BELGIAN MALINOIS

Temperament: Stubborn, Friendly, Confident
Height: 22 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder
Weight: 40 to 80 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years

MORE ABOUT THIS BREED

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.

The Belgian Malinois (pronounced MAL-in-wah) is a medium-size Belgian shepherd dog that at first glance resembles a German Shepherd Dog. Malinois are shorthaired, fawn-colored dogs with a black mask. They are one of four types of Belgian herding dogs, and have been shown in the U.S. as a separate breed since 1959.

If you have decided that the Malinois is the breed for you, you should expose yours to many different people, dogs, other animals and situations as early as possible. Puppy kindergarten classes are recommended for your Malinois puppy, followed by obedience training class.

This breed is not likely to suit a first-time dog owner. But with firm, consistent training and plenty of physical and mental activity, these pups will be loving and loyal for life.

PERSONALITY

The Belgian Malinois excels not only in herding, but also in protection and law enforcement; drug, bomb, and gas detection; search and rescue; tracking; obedience; sledding; agility; and therapy assistance to disabled, ill or elderly people. This dog is demanding and needs an experienced owner. A wide range is seen in temperament and aggressiveness. They want nothing more than to be with their family, which makes them unsuitable as a kennel dog.

FEEDING

Recommended daily amount: 2 to 3 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on their size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. 

HEALTH

Health problems that have been seen in the Belgian Malinois include hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, pannus, and epilepsy.

You can check CHIC’s website to see if a breeder’s dogs have these certifications.

Do not purchase a puppy from a breeder who cannot provide you with written documentation that the parents were cleared of health problems that affect the breed

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.

If possible, provide your Malinois with some off-leash exercise in a fenced area in addition to long walks or jogging. Malinois need about 20 minutes of activity three or four times a day, and a leisurely walk won’t satisfy them. 

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.

From four to six months of age, weekly obedience classes, daily half-mile walks, and playtime in the yard will meet their needs. From six months to a year of age, play fetch with a ball or Frisbee for up to 40 minutes during cool mornings or evenings, not in the heat of the day. Continue to limit walks to a half mile.

After they’re a year old, your Malinois pup can begin to jog with you, but keep the distance to less than a mile and give them frequent breaks along the way.

GROOMING

The Malinois has a short, straight coat that sheds heavily. The coat is heavier around the neck, on the tail, and near the back of the thighs. Brush it at least weekly to remove dead hair and distribute skin oils. Brush a little more often to help keep loose hair from landing on your floor, furniture, and clothing. Bathe him only as needed.

The rest is basic care. Trim the nails as needed, usually every few weeks. Brush the teeth frequently for high overall health and fresh breath.

Source: dogtime, hillspet, vetstreet.