I had an excellent experience with Iran…
I had an excellent experience with Iran and the handler, top notch. They answered all my questions plus made my wife and I feel welcome
Richard Yoebstl
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Ruidoso Malinois
4.550 reviews
Last reviewed: Jan 25, 2026Do you agree with Ruidoso Malinois's TrustScore? Voice your opinion today and hear what 66 customers have already said.
www.ruidosomalinois.comMember since Feb 2026
Ruidoso Malinois is an online company. Based on 50 reviews on TrustPlane, it has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Last reviewed January 25, 2026.
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50 reviews
Beautiful well trained Malinois
My husband and I contacted Irene about a family companionship dog. She promptly returned our request with a possible match and photos of one of the most beautiful boys we had ever seen!! After hearing about Hank’s training and temperament we immediately agreed he was the one for us and headed down to NM. We loved our stay in the Ruidoso area and meeting our new dog. The training they offered was rewarding and informative. They worked with us individually to ensure we were both comfortable handling such a powerful and intelligent boy. Knowing we had another Malinois waiting for us at home, both Irene and our trainer worked with us on how to slowly introduce them to each other in the home to ensure they respected each other. We followed their suggested slow pace and specific instructions to a tee and they are the very best of friends now! Hank is an absolutely wonderful dog and We adore him. People stop us almost daily to ask about him. ( Did I mention how gorgeous he is?) We also do dog sports with him. He is highly ranked both state and nation wide in barn hunt. As well as being a highly competitive and driven dog, he is a well-mannered and loyal family pet. He is very civilized and even tempered in public, but is also a very serious and formidable looking dog. We want to thank Irene for matching us up with this wonderful boy. He is arguably the best dog we've ever had. While we don’t even want to think about this, when the time comes that we are looking for another dog, Irene will be our first call.
Wendy
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My experience with Ruidoso Malanois
My experience with Ruidoso Malanois was amazing from my first contact with Irene Howcroft. Her expertise regarding the Malanois was extraordinary. Her kindness and generosity made my experience a pleasure.The next level of our experience was our dog's trainer, Justin Rivera. He literally knew what my dog was thinking. I could go on for a long time singing their praises. Suffice to say, every moment was perfect. My Malanois is a masterpiece. Thank you Irene and Justin!
jerry levine
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Just came home with our Belgian…
Just came home with our Belgian Malinois Fanny on October 19. We spent 5 days training with Jay and Ty which taught us how to control Fanny in protection mode as well as obedience. Taught voice control with our girl as well. Irene fit us with the perfect dog for our family. We are so glad we chose Ruidoso Malinois.
Duane Gibson
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Our experience with Ruidoso Malinois…
Our experience with Ruidoso Malinois Kennel has been nothing short of phenomenal. Irene, the owner, is exceptionally knowledgeable about the Malinois breed and approaches dog placement with a meticulous standard of care. From our initial conversation, it was clear that Irene was committed to finding the perfect match for our family. She took the time to understand our family dynamics, specific needs, and lifestyle, ensuring that her recommendations were tailored to us.Irene identified several potential dogs and patiently discussed the unique traits of each, explaining why they might be a perfect fit. However, her integrity truly shone when she expressed concerns about the bite behavior of our initial choice. Although we were initially disappointed, her commitment to providing only the best was evident, and we deeply respected her decision.We were thrilled to receive Cortos, a dog beyond our wildest expectations. Irene's dedication to excellence led her to gift us her very own dog, Cortos, who is not only stunning and obedient but also fiercely protective of our family. His well-balanced temperament is a testament to Irene's expertise.Before Cortos arrived, I flew from Atlanta to New Mexico and drove two hours to see Irene's kennel. It was worth every mile. The operation is impressive, with a pristine environment and beautiful, well-cared-for dogs.The two trainers who guided us through the handlers course were phenomenal, making the experience enjoyable and informative. I waited five months before writing this review, ensuring Cortos was a stable, reliable companion. He has exceeded all expectations and it’s hard not to show him off around town.When we decide to expand our family further, Ruidoso Malinois Kennel will be our only choice. Thank you, Irene and your amazing staff, for this five-star experience. We couldn't be happier!
