Is a Belgian Malinois Right for a First-Time Owner?

Discover the Belgian Malinois, a breed celebrated for its alert, trainable, and protective nature. Recognized as a medium dog, Belgian Malinois have their origins in Belgium, where they were initially bred for herding, police, and military work starting in the late 19th century.

In this post, we share insights from nearly 10,000 Sniffspot users, offering practical advice for new and prospective Belgian Malinois owners. Whether you’re considering adopting or rescuing a Belgian Malinois or already have one, you’ll find valuable tips on how to care for and enjoy life with an alert Belgian Malinois.

Thinking about a Belgian Malinois? As Sniffspot user SB says, “They’re incredibly intelligent and versatile. I love their loyalty, eagerness to work, and the endless possibilities.” But are Belgian Malinois good for first time owners? Their energy and intelligence require a dedicated owner. We'll explore everything you need to know about the breed – from temperament and training to grooming and health – drawing on insights from nearly 10,000 Sniffspot users.

Source: Sniffspot Community Breed Survey 2024

Belgian Malinois: At a Glance

• Breed Type: Herding
• Size: Medium
• Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years
• Healthy Weight Range: 40 – 80 lbs.
• Height Range: 22 to 26 inches tall
• Temperament: Alert, Trainable, Protective
• Coat Type: Short
• Color: Fawn, red, and sable with black or tan markings (typically has a black mask)

Getting to Know the Belgian Malinois

According to nearly 10,000 Sniffspot community users who shared real-world data about their Belgian Malinois, these dogs are alert and friendly. The Belgian Malinois is known to be very social with children and neutral with other pets.

When living with a Malinois, 84% of our owners indicated that a large house with a fenced yard is ideal. Additionally, 44% found that a rural or suburban area with open spaces is also acceptable. This dog is highly trainable by all types of dog owners, and owners say that the Belgian Malinois learns best with positive reinforcement, training aids, mental stimulation, and consistent routines.

In terms of exercise, 63% of Sniffspot owners say their Belgian Malinois benefits from high exercise every day, including over 2 hours of activity a day, such as walks, runs, and play sessions. The Sniffspot Malinois community would not recommend this breed for first-time owners.

Key Takeaways

• Active lifestyles are a must: Belgian Malinois thrive on physical and mental activity. Plan for 2+ hours of exercise daily, including walks, runs, and engaging playtime. Explore activities like herding, agility, or scent work to keep them stimulated.
• Training is key for a happy Malinois: Start training and socialization early. Positive reinforcement and consistent routines are crucial for success. Training aids can be helpful, especially for managing their herding instincts.
• Experience matters with this breed: Malinois are not recommended for first-time dog owners. Their intelligence and energy require an experienced owner who can provide structure, training, and meet their demanding needs.

Origins of the Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois, developed in the late 19th century in Mechelen, Belgium, was bred for herding, guarding, and working on small farms. Known for their intelligence and strong bond with their owners, these dogs were vital for managing flocks and performing various tasks around the farm.

One of four Belgian shepherd breeds, the Malinois shares a similar build with the Belgian Sheepdog, Tervuren, and Laekenois but differs in coat and color. Initially recognized as Belgian Shepherds, they were split into separate breeds by the American Kennel Club in 1959, with the Malinois later moving to the Herding Group.

The Malinois has gained popularity in the U.S. for its athleticism and versatility, excelling in dog sports and professional roles. Its agility and intelligence make it a top choice for police, military, and search and rescue work, exemplified by its critical role in capturing Osama Bin Laden, as described in “No Ordinary Dog” by Cairo’s handler.

Belgian Malinois: Traits and Temperament

• Temperament: Alert, Trainable, Protective
• Energy Level: High
• Trainability: Highly trainable – Learns commands quickly and responds well to training.
• Coat Grooming Needs: Low maintenance – Requires minimal grooming, such as occasional brushing and baths.
• Good with Kids: Very friendly and social with children
• Good with Other Pets: Neutral, neither particularly friendly nor unfriendly

Understanding the Four Types of Malinois

While all Belgian Malinois share core breed characteristics, slight variations exist depending on their breeding purpose. Generally, Malinois fall into four main categories: Working, Show, Pet, and Mixed.

