A Belgian Malinois takes a dip in a pond.

Belgian Malinois

Height

22 - 26"

Weight

60 - 65 lbs

Type

Herding

Life Expectancy

12 - 14 years

Area of Origin

Belgium

The Belgian Malinois is an incredibly hardworking and intelligent dog in need of an experienced owner. This breed is excellent at tracking, bomb and narcotics detection, and search and rescue. Though they make great family dogs, they do best as the sole pet in a household.

Energy Level

Playfulness

Friendliness to dogs

Friendliness to strangers

exercise requirements

affection level

friendliness to other pets

watchfulness

Grooming Requirements

Vocality

Where Are Belgian Malinois From?

The Belgian Malinois is one of four varieties of Belgian Sheepdog: the Malinois, the Groenendael, the Tervuren, and the Laekenois. They are all very similar in body conformation, with the biggest distinction between them being coat color and type.

The Malinois originated near the town of Malines several centuries ago, though the exact year is unknown. By the late 19th century, the Mal had taken on an active role as a herding dog, which would inspire a long career as police and border control workers later in history.

The United States began importing Mals in 1911, where they remained popular until after WWII. They saw a resurgence in 1963, and by 1965, they had been recognized by the AKC in the working class.

In the 21st Century, Mals are distinguished members of the police, military, and service sectors. Their inexhaustible energy and instinct to protect make them perfect for these duties. Domesticated Malinois enjoy agility, schutzhund, tracking, and obedience training.

Caring for a Belgian Malinois

What Kind of Diet Does a Belgian Malinois Need?

The high energy-level of the Malinois demands a high-quality dog food. They are prone to gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV or bloat), so it may be helpful to feed smaller portions and avoid strenuous activity after mealtime.

How Much Grooming Does a Belgian Malinois Need?

Mals’ short coats do not require much grooming beyond brushing a few times a week and regular bathing.

Are Belgian Malinois Healthy Dogs?

Malinois are typically healthy, with an average lifespan of 12 – 14 years. They should be evaluated for hip and elbow dysplasia and ocular conditions.

Malinois are predisposed to: gastric dilatation volvulus, hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and hemangiosarcoma.

Do Belgian Malinois Need to Be Trained?

Since they are a dominant breed, Malinois require an experienced owner/ handler. They need more than just puppy classes and, ideally, they should be taken through advanced training. Keep in mind that these are herding dogs; they may try to herd and chase children, animals, or other moving objects.

How Much Exercise Does a Belgian Malinois Need?

Mals need to expend energy daily. They must be given activities to stimulate both mind and body. Running, hiking, or being trained in agility, tracking, or obedience are excellent ways to keep your Mal happy. If not provided with such outlets, they may become destructive.

Style

Centered

Are You Ready to Adopt a Belgian Malinois?

To adopt a Belgian Malinois, start by making sure a dog of this size and demeanor will fit your lifestyle. Use our pet adoption checklist to walk through each step in the adoption process. Complete the necessary adoption applications and be prepared for interviews or home visits. Spend time with potential dogs to find a good match. Finally, prepare your home for the new pet, ensuring it's safe and welcoming.

Pet Insurance Options for Belgian Malinois

Pet insurance for a Belgian Malinois may help cover costs for conditions like elbow dysplasia and bloat. Consider a policy that includes hereditary and congenital conditions, flexible coverage options, and reasonable premiums.

Use our insurance aggregator tool to compare providers and find the best plan for your dog's unique needs.

What Are the Physical Characteristics of a Belgian Malinois Dog?

What Does a Belgian Malinois Look Like?

Malinois have an elegant, leanly-muscled frame. Their average height is 24 – 26″ at the shoulder for males and 22 – 24″ for females. They generally weigh 60 – 65 pounds.

What Color Eyes Do Belgian Malinois Dogs Have?

Belgian Malinois’ eyes are medium-sized, brown, and black rimmed, with an alert, attentive expression.The Malinois’ head is strong without being bulky.

Are Belgian Malinois Dogs Strong?

The body of the Malinois is narrow, deep, and strong, but with finer bones than other shepherd dogs. Their chests curve gracefully into the abdomen when viewed from the side.

Do Belgian Malinois have Curly Tails?

The Belgian Malinois tail may curl, but it usually shoots straight up when the dog is excited.

Belgian Malinois Front Legs

Like the body, the forequarters are strong and lean. Feet are round with one dewclaw, which may be removed.

What Type of Coat Does a Belgian Malinois Have?

The Malinois’ coat ranges from fawn to mahogany in color, with a black mask and ears. Their fur is short, with a dense undercoat, though it is slightly longer around the neck, the back of the thighs, and tail.

Belgian Malinois Back Legs

The hind legs are proportionate to the rest of the body, and parallel to each other. The thighs are well muscled. Hind feet may be longer than the front feet, with a single dewclaw that is typically removed.

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