Craig Oliver
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I got my Malinois from them six years…
I got my Malinois from them six years ago, best dog I have ever had and I have had some awesome dogs over my life, have two fifty gal. plastic bags full of ribbons to prove it. When you spend time around a well bred dog you can see and tell the difference from the rest of the pack. One of the things I truly appreciated was being questioned about my dog experience, if I was just a pet owner looking for a pet this dog and his breed would have most likely ended in disaster for me and the dog. The “interview” to see if I would be an appropriate owner was more than needed. As I said he is the best dog I have owned and I highly recommend this breeder/trainer
Tonio Brown
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Awesome
From the first phone conversation with Irene, she listen to what I was looking for in a dog. Irene contacted me saying she had a dog for me and he would be ready in a couple of months. Upon arrival in May Irene had selected the most awesome dog Rama. My trainer Chris was also awesome to work with. I have been home a week with Rama and could not ask for a better and well mannered dog. Irene and her staff are very professional and very knowledgeable. I would highly recommend Ruidoso Malinois to anyone considering a Malinois. I know I look forward to acquiring a another one in the future to add to my family!!! Thank you Irene you chose a super awesome Rama to be apart of my family!!!!
David Smith
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Satisfied Retired Army SGM
I am a retired Army SGM and disabled combat veteran; I have long admired the Belgian Malinois breed but became slightly obsessed with the breed after seeing them in action during my combat tour in Afghanistan. Unfortunately, post combat, I was diagnosed with PTSD that left me constantly in a state of hyper vigilance; a feeling that there was an endless threat of unknown harm to myself or my Family. This affected my quality of life severely; as a single woman of a certain age, I no longer felt safe taking walks alone, traveling alone. Even attending church was problematic; that strong sense of being vulnerable to a threat I couldn’t name but my brain held me hostage over. I avoided crowded events like the plague. I couldn’t sleep soundly and felt that I constantly needed to be alert and watching for danger.I was wintering in Mexico when I happened upon Ruidoso Malinois during a Google search and I called the owner, Irene Howcroft the next day. From our first phone interview, Irene understood my plight and actually identified one of her Mals, Larry, that she said would be perfect for me. Larry would be ready in a few months; however, I explained I needed to get my knee replaced and heal before I could pick him up and attend the 5-day handler training. Irene, without hesitation, kept Larry for me, until I was healed and able to come for him; she felt that strongly that Larry was my dog.She was right! I traveled to NM to meet and train with Larry; the handler training was amazing. Chris, a Marine veteran, provided excellent training and upon our departure I felt equipped with all the knowledge and tools to bring Larry back to MT. I am so grateful I found Irene and Ruidoso Malinois! I cannot speak more highly of her business, expertise; I’m beyond grateful for Larry. He’s become my best friend; what a sweet disposition he has. I love him and trust him and I’m pretty sure the feeling is mutual! We spend time taking long walks and he couldn’t be happier chasing after balls. He’s energetic and eager to please, loves car rides and is extra alert for any danger. I haven’t slept this well in years. I now feel confident to go anywhere as long as Larry is with me. I have no doubt he will protect me. I have the best companion, service dog and protector! Thank you, Irene!
