Breed group: Herding

Weight: 60-65 lbs

Height: male: 24-26 inches, female 22-24 inches

Overview

The Belgian Malinois dog has its origin in Belgium where it was bred during the 1900s. These dogs dog were bred to be intelligent and devoted dogs, especially in the city of Malines as they were favourites there and in Belgium.

Temperament

The Belgian Malinois is one of the four different Belgian Sheepdogs. This breed is exceptionally smart and obedient. They have a serious demeanour with very strong protective and defensive instincts. However, some of these dogs can be very timid and sensitive. This is a dog that should be socialised from an early age onwards. The Belgian Malinois makes an excellent pet that is loyal and thrives on companionship. This is a dog that will get along well with children if socialised well with them. The Belgian Malinois will not do well if locked up in a kennel, and they need to be included in family activities. These dogs require lots of time, attention, guidance and company. They might become destructive when left alone for too long. The Belgian Malinois is a very energetic dog, and loves to have a job to do. These dogs also have a tendency to bond closely with one person in the family. Belgian Sheepdogs may also intuitively exhibit herding behaviour such as chasing while moving without effort for hours and nipping at other people's heels.

Training

This breed should be socialised well from a very early age onwards as they are instinctively very protective. The Belgian Malinois is a very demanding dog and will require an experienced owner. It is also important that the training of these dogs is not cruel or overbearing, as this will lead to them becoming stubborn. These dogs excel in working and competition obedience, and they make wonderful guard and police dogs. At this stage this type of work is their main occupation.

Care

The Belgian Malinois has a smooth, short-haired coat, and it does not have high grooming needs. Their coats can be brushed on a regular basis with a firm hair brush. They should also only be bathed when really necessary as excessive bathing can remove the waterproofing from their coats. This breed is a light shedding dogs, but they do shed constantly and heavily twice during the year.

Health problems

This breed is very tough and does not have any major health concerns. Some concerns that prospective owners should be aware of though includes skin allergies and eye problems. Occasionally they also suffer from hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia.