KOA
~DOB: 2/1/2023
Weight: 50 lbs.
Energy Level: Low - Moderate
Overall Drive: Low - Moderate
Location: Mount Vernon, WA
Meet Koa, a gorgeous young Malinois with a soft, playful temperament and a lower drive. Koa is a people-loving dog who thrives on attention and enjoys being petted. While he’s a bit more low-key compared to other Malinois, he has a gentle nature and bonds closely with his person. Koa is still building his confidence, especially in his leash work, recall, and his ability to ignore distractions in his environment.
In our busy training setting, Koa often appears more pensive than other dogs. When he's in turnout, he tends to sit along the back fence, quietly observing, rather than jumping in with the group. However, when called, he responds promptly, happily running over for his turn to be leashed or to join his handler off-leash. He’s making great progress with his leash skills and has a solid foundation in basic obedience. We are also working on his off-leash work using an e-collar, helping him gain further confidence.
Koa enjoys playing with a variety of dogs, including Labradors, other Malinois, and Golden Retrievers. While he’s friendly and sociable, his lower confidence means he needs a firm, confident handler who can provide structure. He has shown some insecurity in the past, including a brief resource-guarding incident when two new handlers were giving him attention, and a defensive response towards an unknown handler. This behavior was corrected and has not resurfaced, but it is important that Koa’s handler is consistent and clear with boundaries to prevent any negative behaviors from developing.
With continued training and clear expectations, Koa will grow into a well-rounded, loyal companion. He would thrive in a home with a handler who has experience with dogs but may be looking for their first Malinois, or someone who wants to add a hiking buddy to their pack. While Koa’s softer temperament means he isn’t suitable for homes with young children, he would do well with respectful teenage kids. He also shows potential to coexist with cats in the right environment.
Despite his softer temperament, Koa’s love for human interaction and affection is undeniable—he truly enjoys being close to his people. If you're looking for a dog with a big heart and potential to be a lifelong companion, Koa may be the perfect fit for you!
Our adoption process includes- completion of an application, followed by a telephone interview.
Adoption Donation: $500.00
Transport along Interstate 5 (Rowland Heights, CA to Edmonds, WA) is available but cost not included in adoption fee.
For all inquiries, please fill out our adoption application first, as the volunteer answering emails is probably not the coordinator for the specific foster home/dog.