Nigel Reed, a canine behaviorist with 25 years of experience, is cautioning potential dog owners against choosing breeds based solely on their appearance. Reed, often referred to as 'The Dog Guardian,' stated in an interview with the Daily Mail that breeds such as the Belgian Malinois and the Dutch Shepherd, while capable of extraordinary work in the right hands, can be a "nightmare" for inexperienced owners.
Reed, who has worked with numerous clients worldwide, including magician Derren Brown, explained that these highly intelligent and athletic breeds are often misunderstood. "A lot of people see a Malinois or Dutch Shepherd online, watch one carrying out impressive obedience or protection work and think, 'I want one of those,'" he said. "What they do not always see is everything that goes on behind the scenes."
These breeds require significant commitment, including extensive exercise, structure, mental stimulation, and clear guidance, Reed emphasized. "They are best suited to an owner who understands dogs at a high level and can give them structure, mental stimulation, clear guidance and an appropriate outlet for their natural drive," he noted.
Reed shared that his own Dutch Shepherd is highly responsive to his commands but requires careful supervision when with others. "She is incredibly quick to spot where somebody is less consistent than I am," he stated. "If a dog sitter becomes lax about a boundary or lets something slide, she will notice it almost immediately and, more often than not, push it."
He advised prospective owners to consider the long-term commitment, which can span 10 to 15 years, and to assess if they can provide the necessary lifestyle for their chosen breed. "That matters far more than whether you like the look of them," Reed asserted.
Beyond breed selection, Reed addressed the common issue of incessant barking, describing it as a symptom of underlying problems such as fear, anxiety, or frustration. Instead of simply trying to stop the barking, he recommends owners investigate the cause. "The important question is not simply: 'How do I stop the barking?'" he said. "Instead, try to evaluate whether he or she is scared, anxious or frustrated while asking yourself, 'Why does my dog feel the need to bark?'"
Reed suggested that barking can stem from a lack of confidence in the owner's ability to handle situations, the environment, or understanding what is expected of the dog. He advocates for reassuring the dog and demonstrating that the owner is aware of and can manage the situation. "Reassure them with something simple such as, 'It’s OK' or 'I’ve got it,'" he advised. "If they still look worried, calmly go and investigate. Keep your demeanour relaxed."
The goal, Reed explained, is for the dog to learn that alerting the owner is sufficient, as the owner will then take responsibility for managing the situation. This approach, he contrasted, is more effective than simply trying to suppress the barking.
Reed's insights are being shared as he appears on the new UKTV show "Wagging Rights," where he coaches celebrities training their dogs. The show features celebrities such as Vicky Pattinson, Rhod Gilbert, and Sara Pascoe.