Working Malinois

Working Malinois are bred for, well, work! Think police and military work, search and rescue, and protection sports. These dogs possess incredible drive, high energy, and sharp intelligence. They thrive in challenging environments and need a "job" to do to stay happy and fulfilled. If you’re looking for a jogging buddy, this might not be the right fit. But if you’re an experienced dog owner looking for a partner in high-energy activities, a Working Malinois could be a great match. These dogs require experienced owners who can provide consistent training and plenty of physical and mental stimulation. A visit to a dog water park could be a fun way to burn off some energy!

Show Malinois

Show Malinois are bred with an emphasis on conformation to breed standards. They’re the ones strutting their stuff in the show ring. While still intelligent and trainable, their energy levels and drive might be slightly lower than Working Malinois. The focus on aesthetics in Show lines can sometimes lead to variations in temperament. It’s important to research reputable breeders who prioritize health and temperament alongside appearance. Even if you’re not into showing, a Show Malinois can make a wonderful companion, provided you meet their exercise and enrichment needs.

Pet Malinois

Pet Malinois are typically bred for companionship. They often have a more relaxed temperament compared to Working or Show lines, making them potentially better suited for family life. However, don’t let the “pet” label fool you—these dogs still need a good amount of exercise and mental stimulation. Think daily walks, playtime, and interactive games. Choosing the right name for your new furry friend is an important first step in the bonding process. Pet Malinois can be wonderful family dogs for active households committed to providing proper training and socialization.

Mixed Malinois

Mixed Malinois are crossbreeds combining the Belgian Malinois with other breeds. This mix can result in a wide range of temperaments and physical characteristics. For example, a Malinois-Golden Retriever mix might inherit the Malinois’ agility and the Retriever’s friendly nature. Mixed breeds can be a great option for families looking for a unique companion. However, it’s important to remember that mixed breeds can inherit traits from either parent breed, so research both breeds involved in the mix. Finding a qualified dog trainer can help you understand and manage your mixed Malinois’ unique needs. Visiting a private dog park through Sniffspot can provide a safe and controlled environment for socialization and play.

Owning a Belgian Malinois: What to Expect

Source: Sniffspot Community Breed Research 2024

Belgian Malinois Grooming Guide

Belgian Malinois require low-maintenance grooming. This means minimal grooming, like occasional brushing and baths. Their short coat is ideal for protection from the elements and is considered moderate to high shed. To keep your Malinois’s coat healthy, brush weekly to manage shedding and maintain the coat. Among herding breeds, Belgian Malinois grooming is categorized as relatively easy.

A great cold-weather breed, Belgians have a dense undercoat that help them adapt to cold weather. However, coat grooming can’t be an afterthought if your pet is consistently active outdoors.

Exercise Essentials for a Belgian Malinois

Belgian Malinois require a high level of activity each day to avoid destructive behaviors. They are a very athletic, high-energy breed and thrive with over 2 hours of activity a day, including walks, runs, and play sessions. They particularly enjoy tug-of-war, playing with a ball or frisbee, and obedience training. Without sufficient exercise, they may display undesirable behaviors. Consistent training, mental stimulation, and regular exercise are essential.

Meeting the Malinois's Need for Intense Activity

Belgian Malinois require a high level of activity each day to avoid destructive behaviors. They are a very athletic, high-energy breed and thrive with over two hours of activity a day, including walks, runs, and play sessions. According to our internal data, 63% of Sniffspot owners say their Belgian Malinois benefits from this much exercise daily. Without sufficient exercise, they may display undesirable behaviors such as excessive barking, chewing, or digging. Finding ways to keep your Malinois active and engaged is key to a happy, well-adjusted dog.

This breed's energy levels make them a great fit for active owners who enjoy spending time outdoors. Consider activities like hiking, running, biking (with your dog safely on a leash alongside you), or even dog sports like agility or flyball. Dog parks and other designated off-leash areas can also provide excellent opportunities for your Malinois to socialize and burn off energy, but always supervise your dog closely and be mindful of their interactions with other dogs. If you're looking for a safe and enriching environment for your Malinois to play and exercise, check out Sniffspot's listings of private dog parks.

Providing a "Job" for Your Malinois

Beyond physical exercise, Belgian Malinois also need consistent mental stimulation. Remember, these dogs were originally bred for herding and other demanding jobs, so they thrive when given tasks to perform. This "job" can take many forms, from learning new tricks and commands to participating in activities like scent work or herding trials. They particularly enjoy tug-of-war, playing with a ball or frisbee, and obedience training. Their intelligence makes them easy to train, from basic obedience to advanced commands. This mental engagement not only keeps them sharp but also strengthens the bond between you and your dog.

