Name (s) alternative (s)
Chien de Berger Belge.
Mechelen.
Mechelse Herder (Mechelse Scheper)
Belgian Malinois.

Country of origin
Belgium

Weight
Males: 65-75 pounds. (29-34 kg.)
Females: 55-65 pounds. (25-29 kg.)

Height
Males: 61-66 cm. (24-26 inches)
Females: 56-61 cm. (22-24 inches)

History
It is one of the four breeds that took foothold in Belgium around the nineteenth century, their name is from the great city Malinois Belgian Shepherd and a descendant of the Persian and later the result of mastiff crosses between and the Deerhound. Although the United States had not recognized this breed until 1959, they are still somewhat rare in the United States because they thrive so well in their country of origin.

General features
The Belgian Malinois is a dog with great intelligence that can perform 12 different tasks. Their triangular ears and always standing upright, their tail is normal posture and hangs, but when alert it is completely normal for the tail to be raised.

Color
Mahogany, fawn, their face and ear are usually black.

Coat
The Belgian Malinois are equipped with two layers of coat, the exterior is waterproof, short and hard. On the other hand, the interior is quite dense. You can always notice a difference in the length of coat relative to the rest of their body including their tail and neck.

Temperament
This breed of dog is obedient, attentive and devoted to their master, provided that their owners are not novices. This breed of dog develops a close tie with family members including children provided they have been properly socialized. This breed of dog can easily detect friend from foe, they are always on high alert and make a great family watch dog. Belgian Malinois can get along with other dogs that have grown alongside, may take advanced training to have them socialized with other household pets like cats and birds.

Care
Belgian Malinois can suffer from some illnesses during their lives like cancer, thyroid problems, hip and elbow dysplasia, epilepsy and sensibility to anesthesia. It is recommended that this breed of dog goes to general checkups with the vet. These dogs should be bathed and cleaned only when necessary. A light brush here and there to free them of tangles, but the breed is relatively clean.

Training
These breed of dogs are naturally possessed with a dominant personality, are demanding, yet intelligent. Socialization should begin as young as possible to avoid any aggression or behavior issues. Training should be done firmly, but not over powering the animal verbally or physically as them may not respond well to these training methods. Though this breed is not recommended for the novice, training can be accomplished if done with firmness, cleanliness, patience, consistency.

Activity
This breed of dog demands several hours of physical exercise and mental stimulation so you can fully recreate, so they are really not recommend for apartment life (that is of course if you live an active lifestyle and can provide the exercise), These dogs were bred for vigorous and specialized work, so keeping them mentally and physically fit is important.

Lifespan
13-14 years.