Description

The Belgian Malinois is also known as Malinois or Chien de berger Belge. The Belgian Malinois a very intelligent, lively breed who excels in an active family environment. Belgian Malinois are identical to the Belgian Sheepdog and the Belgian Tervueren except that its coat is short and mahogany in colour. The Belgian Malinois is a no-nonsense dog who must be taken seriously by his owner. It is recommended an owner be an experienced dog person.

Size of Male: Height: 24-26 inches Weight: 60-80 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 22-24 inches Weight: 60-75 pounds

Temperament

The Belgian Malinois is a very smart and obedient dog. Belgian Malinois are serious and watchful with strong protective and territorial instincts. Some Belgian Malinois are very shy or sensitive. This breed needs extensive socialization from an early age, and firm, but not harsh, training from an experienced master. If you are too harsh or overbearing they will become uncooperative. It is instinctively protective so it should be trained and socialized very well from an early age. Breeders should socialize puppies right from birth. Good for working and competition obedience. These dogs make excellent police and guard dogs. This type of work is currently their main occupation. They do however, make excellent pets. They are ever-watchful, alert and loyal, and they thrive on loving companionship. Belgian Sheepdogs are good with children if socialized well with them. The Belgian Malinois needs to be part of the family and not locked up in a kennel. It does best when given ample time, attention, training and companionship. If this breed is ignored, it will find ways to entertain itself, often at the owner’s expense. The Belgian Malinois has a lot of energy and needs a job to do. Working lines can have particularly high drive. Belgian Sheepdogs tend to bond strongly with one or two people. Take care when introducing this dog with small non-canine pets. The Belgian Malinois generally gets along well with children, but they can be rather dominant toward other dogs. Provided they are correctly socialized with cats and other pets, they should not present any problems. Belgian Sheepdogs may instinctively display herding behavior such as chasing and circling, moving effortlessly for hours and nipping at people’s heels. Belgian Malinois are good for working and competitive obedience. This is a very demanding dog. It needs an experienced owner and can easily be difficult to control unless the owner knows how to handle him.

Living Conditions

The Belgian Malinois will do ok in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. Belgian Malinois are moderately active indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard. Belgian Malinois prefer cool climates, but adapts well to others. It can live outdoors but would rather be with his family.

Upkeep

The Belgian Malinois is a high-energy dog that needs a lot of exercise. Belgian Malinois’s needs cannot be met with a leisurely walk on leash. Belgian Malinois instead needs a good jog or a vigorous play session. It especially enjoys herding. This breed can live outside in temperate to cool weather, but it would prefer to divide its time between house and yard.It Is good if you own a farm or life stock which your Belgian Malinois can herd as it can allow for mental and physical exercise at the same time. Its coat needs weekly brushing, more when shedding.

Health

Major concerns: Hemangiosarcoma, Epilepsy, Thyroid diseases

Minor concerns: Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, skin allergies, Progressive retinal atrophy

Life expectancy: 10 – 14 years