Belgian Malinois
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General Description
(Belgian Shepherd Malinois, Malinois, Chien de Berger Belge) The Belgian Malinois is one of four types of Belgian Sheepdogs. Their bodies are square-shaped and are approximately as long as the length of their tail. They are elegantly muscled and agile, and they carry their heads proudly. Their backs are level and feature a slight slope at the withers, and their hindquarters are strong and lean. The breed’s chest is neither wide nor narrow, but it is very deep and reaches to the level of the elbows. Their limbs are straight and parallel and feature round, cat-like feet. The Belgian Malinois has a flat skull that is parallel to the plane of the tapered muzzle. Their nose is black and their teeth meet in a level or scissors bite. They have a pair of triangular ears that stand erect on the head and their small, almond-shaped eyes are dark in color. The tail is very long and reaches to at least the hock. The Belgian Malinois has a short-haired, waterproof coat that ranges in color from fawn-and-red to mahogany. Black tips, a black mask, and/or black ears may be present. White markings are also prevalent in some Belgian Malinois. The hair around the breed’s neck is longer than the hair across the body.Know something we don't? Add it here
Character
The Belgian Malinois is a working breed with an intelligent, obedient temperament and a watchful disposition. They are serious and possess strong protective and territorial instincts. Some Belgian Malinois may be excessively shy or sensitive. It’s important for this breed to receive proper training and thorough socialization from an early age. Without a firm, patient, and understanding trainer, this breed can become destructive or timid. The Belgian Malinois is happiest when he has a job to perform. They thrive on human affection and form strong bonding relationships with one or two people. While the Belgian Malinois is often dominant towards other dogs, they are almost always very gentle and patient with children. If properly socialized from a young age, they are also likely to get along with other dogs and pets.
Size
22 – 26 inches
Weight
55 – 65 pounds
General Health
The Belgian Malinois is a comparatively healthy breed with few major concerns. Skin allergies and eye problems are prevalent in some lines of this breed, and behavior fluctuations (like excessive shyness or aggressiveness) may also be present. Like other large dog breeds, the Belgian Malinois is susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia. Typically this breed lives for 12 to 14 years. The Belgian Malinois averages 6 to 10 puppies per litter.
History
The Belgian Malinois is one of four types of Belgian Sheepdog. The breed was named for the Belgian city of Malines. The Belgian Malinois was recognized as a separate breed in 1959 by the AKC. Although they are quite rare in the United States, the Belgian Malinois is very popular in Belgium. The breed has a number of natural talents and is utilized heavily as a working breed. If properly trained and socialized from an early age, the Belgian Malinois makes an excellent family pet. All four types of Belgian Sheepdogs are hardy working breeds with abilities in hunting, tracking, obedience, protection, detection, and herding.*
The Belgian Malinois was the first of the four Belgian Sheepdogs.
Maintenance
The Belgian Malinois has a smooth, short-haired coat that is easy to groom and take care of. Regular brushing with a firm bristle brush will assist the shedding process. This breed is a light constant shedder, but sheds heavily twice per year during shedding season. The Belgian Malinois should be bathed only as necessary. Too much bathing can remove the waterproofing of the coat.
Ideal Environment
The Belgian Malinois is a working breed that needs plenty of exercise. Because they are accustomed to an active outdoor life, they need as much time off the leash as possible. This breed can live happily in a small household or apartment if they are sufficiently exercised. They are moderately active indoors and are most content with a minimum of a medium-sized yard. Although the Belgian Malinois can live outside, he prefers to sleep inside with his family.
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Ask a QuestionBelgian Malinois Q&A
What type of dogs were bred to make the Malinois? Shepherd and what?
Is the Belgian Malinois a timid and or sensitive breed? Ours doesn't seem to like loud voices, she doesn't like arguing or being yelled at. She can be really stubborn sometimes, not wanting to come in the house when called. Any ideas?
Timidness runs in some of the lines. Try using a favorite squeaky toy, ball or treat (such as cheese) to get your girl to come in from outside. What you have to realize is that outside is a GREAT place to be for a malinois. There are birds and squirrels and other little animals to have fun with. Also when your malinois does come in from outside, even if you have tried for 10 minutes and she finally comes in, don't use a harsh correction. Be happy that she did come to you. Have a party because she did come in. I know that I wouldn't want to come if everytime I did you were unhappy to see me. The more you can reward the coming in, everytime, the faster and more frequent she'll come for you. Give her a reason to want to come in and leave all the wonderful things outside!!! Coming to you and getting yelled at IS NOT better than being outside having a goo time.
I have socialized my European Belgian from 3 months to now 1 yr. old. She is very shy around strangers, will not allow them to touch her, or me. No matter how much I try to social her, she rebels. Is this her protective nature, or just very timid? P.S., we are now training for Shutzhund and she is great at it, will she still be ok with my kids?
My malinois urinates every time I go to put a leash on him. Has anyone else experiences similar anxieties?
It could be that, mine does urinate alot on her walks, it could also be over excitement
I think they are trying to mark their trail or territory. The first few times I walked my malinois around our village, she urinated at every lamp post. After 10 or so rounds, she would just sniff at the places she urinated and the constant need to urinate was gone.
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Rating:
The new top dog
When looking to get a dog, I had my heart set on a German Shepherd- I had experience with them, and loved every part of those dogs. But the health problems and inbreeding in the US had me concerned. That's when someone suggested a Mal. I'm hooked. The malinois has all the things I loved about the GSD and none of the problems. They are very easy to train, incredibly smart, naturally protective, very social. Energetic. They are so great that they are replacing the GSD in many police departments, as well as the military and government agencies. Best dog in the entire world.
Pros: Great size- easy for travel (even for short trips in a little car). Have the heart, drive and personality of a much bigger dog, just eats less. Minimal shedding.
Cons: Can't think of any