FAQ’s

MADUK stands for Malinois and Dutch Herders UK Rescue Rehab Rehome. We are a UK-based charity dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming Malinois and Dutch Herders. Our focus is to give these high-energy working dogs a second chance through foster programs and eventual adoption.

Both Malinois and Dutch Herders are highly intelligent, energetic breeds that require experienced handlers and significant mental and physical stimulation. Many end up in rescues and are rehomed due to misunderstandings about their needs. Our charity is devoted to ensuring they find the right homes and educating and supporting people already with the breeds in order to avoid rehoming.

MADUK Rescue Rehab Rehome is based in the UK

Fostering is open to experienced dog owners or handlers who want to make a difference. You can sign up to become a foster by filling out our application form [here]

Fosters ideally need to have experience with working dog breeds, adequate time for training, and a secure environment for these active dogs. That isn’t to say someone without breed experience couldn’t foster for us, it would be a dependent on each dog or foster. Our team will discuss additional details during the application process.

We provide fosters with essential resources, including training guidance, vet care, and ongoing support. You’ll have access to our network of experienced volunteers and trainers.

In time as our funding grows, we aim to provide cover for most essential expenses, including, vet care, and training resources. Fosters simply need to provide a loving and structured environment.

As a small team, we take each adoption step carefully to ensure a good match for both you and the dog. You can start by browsing our available dogs and filling out an adoption form. Once we receive your application, we’ll review it and reach out to arrange a home check and a consultation to get to know you better.

Once you’ve submitted an application, our team will arrange a home visit and initial meeting. Our process is here

Yes, all dogs we rehome are fully vaccinated, microchipped, and spayed/neutered as appropriate for their age and health and role requirements.

NB It is usual for working roles to require dogs not to be neutered, especially under 2 years old, due to hormone impact on growth and temperament for larger breeds.

We greatly appreciate donations, which go directly to caring for our dogs and expanding our rescue operations. You can also support us by volunteering, fostering, or attending our events.

Our volunteers help with everything from dog training and transportation to administrative support and social media. If you have a skill or time to share, we’d love to hear from you!

Yes! We plan to host training weekends designed to equip new fosters and breed enthusiasts with the essential skills and knowledge for working with Malinois and Dutch Herders. These events also provide an opportunity for experienced owners to share insights, fostering a strong and supportive community. We welcome anyone interested in learning more about these breeds, with our first sessions anticipated to start in spring 2025, pending funding applications.

All event details, including dates and locations, will be posted on our website and Facebook page. Follow us to stay updated on upcoming opportunities!

Below is a little bit more about them however, if you have more questions please get in touch or speak to someone who already owns and trains these breeds of dog.

The Belgian Malinois or Dutch Herder are highly loyal, intelligent, and trainable breed, well-suited to an active lifestyle and eager for both mental and physical challenges. Known for their energy, intelligence and incredible trainability these dogs thrive with owners who can engage them regularly in activities, whether it’s training, exercise, or structured play. Belgian Malinois live on average 12-14 years and often retain their vitality even as they age. At 10 years old, they can still exhibit the same enthusiasm and vigour they had at 5, making them a lifelong companion for those who appreciate their lively spirit.

However, they are not low-maintenance dogs. Their high intelligence and strong work drive mean they need structured, consistent mental stimulation and tasks to keep them engaged. They’re naturally protective and sometimes wary of strangers, and their strong alert instincts can make them vocal, often barking to signal any unusual activity. Relaxed, low-activity days can be challenging for a Malinois or Herder, who typically won’t settle for a Sunday afternoon on the sofa without some form of engagement or outdoor activity, even in less-than-ideal weather.

Training is essential from a young age, and it should be ongoing and thoughtful, focusing on positive reinforcement, socialization and crate training.

Socializing a Malinois requires more than simple dog park visits; they need to experience various settings calmly to avoid over-arousal, which could lead to issues like nipping or unwanted behaviour’s.

Left alone or without a purpose, they’ll often create their own “tasks,” which might not align with a calm home environment. Teaching a Malinois or Herder an “off switch” is key; this is the ability to relax and settle down when needed, which can be especially useful for preventing over-arousal in the home.

Crate training can also provide a structured space for them to rest and feel secure, allowing them to develop a sense of calm in the house and respect boundaries.

While they are incredible companions for active individuals, Belgian Malinois are not always the ideal choice for families with small children or households with small pets. Their strong prey drive can lead to herding behaviours around small animals and young children, as well as an instinct to chase moving creatures, including squirrels and cats.

In terms of health, Belgian Malinois or Dutch Herders are generally hardy breeds with few hereditary health issues, making them a durable, energetic do anything dog when provided with proper care, structure, and plenty of activity.