Belgian Malinois Breed Characteristics
Height
55 to 66 cm at the shoulder
Weight
40 to 80 pounds
Life Expectancy
12 to 14 years
Coat Colours
Fawn, mahogany
Belgian Malinois
Hardworking, intelligent and fearless
About the Belgian Malinois
‘Intense’ is one way to describe the Belgian Malinois. These all-purpose working dogs are used as military and police dogs due to their extreme work ethic and athleticism. But they also have a place as loving and loyal family pets.
Belgian Malinois are high-energy, high-performance dogs who are game for any adventure their owner can come up with – they thrive when they’re constantly being challenged and given jobs to do.
At work, these dogs are calm and composed, and are neither shy nor aggressive. While they may be wary of strangers and reserved when meeting new people, they’re affectionate and gentle with their owners and family members.
Here are some of the qualities you can expect from the Belgian Malinois, rated from one to five stars. However, all dogs are individuals, and your dog may not display exactly the same characteristics.
Family Life
5/5
Friendly with Kids
4/5
Friendly with Dogs
2/5
Ease of Grooming
5/5
Exercise Needs
5/5
Prey Drive
4/5
Tendency to Bark or Howl
2/5
Good for Novice Owners
3/5
Apartment Living
1/5
Belgian Malinois Breed History
The Belgian Malinois takes its name from the Belgian city of Malines. It was here that the Belgian Malinois was developed as a herding dog in the late 19th century.
The Malinois is related to the other shepherding dogs of Belgium: the Tervuren, Laekenois and Belgian Shepherd (or Groenendael). It was common practice to refer to all these dogs by the name Belgian Sheepdog.
Breeders in the city of Malines wanted to promote their own fawn short-haired Belgian Shepherd dogs. However, the dwindling number of actual sheep in Belgium posed a problem. Louis Huyghebaert, now known as ‘the Godfather of the Malinois’, suggested that breeders hold field trials to display their dogs’ loyalty and aptitude for herding.
The first of these trials was won, of course, by a Belgian Malinois named Cora van’t Optewel in the early 20th century. Ever since then, this breed has been considered one of the finest all-purpose working dogs in existence.
Caring For a Belgian Malinois
- Temperament: Belgian Malinois can be somewhat aloof when meeting new people. They are gentle and affectionate with family and friends, but it can take a while to earn their trust.
- Grooming: Most Belgian Malinois require little in the way of grooming – a weekly brushing will help keep their shedding under control.
- Exercise: The Belgian Malinois has boundless energy and needs vigorous outdoor exercise to stay healthy and happy. A couple of 45-minute walks or runs will be a good start for most Belgian Malinois.
- Nutrition: An adult Belgian Malinois will need three to four cups of dry dog food each day, while a Belgian Malinois puppy will need around two cups of food. Consult with your vet for your dog’s specific needs.
- Training: Belgian Malinois are intelligent and hardworking dogs, and are very trainable with the right approach. Positive reinforcement will give your Belgian Malinois the motivation to focus during training sessions.
How to Choose a Responsible Belgian Malinois Breeder
With working breeds like the Belgian Malinois, it’s always best to look for a responsible breeder who knows how to get the most out of their breeding animals. Supporting ethical breeders will also help ensure that the health of the breed is always emphasised, and that future dogs will have desirable qualities and a sound temperament.
When looking for a Belgian Malinois puppy, ask your breeder whether they are part of a breeding organisation that has standards for the care of the animals. Also ask about any health issues and genetic problems their dogs may have, as responsible breeders will conduct health checks for their breeding animals.
Belgian Malinois FAQ
Do Belgian Malinois make good service dogs?
Yes, these dogs are smart and loyal, making them excellent service animals for almost any owner.
Are Belgian Malinois aggressive?
No, they are not naturally aggressive. However, since they’re a herding breed, they may chase after children or other dogs, which can be interpreted as hostile behaviour. Sufficient training and socialisation can help curb this behaviour.
Dog Breeds Similar to the Belgian Malinois
The information is for general use only. For any specific advice or queries, please consult with your veterinarian.
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