High-drive dogs are some of the most impressive animals you will ever work with. They are intelligent, fast, highly engaged, and capable of learning at an exceptional level when given the right guidance. It is no surprise that breeds such as Belgian Malinois, German Shepherds, and working-line Retrievers have become increasingly popular in recent years.
At the same time, many dog owners – particularly inexperienced ones – quickly discover that these dogs come with significant challenges. Without structure and direction, the same traits that make high-drive dogs so capable can also make them difficult to live with. What often looks like disobedience or stubbornness is usually a dog that has more drive than their environment can support.
Understanding what a high-drive dog is, and how to work with that drive effectively, is the key to long-term success.