Consider incorporating puzzle toys, interactive games, and training sessions into your Malinois's daily routine. Even simple activities like hiding treats around the house or teaching them new commands can provide valuable mental enrichment. If you're looking for more structured activities, explore local dog training classes or clubs that offer activities like agility, obedience, or scent work. For training tips, check out our resources on top dog trainers. You might be surprised at how much your Malinois enjoys having a "job" to do, and you'll appreciate the positive impact it has on their behavior and overall well-being. A tired Malinois is a happy Malinois!

Feeding Your Belgian Malinois

As a high-energy breed, diet is crucial for your Malinois. A significant 66% of our community feeds their Malinois commercial dry kibble. For optimal health, they should consume 2 to 3 cups of vet-recommended food to maintain a healthy weight of 40 – 80 lbs. The exact amount and type of food will depend on your Malinois’s sex, activity level, and age.

Belgian Malinois Health: What to Watch For

The Belgian Malinois is prone to digestive issues like constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, and lack of appetite, as well as joint problems like arthritis, elbow dysplasia, and osteosarcoma. Our data shows that 33% of owners reported digestive issues and 30% reported joint problems. Additionally, 20% struggle with skin conditions such as allergies, yeast infections, and alopecia. Consult your veterinarian if you have concerns about these health issues.

Are Belgian Malinois Friendly?

Source: Sniffspot Community Breed Survey 2024

With consistent training, you can develop your Malinois’s herding instinct into a well-rounded family dog. Introducing positive reinforcement (treats, praise) and training aids (harnesses, leashes) early helps them avoid undesirable behaviors. Our community comments on their Malinois’s friendliness:

• Loyal, fiercely protective, energetic, drive for days (Jeanie)
• Intelligent and will work together with you – true teamwork (AS)
• Loyalty and desire to cuddle – super affectionate (Leslie)
• While these dogs are great additions to family households, they’re not for the average dog owner. Pet owners need to do additional training and desensitization exercise. (Anon)

Understanding Malinois Instincts: Herding and Guarding

Belgian Malinois are bred for work and possess a deep-seated need for both physical and mental stimulation. Without ample opportunities to exercise their minds and bodies, they can become bored, leading to destructive behaviors. Think daily walks, runs, engaging playtime, and even training sessions. A tired Malinois is a happy Malinois! Their herding instincts are strong. You might see this manifest in behaviors like nipping or chasing. This is perfectly normal, but it underscores the importance of training and socialization, especially from a young age. Early socialization helps them learn appropriate behaviors and how to interact positively with other dogs and people. Malinois are also known for their protective nature. They form strong bonds with their families and make excellent watchdogs, always alert and ready to safeguard their loved ones.

Finding ways to engage their minds is key to a well-behaved Malinois. Puzzle toys, snuffle mats, and even learning new tricks can keep them mentally stimulated and prevent boredom. If you're looking for safe, enriching places for your Malinois to run and play, check out Sniffspot's listings of private dog parks near you. These secure spaces offer a controlled environment for your dog to burn off energy and enjoy positive social interactions.

Potential for Reactivity in Malinois

Malinois are celebrated for their sharp focus and unwavering alertness. While these traits are highly valued, they can sometimes contribute to reactivity. This means they might react intensely to unfamiliar people, animals, or even unexpected noises. Early socialization plays a crucial role in helping them develop a well-rounded temperament. Exposing them to a variety of sights, sounds, and experiences from puppyhood can help prevent potential issues with strangers or other animals. Consider puppy classes, visits to Sniffspot dog parks, and planned interactions with new people and dogs in controlled environments.

Training is essential for managing any potential defensiveness. Positive reinforcement methods are particularly effective with this intelligent breed. Rewarding desired behaviors helps them understand what's expected and reinforces positive interactions. Consistency is key. Regular training sessions, even short ones, can make a significant difference in shaping their behavior. Despite their potential for reactivity, Malinois are known to be very social with children and generally neutral with other pets within their family unit. With proper training and socialization, they can thrive in a family environment. If you're looking for expert guidance on training, Sniffspot's list of top dog trainers is a valuable resource. These professionals can offer personalized advice and support to help you and your Malinois build a strong, positive relationship.

