The Belgian Malinois is an elegant breed that looks powerful even without being bulky. Their roots are of herding dogs, but they were later used as military and police dogs too.
These dogs might look similar to German Shepherds, but they are purebreds. Keep reading to know more about the Belgian Malinois Dog breed.
About The Breed
The Belgian Malinois name might look tricky to pronounce, so here’s a way to pronounce it “Mal-in-wah.”
At first, you might think of this dog as a German Shepherd because they look very similar to each other.
The Malinois dogs are fawn-colored and short-haired with a black mask. There are four types of Belgian herding dogs, and they are one of them. Their roots are in Malines, Belgium.
These dogs are filled with stamina and love working. They are highly active and intelligent creatures that have the skill to do many tasks.
Apart from herding, these dogs are also used in rescue, search, police work, and sometimes in dog events too.
People who haven’t heard about this breed will probably consider them German Shepherds, but there are some important differences between these two breeds.
The Belgian Malinois dogs have lighter bones and are smaller in size. They have a square body look, while the German Shepherd has a long back.
The Malinois is generally found in red, fawn, or brown colors, whereas the German Shepherd has a tan color.
Belgian Malinois Dog Breed History
There are four types of Belgian Sheepdogs or Belgian Shepherds, and the Belgian Malinois is one of those.
The four types are the Laekenois (coarse coat, fawn-colored), the Malinois (short coat, mahogany-fawn), the Groenendael (long coat, black-colored), and the Tervuren (long coat, mahogany-fawn).
Since 1959, the Belgian Malinois has been considered a separate breed. All these four breeds are collectively known as Chiens de Berger Belge.
Of all the four breeds, the Belgian Sheepdogs are the most popular in Belgium. They became popular in America between 1911 and WW II, but their supply decreased after the war.
They grew in numbers again. They are loved by people today primarily because of their reputation as excellent police dogs.
You might not see them in every house, but they are known as peacekeepers.
Belgian Malinois Dog Breed Job Card/Overview
| Breed Name | Belgian Malinois |
| Other Name | The Mal |
| Dog Breed Type | Herding dogs |
| Origin | Belgium |
| Parent Breeds | None |
| Height | 22-26 inches |
| Weight | 40-80 pounds |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years |
| Coat Type | Straight, Short |
| Common Colors | Mahogany, Rich fawn, Red |
| Grooming Needs | Low-maintenance |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Temperament | Obedient, Smart, Protective |
| Apartment Living | Suitable for apartment living |
| Pet-Friendly | Yes |
| Health Concerns | Viral and bacterial infections, cataracts, hemangiosarcoma |
| Overall Health | Healthy |
| Intelligence Level | High |
| Trainability | Medium |
| Energy Level | Very high |
| Activity | Active |
| Litter Size | 4-6 puppies |
What To Know
• These dogs require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and prevent behavior problems.
• Belgian Malinois have a short, dense coat that sheds seasonally, so grooming and regular brushing are essential.
• Early socialization and consistent training are crucial to ensure a well-behaved Belgian Malinois.
• Health concerns to watch for include hip dysplasia and certain genetic conditions; regular vet check-ups are essential.
Characteristics
Adaptability
The Belgian Malinois is a remarkable dog breed known for its exceptional adaptability.
These intelligent and energetic canines thrive in various roles, from loyal family pets to skilled working dogs.
Their versatility shines in law enforcement, search and rescue, and agility competitions.
Their innate ability to quickly learn and adjust to new tasks and environments makes them a top choice for many dog enthusiasts.
Adaptability
Adaptive to Apartment Living
Suitable for New Owners
Sensitivity Scale
Comfortable Being Alone
Comfortable with Cold Weather
Comfortable with Hot Weather
Friendliness
Belgian Malinois dogs form strong bonds with their owners and are incredibly sociable. They thrive on human interaction, making them ideal companions.
Their affectionate nature extends to strangers as well, often eager to greet newcomers with a wagging tail and a warm heart.
This friendly disposition, coupled with their protective instincts, makes Belgian Malinois dogs exceptional family pets and loyal protectors, blending an affectionate demeanor with a watchful eye, ensuring a warm welcome to all.
