Belgian Malinois Puppies

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The Obedience and Protective Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois, often called the Belgian Shepherd, is a medium to large-sized herding dog that originated in Belgium. These dogs are known for their intelligence, obedience, and protective nature.


Belgian Malinois At a Glance

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Belgian Malinois At a Glance

  • Size: 22"-26", 40-80 lbs.
  • Lifespan: 14-16 years
  • Energy Level: high
  • Coat: Short and waterproof
  • Shedding: heavy
  • Hypoallergenic: No
  • Dog Group: Herding
  • Common Nicknames: Belgian Shepherd Malinois, Mechelse Shepherd

Belgian Malinois Breed Guide

Learn More About Belgian Malinoiss

  • Temperament

    The Belgian Malinois is an energetic breed that needs a lot of physical and mental stimulation, often more than just a daily walk. That said, they are not recommended for people who live a sedentary lifestyle. These dogs are usually weary of dogs and other animals they do not know, so they should be introduced carefully. Because of its history as a guard dog, the Belgian Malinois is very protective of its family and property, and is naturally reserved toward strangers. However, with proper socialization, this breed has the potential to be friendly and affectionate with people outside it's family. Training a Belgian Malinois isn't difficult because of how obedient and intelligent they are, so they're not a bad choice for first-time dog owners.

  • Health

    The Belgian Malinois is a very sturdy breed, and reputable breeders will screen them for hip and elbow dysplasia, and eye conditions.

  • Activity Level

    The Belgian Malinois is an energetic breed that needs a lot of physical and mental stimulation, often more than just a daily walk. They are best suited for those who live an active lifestyle. Belgian Malinois love to be kept busy, and they thrive when given a job to do.

  • Grooming

    They should be brushed weekly to remove dead hair and to distribute skin oils throughout their coat. They should only be bathed when they get especially dirty, because bathing can remove the waterproof quality of their coat. Their nails should be trimmed every few weeks, and their teeth should be brushed regularly.

  • Shedding

    They are constant shedders, and they shed heavily twice a year.

  • Appearance

    At a glance, the Belgian Malinois looks very similar to the German Shepherd, but the two breeds differ greatly in terms of body structure. Belgian Malinois have a square body profile with a chiseled head. Their coats are primarily fawn, red, or brown in color with some black at the tips. Malinois are considered heavy shedders and should be brushed daily.

  • History

    The Belgian Malinois is one of four different breeds of Belgian sheepdogs, all of which were used as herding and guard dogs in Belgium during the 1800s. Specifically, the Belgian Malinois was the short-haired variety of these sheepdogs and got its name from the region in which it was developed, Malines. The breed didn't make its way to the United States until the early 1900s. Before World War II, the Malinois was very popular, but breeding declined significantly after the war. It wasn't until 1959 that people began to register the Belgian Malinois again. Today, the Malinois has increased in popularity due to its reputation as an excellent police dog, and even surpasses the German Shepherd in demand.