know.

Gabe is a 2 year old Belgian Malinois in need of an experienced foster parent. He is not suitable for a family situation, and will require the ongoing care, management and close supervision of an experienced handler or trainer.

To the right owner, Gabe will be a loving, affectionate and playful dog, he will chase the ball all day long and will require every ounce of physical and mental stimulation afforded to him. Gabe is currently placed with a temporary carer in Armidale NSW. Information relating to Gabes background will be provided upon request.

However, his new owner must be comfortable in dealing with fear based aggression, anti social tendencies, unpredictable and at times opportunistic negative behavior... you will likely be his last chance at achieving a continued existence. Gabe is a high maintenance dog who will test your knowledge and experience associated with challenging behaviors of this breed. His anxiety and nervous energy is often noticeable. You will be driven to give this boy the opportunity not granted during his critical first months of development. Rehabilitation and the development of an immature mind will be a core focus.

Please note: This dog is not suitable for professional deployment in any form of security or protection work. Equally, he is not suited to be around children or pets at this time.