lisa
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Top-Notch Experience & Service
It has taken me a bit to write this review as we wanted to make sure the transition into daily life went well. Now that everyone is settled in we can say without a doubt that the experience and service we received from Ruidoso Malinois was top notch.We began our search after our GSD of 12 years passed unexpectedly, and we already knew we wanted another working dog. From the beginning Irene was crystal clear as to the expectations she had for her establishment as well as those for potential buyers. The depth for which she cares about these animals during their upbringing and after placement is self evident. For about 3-4 weeks my wife and I asked about every question under the sun, and Irene thoroughly answered every single one.Irene selected a protection male and companion female for us. The most important factor being our family dynamic. We have three children (13, 3, & 1 yo) and their safety and comfort are paramount to us. Rey and Leighla were the perfect selection for our family. Rey is very level headed and knows when to turn on and I can now say, after a couple of months transitioning him into our home, that he is very patient around our young ones. It goes without saying, animals are animals, and we always have eyes on the kids and our dogs when they are intermingled. Leighla is an absolute love bug, and is very playful with both the kids and Rey, which was also very important for us. While we live an active life style, we cannot always have both pups with us, so the fact that they love being around one another and keep each other active is a huge must.The 1-week introduction and handler school provided by Irene and her team was amazing, and I am very glad that they offer this service. From what I have read and heard of from other establishments, you could span from a 1-2 day school to a similar week. We certainly wanted a full week to fully introduce our family, see how the dogs paired as well as learn proper handling for both dogs, but especially Rey. We left with absolute confidence after this process. We want to give a huge shout out to Brian for his years upon years of experience and patience with our 13 yo during handler training.To end a lengthy blurb: Professional experience through and through, from inquiry to leaving with two new family additions. 10/10 would recommend Ruidoso Malinois for your personal protection, family protection, and companion dog needs.Thank you again Irene!Sincerely,The Hilton Family
Matt Hilton
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I highly recommend Ruidoso Malinois
I highly recommend Ruidoso Malinois, Irene and her team. She is direct and honest, which I appreciate. She matched me with Zimba and what a perfect match it is.Zimba responds best when I do what the trainers instructed me to do during our 5 day training sessions. It's pretty simple. The animals are educated and we have to get on their level.This particular dog is amazing. He's loving, he communicates and he really just wants to please me and work.Trust the high ratings as you'll notice that the lower ones have less to do with the animals and more to do with being told "no"
Scott Percifull
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Hands down the best
If you want an amazing trained dog, go to Ruidoso Malinois. Irene and her team of trainers are hands down amazing. I was in the market to get a service dog for my ptsd. I did my research and found Ruidoso Malinois. On the first call, I felt like I made the right choice. I understand the whole working dog world as I was a dog musher before moving to warmer weather. I understand the demand for running a large kennel. Irene does an outstanding job. the kennel was very clean and laid out nicely. it was not overly loud and it did not smell of dog waste. If you choose this kennel please understand that it is a true working dog kennel and Irene can not always talk to you. She will do her best to keep you in the loop but there will be times you don't hear from her as she is running a business. Best have some thick skin. Irene is an amazing dog person and is very passionate about her dogs most will say she is not very personable but that is not true. this woman will place you with a dog that fits you perfectly and is just ensuring the dogs are getting the best care at their new homes. My Malinois Izana was a perfect dog for me and what I was looking for and she is the first Ruidoso Malinois in Hawaii. just make sure you know what you are getting yourself into before getting a Mal. I will definitely be back if I need another mal in my life. one of the best investments of my life
Troy B
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Totally satisfied and highly recommended
My wife and I purchased a family protection dog from Ruidoso Malinois and could not have been happier with the experience. Irine was great to work with and her trainers are amazing. We spent 4 days in handler school at her facility and learned invaluable skills that will make us better owners and will help our dog perform properly with all of his training. We are completely satisfied and highly recommend Irine and Ruidoso Malinois.
Richard Shea
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We got a once in a lifetime dog
We are so happy we got our dog Adad through Ruidoso Malinois! Before Adad, we had a once in a lifetime dog who passed. We knew we wanted to fill that hole, but we were a little nervous about looking for a new dog after having her. We told Irene about our family and what we were looking for and she immediately said, "you want Adad." Amazingly, Adad is another once in a lifetime, special dog. He is incredibly well mannered, calm, confident, intelligent and affectionate, just like they said. He's also the softest most handsome boy. Irene really picked the perfect dog for our family. He has been great with our son. We've had a great experience with Irene. Yes she is protective, but she is actually a very warm person, she just wants to make sure her dogs are going to good responsible people. These dogs are athletic, intense, sensitive, and capable. They could do a lot of damage with an irresponsible pet owner. It would be irresponsible and unfair to not vet someone first. I found her criteria very reasonable as she understands dogs, especially after the nonsense we went through when we considered adopting from a shelter. If you're an inpatient person, you should know the process of them training your dog until receiving them takes a while. Irene seems pretty busy with her business and sometimes takes a little to get back to you too, but she will get back to you. We understood and it was totally worth it. I also really appreciated the handler's course! I've taken some Michael Ellis courses online, but nothing beats learning how to teach your dog, in person, with a dog trainer watching and correcting you. I learned a lot in about our dog and training in general in a few short sessions. I could not give this kennel a stronger recommendation. We're over the moon about our new buddy.
