Belgian Malinois Dog Breed Information:
Canines of the Belgian Malinois dog breed were originally bred to be herding dogs. Today, they also work as police and military dogs, protection dogs, and loving family members. Even though these are purebred dogs, you may find them at breed specific rescues and shelters.
Belgian Malinois Dog Group: Herding Dogs.
Belgian Malinois Height: 22 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder.
Belgian Malinois Weight: 40 to 80 pounds.
Belgian Malinois Life Span: 12 to 14 years.
More About This Dog Breed:
Belgian Malinois have a great deal of energy and need a lot of exercise. Make sure you have the room and time to provide it. Malinois are constant shedders. They shed heavily twice a year. Malinois are very intelligent and alert. They also have strong herding and protection instincts. Early, consistent training is critical.
Belgian Malinois History:
The Belgian Malinois is one of four varieties of Belgian Sheepdogs, which were developed in Belgium in the late 1800s. The four varieties are the Malinois (fawn-mahogany, short coat with black mask), the Tervuren (fawn-mahogany, long coat with black mask), the Laekenois (fawn, rough coat), and the Groenendael (black, long coat). In 1892, Professor Reul wrote the first Belgian Shepherd Dog standard, which recognized three varieties: dogs with long coats, dogs with short coats, and dogs with rough coats. The Club du Chien de Berger Belge asked the Societe Royale Saint-Hubert (Belgium's equivalent to the AKC) for breed status, but was denied. By 1901, however, the Belgian Shepherd Dog was finally recognized as a breed.
Belgian Malinois Size:
Males are 24 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 60 to 80 pounds. Females are 22 to 24 inches tall and weigh 40 to 60 pounds.
Belgian Malinois Personality:
This is an outstanding working dog who is confident and protective in any situation. They're affectionate with family members but reserved toward strangers until they take their measure. The watchdog abilities of the Malinoisare excellent. They protect their people and property with only as much force as is required. Shyness and aggression are never appropriate in this breed.
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Belgian Malinois Health:
Belgian Malinois are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they're prone to certain health conditions. Not all Malinois will get any or all of these diseases:
Hip Dysplasia.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy.
Elbow Dysplasia.
Anesthesia Sensitivity.
Belgian Malinois Care:
Belgian Malinois can do well in small quarters if they receive enough exercise. They prefer cool climates but adapt well to warmer environments. They should always be included as part of the family and live indoors. Puppies have different exercise needs. From nine weeks to four months of age, puppy kindergarten once or twice a week is a great way for them to get exercise, training, and socialization, plus 15 to 20 minutes of playtime in the yard, morning and evening. Throw a ball for them to fetch.
Belgian Malinois Feeding:
Recommended daily amount: 2 to 3 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Belgian Malinois Coat Color And Grooming:
Malinois have short, straight hair that feels hard to the touch. The hard topcoat and dense undercoat provide weather resistance for a dog who was bred to work outdoors in all conditions. The hair is slightly longer around the neck, forming a sort of mini-mane. The coat is typically fawn- to mahogany-colored with a black mask on the face, black ears, and black tips on the hairs. Fawn-colored Malinois sometimes have a tiny bit of white on the tips of their toes or a small white spot on the chest. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge.
Belgian Malinois with Children And Other Pets:
Well-socialized Malinois are good with children, especially if they are raised with them, but because of their herding heritage they may have a tendency to nip at their heels and try to herd them when playing. You must teach your Malinois that this behavior is unacceptable. An adult Malinois who's unfamiliar with children may do best in a home with children who are mature enough to interact with them properly. Malinois can be aggressive toward other dogs and cats unless they're brought up with them from puppyhood.