All About Friendliness
Lovable with Family
Kid-Friendly
Dog-Friendly
Frank with strangers
Personality
The Belgian Malinoiss are excellent working dogs that act protective and confident in any type of situation.
They love their family but act alert around strangers until they are sure of them as friendly. Their watchdog instincts are commendable.
They know how much force is needed to take care of their property and people. Aggression or shyness are not commonly found in this breed.
They are attentive to what their owners say and always ready to please them. That said, it becomes an easy job to train them.
Don’t try to use harsh or abusive techniques with them while doing any activity or training, as they don’t like to be ordered around. Be their leader and give positive feedback.
Like all dogs, the Belgian Malinois needs socialization too from a young age to be on its best behavior around new people or in new places.
They are intense and want to be involved in every activity happening around them.
Temperament
Friendly with Children
Belgian Malinois dogs are renowned for their friendly nature with children. Their loyal and affectionate demeanor makes them excellent family pets.
These intelligent and energetic canines easily adapt to a family environment, forming strong bonds with kids.
However, proper training and supervision are essential to ensure a harmonious relationship between the Malinois and young family members, keeping playtime safe and enjoyable for all.
Amicable to Other Pets
Belgian Malinois dogs are known for their amicable nature when it comes to other pets.
These intelligent and friendly canines often get along well with other animals, making them great companions for households with multiple pets.
With proper socialization and training, Belgian Malinois dogs can coexist harmoniously with other animals, fostering a peaceful and happy environment for all.
Barking Tendencies
Belgian Malinois dogs are known for their alert and protective nature, which can lead to occasional barking.
These intelligent and active canines may bark to signal strangers or alert their owners to potential threats.
Training and socialization are crucial to managing their barking tendencies, helping them differentiate between real dangers and everyday stimuli.
Regular exercise and mental stimulation can also reduce excessive barking in these loyal and spirited companions.
Possibilities of Staying Alone
Belgian Malinois dogs are known for their independence. They can entertain themselves with toys and puzzles, making them suitable for solo living.
However, it’s essential to provide mental stimulation and exercise to prevent boredom and potentially destructive behavior.
Proper training and a structured routine ensure a harmonious experience for both you and your Malinois.
Pros And Cons Of The Belgian Malinois Dog Breed
Pros
- High intelligence and trainability.
- Exceptional work and agility.
- Strong loyalty and protection.
- Low grooming needs.
- Energetic and lively personality.
Cons
- Intense exercise demands.
- Requires consistent training.
- May be too intense for beginners.
- Potential for aggression if mishandled.
- Frequent mental stimulation necessary.
Male Vs. Female Attitude
The attitude of a Belgian Malinois can differ depending on the environment, size, and age, regardless of their gender.
Generally, both male and female dogs of this breed will have a protective nature and be lovable around their families.
Appearance
General Appearance
The Belgian Malinois dog boasts a striking general appearance. Their sleek, muscular bodies are well-proportioned, exuding strength and agility.
They possess a noble, intelligent expression with almond-shaped eyes that convey alertness.
Their short, dense coat is typically mahogany with a black mask. Ears stand erect, adding to their alert, poised demeanor, making them an impressive and attractive breed.
Coat Color
The Belgian Malinois has two layers of coat- a straight and short overcoat and a dense undercoat.
The coat texture is hard, which makes it weather-resistant. The common coat colors of this breed are mahogany and fawn with a black mask and ears.
The fur might have black tips that will give the impression of an overlay. The underside of their tails, bodies, and breaches can have lighter fawn shades.
Their waterproof coats are easy to maintain. Brushing once a week will be enough to get rid of dead hair.
During the shedding season, shift their brushing schedule to daily. Clip their nails to avoid painful overgrowths and unnecessary scratching.
Make your dog used to such grooming sessions from a young age. Grooming should be a relaxing session for them, not full of irritation or barking. Take the help of a professional groomer if you can’t do it yourself.
Shedding
The Belgian Malinois shed year-round, and the shedding quantity might increase during the fall and spring seasons.
During this time of the year, daily brushing should be done to maintain their coat’s health.
Size
The Belgian Malinois are medium-sized dogs that grow between 22 to 26 inches and weigh between 40-80 pounds. They are smaller in size as compared to the German Shepherds.
