In all fairness some of that confusion is probably caused by a lack of standardized terms and definitions. I think we can all agree that it is a significant part of a trainer's job to acquire the maximum potential from an individual dog for a chosen task. This is especially true for the patrol dog trainer but also applies to any ethical, dedicated dog trainer The nearly pure instinctual animal called the Malinois has forced us to sharpen our training skills. Everything about the Malinois is pronounced - good and bad. In short, the Malinois forces you to be a better trainer.
Trainers are much like racecar drivers past and present.
An Indy driver from the 1950's acquired skills to drive that vintage racecar to its potential. However, if you place the same driver with the same skills in an Indy car today, he will not be able to take this incredible modern machine much faster than the car he had in the 50's. This driver is limited to skills developed for the 1950's racer. Conversely, an Indy driver today can race both types of cars. The modern driver's skill level has had to increase over the years because of the increase in speed and technology.