Nina Radley
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10 out of 5 Highly Recommend
We are very pleased with Ruidoso Malinois. Irene was patient, thorough and professional. We are so blessed to have been matched with Lery. He is affectionate, crazy, obedient and can be on task in a second. What a great addition to our family. Also, we would like to highly recommend his trainers and Ruidoso Malinois, Darrin and Brian and Jack. They were fun, professional and highly skilled. Please give them a call for the best cared for and trained Malinois in the world. We highly, highly recommend Ruidoso Malinois.Kindly, The V Family of CA
Eric
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I'm a disabled Veteran !
I'm a disabled Vet. DEALING AFTER/SIDE EFFECTS OF 6 years at Marine base Camp Lejeune and have twice requested a quote on a obedience trained puppy to replace my current (PTS) SERVICE ANIMAL a LOYAL/LOVING MALE 11 year old, White English Southern Bulldog ORIGINAL BLOODLINE OF THE AMERICAN BULLDOG they only replied after, I threatened to post this review !SPEAK ENGLISH, AGAIN, I DID NOT UNDERSTAND ,,eWe,, NOR COULD, I HEAR ,,eWe,, ON THE PHONE THAT IS WHY, I HUNG UP ON ,,eWe,, AND LAST WEEK THE E-MAIL, I SENT WAS ACKNOWLEDGED AS BEING RECEIVED AS IT WAS THIS MORNING ,,eWe,, contacted me AFTER POSTING A BAD REVIEW AND STILL NO PRICE FOR A TRAINED PUPPY GO AWAY !After reading the reviews about people whom have had dealing with ,,eWe,, NO THANK ,,eWe,, AGAIN I COULD NOT UNDERSTAND OR HEAR ,,EWE,, ON THE PHONE SO, I HUNG UP !I HAVE ALREADY FOUND A PUPPY FROM REPARABLE TRAINER THAT DOESN'T FEEL ENTITLED AND AGAIN A COULD NOT UNDERSTAND ,,EWE,, ON THE PHONE SO, I HUNG UP !
James Whitehead
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Exceptional Facility and Dogs
I cant say enough about the process or training that my daughter and I received while purchaing our new dog from Irene at Ruidioso Malinios! From the moment you arrive you can tell that serious thought is taken to ensure the health and safety of the animals and that its a quality facility. Our trainer, Ernie, was wonderful and so paitent with my 11 year old daughter who tends to be very shy. If your considering buying a great dog, look no further. On the flight home we got more than a dozen compliments through the airport and flights on how well behaved and impressive Sam was! Thank you Irene!Dennis Malin
Dennis
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Had the pleasure of getting my Malinois…
Had the pleasure of getting my Malinois from Irene and had been thoroughly satisfied with her care for her dogs and the kind of home each dog goes to. I messaged her to ask how to get my other dogs to be more accepting to my new Malinois and she call right away and explained what I should do and boom, they are best friends now. Her care for her dogs is unwavering and she is very quick to answer my questions either by phone or text. I have recommended my family members to her to go through the process to getting one of her beautiful dogs. If you are looking for a well tempered, well loved Malinois then Ruidoso Malinois is the perfect place to acquire one. You won’t be disappointed with Irene’s care, compassion and customer service.
Lacrederick Jackson
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Highly recommended
My wife and I are great fans of the Belgian Malinois breed, and recently acquired a "Mal" from Ruidoso Malinois. I am happy to report that we were very pleased with the experience! I had several conversations with Irene Howcroft, owner of the business, prior to making the decision to purchase a dog from her. Irene helped us select a wonderful dog who is perfect for us. Irene provided marvelous counsel to us and answered all our questions in detail as we worked through the decision process to acquire our "Ema." Irene also provided regular updates while the dog was being trained to meet our needs and was very supportive during our on-site training experience. She continues to make herself available to us when we need information and/or guidance. Prior to contacting Irene, I read many positive reviews describing the work and approach of Irene and her Ruidoso Malinois staff. Their service and support for us during our acquisition of our dog, Ema, was consistent with the best of those reviews. If you are considering the acquisition of a Belgian Malinois for any purpose, I urge you to consider Irene Howcroft and the staff at Ruidoso Malinois.
