Teaching a Malinois to Relax (Yes, They Need to Learn This)

Why Teaching Your Malinois to Relax Isn’t Optional

Belgian Malinois aren’t born knowing how to relax. If you’ve got one, you already know this. These high-drive dogs come pre-programmed for action, not meditation. But here’s the good news: relaxation is a skill they can learn. Our photo library shows 256 moments of Coco resting, more than any other activity. That didn’t happen by chance.

Understanding the Malinois Mind

Malinois are working dogs with an always-on mentality. Their default setting isn’t “chill on the couch,” it’s “what’s next?” This intensity makes them exceptional working dogs but challenging house pets. Without teaching them how to dial it down, you’ll end up with a dog who can’t settle.

The Science Behind Relaxation Training

Relaxation isn’t just about physical tiredness. It’s about teaching your dog that calm behavior gets rewarded. Modern behavioral science shows that dogs can learn to control their arousal levels when given the right tools and consistent training.

Starting Early: The Foundation

We began teaching Coco relaxation protocols when she was just 8 weeks old. Our photo library includes 30 early training moments, all indoors, showing the progression from a wiggly puppy who couldn’t sit still to one learning the basics of settling.

The Basic Protocol

1. Choose a quiet spot
2. Put down a mat or bed
3. Reward calm behavior instantly
4. Gradually increase duration
5. Add mild distractions over time

Don’t rush this process. Our early photos show mostly 2-3 minute sessions, building up slowly.

What Works (Based on Our Experience)

Consistency is Key

Looking at our data, 345 of our documented moments are indoors. That’s where most relaxation training happens. We’ve made indoor settling a daily priority, and it shows in the numbers.

The Power of Place

A designated relaxation spot helps enormously. For us, it’s Coco’s bed in the living room. Having a specific place for settling makes it easier for your Malinois to understand what’s expected.

Reward the Right Thing

Don’t wait for perfect relaxation before rewarding. In the beginning, reward:

• Head down
• Slow breathing
• Loose muscles
• Choosing to stay on the mat

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Trying Too Much Too Soon

Start with 30 seconds of calm. Not 5 minutes, not 10. Our early training photos show lots of quick sessions with a very young pup. Build duration gradually.

Skipping the Foundation

You can’t skip to advanced work. Those 256 resting moments in our library represent hundreds of tiny steps forward. Each success builds on the last.

Inconsistent Expectations

Pick your rules and stick to them. If the couch is off-limits, it’s always off-limits. If settle means “head down,” that’s what it means every time.

Beyond Basic Training

Adding Real-Life Challenges

Once your Malinois masters basic settling, start practicing with:

• People walking by
• Doorbell sounds
• Other dogs visible
• Food preparation
• Normal household noise

When to Get Help

If your Malinois shows signs of severe anxiety or can’t settle despite consistent training, talk to your vet. They might recommend a behavioral specialist or check for underlying health issues.

The Long View

Teaching a Malinois to relax isn’t a weekend project. Our library shows a clear progression from those early puppy days to now, with resting becoming more natural over time. The 256 documented resting photos tell a story of consistent training and clear expectations.

Remember that every dog learns at their own pace. What matters is progress, not perfection. Keep sessions short, rewards consistent, and expectations clear.