Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
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Story
~DOB: 2/1/2022
Weight: 57lbs
Energy Level: Moderate
Overall Drive: Moderate
Location: Mount Vernon, WA
If you’re looking for a dog with personality, brains, and “old soul” energy wrapped into one compact Belgian Malinois package… Ira might just be your guy. With his endearing frosted muzzle, expressive face, and smaller frame, he’s perfect for someone wanting an active, capable dog without the oversized package.
At first glance, Ira gives off calm, thoughtful vibes, but this little guy has plenty of enthusiasm and heart for work. He absolutely loves being involved with his person and thrives when given jobs, activity, and engagement.
What Ira Loves
• Nose work and scent games
• Hiking and outdoor adventures
• Training and learning
• Relationship-based work with his handler
• Staying mentally engaged and included
He will excel in the following areas:
• Hiking companion
• Nose work or scent sport dog
• Adventure buddy
• Active companion dog
Ira is incredibly smart and picks up concepts quickly. He already knows recall, place, “pretty”, has wonderful toy engagement, and excellent handler focus. Like many intelligent working dogs, Ira can occasionally catch an odor trail or decide his brain wants to wander independently for a moment. Because of this, he does best with a handler who can confidently and calmly redirect him back into the conversation when his curiosity takes over.
Ira heavily bonds with his person and genuinely wants to be part of a partnership. He’s affectionate, enthusiastic, and very relationship oriented. While he enjoys activity and engagement, he also has an “off switch” and settles nicely once expectations are clear and reinforcement is consistent. He has that “old soul” personality where he feels thoughtful, observant, funny, and deeply connected all at once.
Ira is generally neutral with most dogs and can coexist well, but he tends to take introductions in the “fast lane.” He comes in enthusiastically and confidently, which can be too much for the wrong dog or a sensitive personality. As with any dogs, introductions should be structured and thoughtful, especially with unfamiliar dogs. His curiosity, prey drive, and intensity make him better suited for a home without cats or other small pets.
His ideal home will be active but structured with someone who appreciates intelligent, engaged dogs with personality. So if you’re looking for an adventure partner, or maybe interested in training or nose work, Ira is all in. He’s patiently waiting for the perfect person wanting a sidekick that is smart, funny, affectionate, capable, and full of personality without being overwhelming.