David C
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I am in love
I am in love. There is no other explanation for it and it’s all Ruidoso Malinois’ fault. They trained the most amazing and loving dog I have ever met. Tyson, a male Belgian Malinois, was heaven sent for me. Tyson is dual use- he is trained as a service dog for me as well as personal protection. He’s equal parts chill partner at my feet monitoring my health and wellbeing for my affliction while I write inside and strong protector of me and my family outside. Let me tell you how this love affair started. I began speaking to Irene, the owner of Ruidoso Malinois, five years ago because my girlfriend at the time had a stalker. I also told her that my doctor had recommended that I consider a service dog as my affliction was getting worse as I got older. I wasn’t ready for the dog at the time but we began communicating and I explained that I lived an unusual life— I am a filmmaker and I travel a lot, mostly overseas. Irene explained that this was not a problem. Last year, I told her I was ready for a dog and she explained that she had the perfect dog for me. After some fits and starts, I was finally ready to meet my dog this fall. Irene sent extensive material on diet and dog products to read. I went to New Mexico to meet and work with Tyson. It takes about a week to work with your dog before you understand the entire gamut of its training. Ruidoso Malinois is one of the world’s leaders in training Mals. They are spectacular and have deep, granular knowledge of what makes a successful dog for people from years of working with and the training of Malinois dogs and thoroughly understanding the specific needs of the clients. Its tough for a woman to be the leader in a traditionally male run community but Irene is strong and yet leads her team with intelligence and elan. She has a psychology background which I am sure she leveraged to fully understand me which, in turn, ensured that the dog she trained for me was exactly the one I needed. Day one, I met Tyson and his skills were demonstrated for me. It was impressive. I returned in the afternoon and had my first session working my dog. Tyson looked directly into my eyes and l knew he would be perfect. He is amazingly affectionate and we were a pair immediately. I took him back to my airbnb that night and he slept like a log on his dog bed. The team recommends you bring his crate with you but Tyson was happy and comfortable to sleep on the dog bed that I brought with me. For the next four days, I had two sessions a day learning to work with Tyson. Tyson is highly trained and it was important to spend as much time with the team so I could learn and be comfortable handling Tyson with confidence and ease. Tuesday was advanced obedience, working step by step on sit, stay, lay down, come, break, etc. Then to understand the service dog cues. The team builds your confidence step by step so by Tuesday, I felt comfortable with Tyson in all sorts of obedience requirements. Tyson is amazingly obedient and wants to perform for me. He loves to play and be affectionate and yet is capable of handling serious situations. A protection dog is particularly complex and the rest of the week was working with the team and Tyson so I became at ease with the protection elements. There are two sessions a day. Wednesday I worked both sessions on the protection skills. Thursday was really a day to learn how to evade confrontations. This is important because not every threat is going to come for you. Sometimes a warning is enough to keep bad people at bay or maybe they were actually not a threat to begin with. Friday was redoing the protection techniques as well as learning about how to use the dog when there are two suspects or a carjacking. Tyson is completely at ease with my living situation and the rest of the people in my household. I return to Paris this year to shoot a film and Tyson will be joining me the entire way. (Tyson came fully prepared with all his shots, proof of vet visits, and chipped— ready for a year or two of international travel at my side.) Thank you Ruidoso Malinois for the friend I never thought I needed and for the one I now cannot live without.
Larry Sullivan
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Top Tier Dogs
If your looking for a superior malinois Irene Howcroft is top tier. I drove 1500 miles both ways to get my pup and it was worth every mile. I had an extensive phone interview with her and you will know right away she lives and breaths this dog breed. Her kennel is superior and you'll know (and feel it) when you see it 1st hand.
Eric Exploration Unknown
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According to TrustPlane, Ruidoso Malinois has a 4.5/5 rating based on 50 verified reviews as of February 2026. Source: trustplane.app/company/www-ruidosomalinois-com