BELGIAN MALINOIS

Group: Herding
Size: Large
Temperament: Confident, Smart and Diligent
Height: 24-26 inches (male), 22-24 inches (female)
Weight: 27-36 Kg (male), 18-30 Kg (female)
Life Expectancy: Over 10 years
Origin: Belgium
Coat Length: Short
Coat Type: Smooth
Color: Fawn Mahogany Red Red Sable Fawn Sable

About

The Belgian Malinois has a very regal appearance and is thought to have its roots in Malines, Belgium.It is a natural guard dog like the other breeds in its group. The Belgian Malinois socializes well and makes a devoted companion, despite the possibility that its behavior may be unpredictable. Their ability to master obedience routines is unrivaled, and they are admired for their strong work ethic and intelligence.

Good with young kids
Good with other dogs
Apartment friendly

Nutrition

Malinois require a protein-rich, well-balanced diet. Don't sacrifice quality of the protein, as the amino acids found in it serve as the foundation for the Malinois's strong, sinewy muscles. Feed them enough fat to keep their skin healthy and their coat shiny. Vitamins and minerals are essential for their immunity and the health of its coat and skin. Clean and fresh water must be available at all times for all breeds.

Ideal Meal Breakdown
Protein
30
Fat
18
Carbohydrates
44
Others
8

Exercise

The Malinois needs to be actively engaged with his owner, both mentally and physically. He is incredibly intelligent, athletic, and devoted. This dog cannot be left in the backyard, and regular walks will not suffice. The key to the breed's happiness is exercise—lots of it—preferably alongside his owner. A Malinois's need for activity and human company is equivalent to robbing him of his very existence. Aside from dominating agility, tracking, herding, obedience, and Schutzhund (protection) competitions, Malinois make excellent running, hiking, and biking partners.

Playfulness Level
Stranger-friendliness
Energy Level
Mental stimulation needs

Grooming

The Malinois's short, waterproof coat is very simple to maintain. The dog will always look his best with occasional brushing with a medium-bristle brush, which also encourages new hair growth and evenly distributes skin oils throughout the coat. Malinois do shed twice a year, and the best way to prevent this is to give your dog a daily once-over with a slicker brush. As with all breeds, the nails should be cut regularly because excessively long nails can hurt the dog and make it difficult for it to run and walk.

Shedding Level
Coat Grooming Frequency
Drooling Level

Training

Belgian Malinois respond well to positive reinforcement training because they are extremely loyal and eager learners.Malinois have a high prey drive and a keen interest in moving objects, like the majority of herding breeds. This behaviour should be controlled through training as it can result in chasing people, objects, or other animals. Training in obedience and early socialisation are essential.

Trainability Level
Barking Level
Watchdog/Protective nature

Health

The Malinois is typically a healthy breed, and a good breeder will check breeding stock for ailments like hip and elbow dysplasia and particular eye issues. As with all breeds, the teeth should be brushed frequently, and the ears should be checked frequently for indications of infection.

Health
Intelligence
Adoptability Level

History

One of four breeds of Belgian Sheepdogs that were created in Belgium in the late 1800s is the Belgian Malinois. The Malinois, Tervuren, Laekenois, and Groenendael are the four varieties. In their home country, Mals are known for being the best at managing livestock. They were initially bred by serious dog enthusiasts who rejected passing pet owner fads and fancies in favour of breeding dogs with exemplary working character. The Mal became the preferred dog for Belgian sheepherders and cattlemen due to this emphasis on performance. Although they are still highly valued as herders of all kinds of stock, their adaptability and strong work ethic have opened doors for careers in many other professions and pursuits. As police and military K-9s, they are in high demand. They have performed their duties with such distinction that a life-size bronze sculpture of a Belgian Malinois is displayed at the military dogs memorial in Fayetteville, North Carolina.