Training Your Belgian Malinois: Tips and Techniques

Whether you’re adopting a puppy or an adult Malinois, training is crucial. Without proper training, your Malinois may display undesirable behaviors. Providing stimulating activities is important, but it must be paired with the right training.

As a herding breed, Belgian Malinois benefit from praise and positive reinforcement. Here’s what our community recommends:

• Positive Reinforcement (92%): Treats, praise, and rewards for positive behavior
• Training Aids (70%): Martingale collars, walking harnesses, and no-pull attachments
• Consistent Routines (67%): A consistent training routine helps the dog understand expectations, including practices like desensitization exercises and regular exercise

Malinois are highly trainable and suited for various roles due to their intelligence and work ethic. Proper training helps avoid undesirable behaviors like destruction, reactivity, and so on. Additional training goes a long way with this smart breed.

Early Socialization: A Critical Need

Early socialization is vital for Belgian Malinois puppies. It helps them develop a well-rounded temperament and prevents potential issues with strangers or other animals. Exposing your Malinois to different sights, sounds, people, and dog parks from a young age sets the stage for a confident and adaptable adult dog. This is especially important for Malinois, given their protective instincts. Early socialization ensures they learn to differentiate between genuine threats and everyday occurrences.

The Sniffspot Community Breed Survey 2024 highlights that while these dogs make great additions to families, they’re not for every dog owner. Owners need to commit to additional training and desensitization exercises. This underscores the commitment required to raise a well-adjusted Malinois. Finding a qualified dog trainer experienced with the breed can be invaluable in guiding you through the socialization process and establishing a solid foundation for your dog's development. Remember, early socialization is an investment in your dog's future well-being and happiness.

Positive Reinforcement and Training Aids

Providing stimulating activities is important for a Belgian Malinois, but it must be paired with the right training approach. As a herding breed, Belgian Malinois thrive on praise and positive reinforcement. The Sniffspot Community Breed Research 2024 reveals that 92% of Malinois owners recommend using treats, praise, and rewards for positive behavior. This positive reinforcement approach not only motivates your Malinois but also strengthens your bond. It also makes training a more enjoyable experience for both of you.

In addition to positive reinforcement, training aids can be beneficial. The Sniffspot research indicates that 70% of Malinois owners use training aids like martingale collars and walking harnesses. These tools can assist with leash training and managing a Malinois's natural energy, especially during walks or visits to dog parks. A consistent training routine, combined with mental stimulation and regular exercise, helps your Malinois understand expectations and avoid undesirable behaviors.

Why Do People Love Belgian Malinois?

We asked Sniffspot Malinois owners what they love most about their Belgian Malinois pups, and here’s what they had to say:

• Protective and loyal beyond belief, sweet, affectionate, high energy, and fun. (Jessica)
• Smart, loyal, and very protective of their humans. (Lisa)
• Unique, challenging, and rewarding breed with love, loyalty, and fun. (Paige)

Challenges of Owning a Belgian Malinois

Malinois owners shared some of the biggest challenges:

• Not for the faint of heart. (LA)
• This dog is NOT for the average dog owner. Even experienced, assertive owners will struggle with this breed’s need for structure and activity. It’s true they can be affectionate family dogs and a great addition to family households, but this comes at a high cost. (Anon)
• HIGH energy and require a lot of training and exercise. (SB)
• Extremely high drive and need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. (Katherine)

Addressing Potential Destructive Behaviors

Belgian Malinois are known for their high energy levels and need for daily activity. As our Sniffspot community notes, “Belgian Malinois require a high level of activity each day to avoid destructive behaviors. They are a very athletic, high-energy breed and thrive with over two hours of activity a day, including walks, runs, and play sessions. Without sufficient exercise, they may display undesirable behaviors.” This highlights the necessity of providing ample physical and mental stimulation to keep your Malinois engaged and prevent boredom-related issues. A tired Malinois is a happy Malinois. Consider incorporating activities like herding exercises (even without livestock!), agility training, or scent work to challenge their minds and bodies. Finding a safe, enriching space for your Malinois to run and play is essential. Sniffspot offers a variety of dog parks and private spaces where your dog can enjoy off-leash freedom and burn off some energy.

