I think the problem is AKC.
A dog that has AKC standards doesn’t necessarily meet the breed standard for it’s working ability.
Actually there really isn’t that much difference in the standards.
The problem is like the Constitution - the elite pay lip service while in truth ignoring the document.
The United Kennel Club is a better organization for standards, in my humble opinion. Going to a UKC breed specific show is like watching paint dry.
The judge goes over each dog in depth, judging not just “looks”/structure, but also temperament, attention, drive, and working ability. The OWNER must show their own dog at a UKC show, no handlers allowed!
And, each dog is given a report on their dog, by the judge, with comments on everything the judge noticed.
If anyone is interested in getting a good Belgian, whether Mal, Groen, or Terv, I would recommend going to a UKC show, talking with the breeders showing thier dogs, finding out what their breeding program is about, meeting their dogs, and forming a relationship with the breeder that seems to have dogs you feel comfortable with.
Then, be ready for a serious interview about your facilities, your experience with dogs, your intended activities, etc. Good breeders will not sell a dog to someone they do not feel will give the dog a good forever home, and you will have to sign a contract, and will have to neuter a “pet” quality dog.