Health
Generally, the Belgian Malinois is a healthy breed, but there are some health concerns you need to be aware of. Regular vet visits can help to avoid such issues.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
- Anesthesia Sensitivity
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
Health And Grooming Requirements
Shedding Quantity
Drooling Capability
Effortless to Groom
Overall Health
Capable of Gaining Weight
Size
Maintenance And Care
If you give enough and proper exercise to your Belgian Malinois, they can even become suitable for small quarters.
They like to be in cold weather but can adapt well to hot weather as well. You should consider them as your family member and let them live indoors.
Off-leash activities should also be done in your backyard, apart from jogging and taking them on long walks.
They love working and being in action. They can become your hike or jog partner.
Brush their teeth daily at home, and professional teeth cleaning should also be done to keep their dental health good.
Keep cleaning and checking their ears to remove any infection or bacteria.
Grooming
Grooming a Belgian Malinois is straightforward due to its short, dense coat. Regular brushing with a stiff bristle brush will keep their fur clean and remove loose hair.
Bathing should be done only as needed to avoid drying out their skin. Keep their ears clean and check for debris to prevent infections.
Regular nail trimming and dental care are essential for overall health and hygiene.
Food And Nutrition
Give dry and high-quality dog food in quantities of 2-3 cups a day. You can divide these into two meals a day.
There are different types of dog food depending on their age, size, and other factors, and the quantity might vary too.
Before planning a diet plan for your Belgian Malinois, ask your vet about your dog’s particular needs and then form a plan.
This will help to give your dog a happy and healthy lifestyle. Generally, this is a very active breed, and their dietary needs will change as they become old.
Exercise And Activity Level
The Belgian Malinois dogs have high energy and sensitivity levels which makes it a must to get them to exercise daily.
Leisure long walks won’t satisfy them, so get ready to exercise with them for hours. They will love to jog with you, go on hikes, or do any activity that requires stamina and agility.
New owners won’t get the hang of exercising them, so a dog trainer would be a good idea here.
Physical Requirements
Energy range
Intensity
Exercise Requirements
Capable for Playfulness
Trainability
Belgian Malinois dogs are renowned for their exceptional trainability. Their sharp intelligence, unwavering focus, and eagerness to please make them quick learners.
Whether it’s obedience, agility, or protection training, these canines excel. Consistency, positive reinforcement, and a firm but gentle approach work best when training a Belgian Malinois.
Their herding instincts and high energy levels demand regular mental and physical stimulation. Early socialization is crucial to ensure they interact well with other animals and people.
Trainability
Effortless to Train
Smartness
Capable for Mouthiness
Tendency to Attack Prey
Urge to Howl or Bark
Wanderlust Ability
Children and other pets
If you raise a Belgian Malinois with a household full of children and pets, they are going to bond with them well.
However, if they are the only kid in the house, they will grow protective of their family. So early socialization will help them in both cases, with or without kids.
As the history of being herders, they might nip at kids or pets smaller than them and try to herd them. Try to supervise every play session and control this herding behavior.
Conclusion
The Belgian Malinois were originally bred as herding dogs but became popular for their work as police dogs. They also made a huge contribution during World War I.
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FAQs On Belgian Malinois Dog Breed…
Where do the Belgian Malinois dog breeds come from?
Belgian Malinois dogs originated in Belgium. They are one of four Belgian shepherd breeds and were initially developed for herding and guarding livestock in the late 19th century.
What is the best diet routine for a Belgian Malinois dog?
A balanced diet for a Belgian Malinois includes high-quality dog food, lean protein, vegetables, and limited treats.
How much exercise is required for a Belgian Malinois?
A Belgian Malinois requires at least 1.5 to 2 hours of vigorous exercise daily to stay happy and healthy, thanks to their high energy levels and athleticism.
I am a passionate animal lover with a lifelong commitment to pet care. With over a decade of experience as a pet owner, I’ve nurtured a variety of furry and feathered friends, from cats and dogs to birds and reptiles. I possess a deep understanding of their unique needs, behavior, and health. My mission is to share my knowledge and insights to help fellow pet enthusiasts provide the best possible care for their beloved companions.