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.*
They are known for their bravery and loyalty, however, a poorly socialized or imbalanced Malinois may be timid and very fearful of new experiences while still fronting a protective behavior. They have an abundance of energy that can sometimes harm children, even adults. Malinois might only be friendly with the children in its own family or those it is most familiar with. They are weary of strangers. Proper socialization is a must.
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.*
Some lines of this breed may suffer from eye problems.
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
I have a 2 years old male japanese spitz, 4 years old female japanese spitz, and a 2.5 months shih-tzu. I plan to have a Belgian malinois and i will treat and love her or him like a family. Is it ok if i will have a belgian malinois, of course i will buy a 2 months old belgian. Is it safe? Does it attack his master like me.
The only issue I can see you having is that the Belgian Malinois likes to assert themselves into the family hierarchy. Assert yourself as the alpha and you shouldn't have a problem. Remember they are a high drive breed that needs exercise, love to play, and need affection as well. The breed has a tendancy to try and be domineering towards other dogs, so that could propose a problem for you.
hi, Im planing to have a belgian malinois as one of my guard dogs but I've heard lots of comments from other people who have already raised this dog, they said that this dog are really dangerous towards people, and base on my experience I have a neighbor having 4 months old belgian malinois the moment he applied force force on his dog, it tend to bite him and did really bite him.. is this dog really dangerous?I really like to have one, what should I do inorder to make this dog a good cetizen
This dog is not aggressive towards his family members if treated right. They are very loyal to their family, and instinctually protective of their family and "property". I have a Belgian Malinois that is a big baby, he can play a little rough at times, but just remember when training this breed it takes a firm yet soft hand for the best results.
Please help me! My neighbor has a Belgiun Malanois who had 7 puppies on 12/08/2008. My neighbor, Kim has MS and the dog (Molly) is her Help dog. Kim had a relapse and is in the hospital and will be for another several weeks. Molly is not letting the puppies nurse and her teats are very red and swollen..and one of the nipples is partially torn off. I think that the dog must have some separation anxiety from Kim being gone. Her stools are very loose also. HELP! Can I give the puppies something else to eat to supplement? And how do I comfort the mother dog, Molly. I am just a neighbor trying to help until she gets home from the hospital. I am overwhelmed because I don't know what to do.
Mal's bond very strongly to one or two individuals. I know this is probably not what you want to hear, but it IS separation anxiety and depression. The only cure is for Molly the dog to see her owner. Most hospitals are happy to let patients see pets- it helps people with the recovery process as wel..
We just adopted a 9 week old pup. We were told he was a German Sheppard but we were unsure and did some research, it turns out he has the makings of a Malanois. The only difference; the ears. The pup's ears flop over and don't appear as pointy as the other Malanois. Will the ears stiffen up and strighten out as he gets older?
We adopted a Belgian whose ears flopped over and our vet recommended some cottage cheese added to his food. His ears stand straight up now!
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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