Considering getting a Belgian Malinois? Makes sure you know the characteristics of the breed. We've put together the following Belgian Malinois breed information and facts to create a profile of this dog so you have the critical information necessary to make a decision.
Belgian Malinois
The Belgian Malinois is a natural watch dog with a life expectancy of 14 to 16 years.
Origin
The Belgian Malinois is one of four varieties of the Belgian Shepherd. The Belgian Malinois was developed in the late 1890s in the city of Malines by a group of Belgian Shepherd owners. The group’s goal was to selectively breed the Belgian Shepherd and create a steadfast working dog.
Size
The Belgian Malinois weighs 40 to 80 pounds and measures 22 to 26 inches.
Grooming Needs
The Belgian Malinois has a short, smooth double coat that sheds heavily, especially in the spring and fall. However, the Belgian Malinois has very few grooming needs. The Belgian Malinois only needs to be brushed once a week and bathed when necessary. Like all dogs, the Belgian Malinois also needs basic grooming. Brush their teeth, clean their ears and trim their nails on a regular basis.
Character
The Belgian Malinois is devoted and obedient. The breed is highly trainable and a strong protector.
Temperament
The Belgian Malinois is the official dog of the United States Secret Service and is often used in police and military work. As expected, the Belgian Malinois is alert and naturally protective. This breed is confident, courageous and vigilant. The Belgian Malinois makes an excellent guard dog, but needs training and socialization to properly develop their instincts.
The Belgian Malinois is not the typical family dog, but nonetheless makes a great one. The Belgian Malinois is affectionate and playful with their family and grows quite attached to them. They can get along well with children and other pets if they are raised with them and socialized at an early age.
Training Needs
The Belgian Malinois thrives on having a job to do and when given a job, takes it quite seriously. They are intelligent, athletic and responsive, and therefore well suited for activities like search and rescue, Schutzhund, agility, tracking, herding, obedience and even sledding.
As part of their training, the Belgian Malinois needs early socialization to help them manage their protective instincts. They need interaction with lots of people to understand the difference between a welcome and unwelcome visitor.
Activity Level
The Belgian Malinois is a high energy dog that likes to work hard and play hard. The Belgian Malinois enjoys spending time outdoors and needs a secure yard to run around in. The Belgian Malinois also needs a long daily walk and can make a great partner for jogging or hiking.
