COURTESY POST
Winston was found as a stray on the streets of Amsterdam NY. He was taken
into the Montgomery County SPCA on 11/24/2023. On December 27 th , I adopted him. He was
supposedly a German Shepherd mix, but multiple trainers including a K9 International trainer for law enforcement in Kingston NY told me he is predominantly Belgian Malinois with some Akita and maybe some lab.
HE IS A VERY GOOD DOG, AFFECTIONATE AND LOVES TO KISS AND LICK!
I found Winston to be extremely intelligent, he learned sit, stay, come, place (down), and drop (a ball) in 2 days! He loves to play ball, although I haven’t tried him off leash, just in fenced yards and a dog park.
While this breed is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are also very energetic. He was evaluated in a doggy day care (Harveys Pet in Johnstown NY) and because of his high energy, running and playfulness, he was asked not to come back. They confirmed that he showed no signs of aggression or separation anxiety, just lots of energy.
He loves his toys, but they need to be hard rubber (KONG) or very tough nylon. Anything remotely soft he will chew through. That includes tennis balls. I had started crate training him, he has been doing ok but not real happy about it. He will go in the crate if you say “place” and give him a treat. Also be sure to give him a Kong or other toy that cant be chewed up. I had a Ring camera in the room where his crate was, and if I saw him getting anxious and pawing at the door/barking, I would say “Winston Place” a couple times and he would settle right down. Again, extremely intelligent.
He walks very well using a pronged collar, and is very good about letting you know when he has to go outside, he will go to the door and pace by it.
In my opinion, Winston would do best with someone who has the time to be diligent with training. He needs LOTS of exercise and play time. I did not allow him to sleep on the bed, but he did like to lay on the floor next to me as opposed to another room or even at the foot of the bed on the floor.
Eating – VERY food motivated. I’d advise not having any food on the counter or table that he can get to. He didn’t chew or destroy anything, but does like to “mouth” your hands, arms, and feet. He will stop when asked, and bitter apple spray on your hands does help. I gave him 2 cups of dry Pedigree dog food morning and night.
Lastly, and this is important, when correcting him do it in a GENTLE VOICE. Almost a whisper. Yelling at him or even raising your voice does not work.
I have pictures and videos of training him, don’t hesitate to call or text me and I am happy to share. He will be a fantastic dog for the right family who has the time to train him and exercise him!
CONTACT:
Bruce Trombley 1bltrombley@gmail.com
585 455-3424