Remember that destructive behaviors can also stem from anxiety or fear. If your Malinois is exhibiting destructive tendencies, consult with a certified professional dog trainer or a veterinary behaviorist. They can help you identify the root cause of the behavior and develop a tailored training plan. You can find top dog trainers near you on Sniffspot.

The Importance of Firm and Consistent Training

Training is crucial for the Belgian Malinois. They are highly trainable but also require structure. Our community emphasizes that “proper training helps avoid undesirable behaviors like destruction, reactivity, and so on.” Consistency in training routines is essential; “a consistent training routine helps the dog understand expectations, including practices like desensitization exercises and regular exercise.” This approach not only fosters a well-behaved dog but also strengthens the bond between you and your Malinois. Start training early, ideally when your Malinois is a puppy, to establish good habits from the beginning. Enroll in obedience classes or work with a professional trainer to learn effective training techniques and build a strong foundation.

Socialization is just as important as obedience training. Exposing your Malinois to a variety of people, places, and situations from a young age will help them develop into a well-adjusted and confident adult dog. Consider taking your Malinois to different Sniffspot locations to help them acclimate to new environments and interact with other dogs in a controlled setting. Firm and consistent training combined with positive reinforcement and early socialization are key to raising a happy, well-behaved Belgian Malinois.

More Reasons to Love a Belgian Malinois

We asked Sniffspot Malinois owners what they love the most about their Belgian Malinois pups, and here’s what they had to say:

• She’s protective and loyal beyond belief. She’s also sweet, affectionate, high energy, and fun. (Jessica)
• He’s challenging for sure, but he’s still an affectionate family dog. This is the ultimate companion animal, and it’s almost like he has an innate ability to understand me. (Reese)
• They’re smart, loyal, and very protective of their humans. (Lisa)
• They are the most unique and challenging breed we have ever owned. Constantly making sure they aren’t getting into trouble (counter surfing, eating dirt, chewing on a pillow), but it’s all worth it for the love, loyalty, and fun we have with Malinois. Definitely not a breed for people without working dog experience, as they require a lot of work, patience, and attention. We have rescued two, and they are our absolute favorite breed. (Paige)

Common Concerns of Belgian Malinois Owners

Similarly, Malinois owners shared some of the biggest challenges of living with their Belgian Malinois:

• Being in the wrong hands. These dogs are not for the faint of heart. (LA)
• Malinois are high-energy dogs that require a lot of training and exercise to ensure they are happy and healthy. (SB)
• They are extremely high-drive working dogs and require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. Their care requirements are super high! (Katherine)
• This dog has an innate ability to drive you crazy! Not easy additions to family households, that’s for sure. (Susannah)

Are Belgian Malinois Good for First-Time Owners?

Source: Sniffspot 2024 Community Dog Breed Survey

According to 97% of our Sniffspot community, Belgian Malinois are not a great choice for first-time dog owners. This is due to their alert nature and high exercise needs. This is a breed for an experienced owner. Belgian Malinois owners say it best:

• They are the most unique and challenging breed we have ever owned. Constantly making sure they aren’t getting into trouble (counter surfing, eating dirt, chewing on a pillow), but it’s all worth it for the love, loyalty, and fun we have with Malinois. Definitely not a breed for people without working dog experience, as they require a lot of work, patience, and attention. We have rescued two, and they are our absolute favorite breed. (Paige)
• Their desire to work all the time makes training fun because they’re always eager to get started. (Missing Name)
• She’s wonderful and affectionate to the people she lives with. She’s protective and loyal. But her care requirements are no joke! (Shannon)

Why Malinois Are Often Unsuitable for First-Time Owners

Belgian Malinois are intelligent and versatile, but they're not typically a good fit for first-time dog owners. According to a survey of nearly 10,000 Sniffspot community users, 97% of respondents indicated that Belgian Malinois aren't a great choice for first-time owners due to their alert nature and high exercise needs. This breed thrives under the guidance of experienced owners who can provide consistent structure, crate training, and ongoing training. New owners may find the breed's intensity and need for consistent engagement overwhelming.

One owner noted, “They are the most unique and challenging breed we have ever owned… Definitely not a breed for people without working dog experience, as they require a lot of work, patience, and attention.” This sentiment highlights the dedication and understanding required to successfully raise a thriving Malinois. Finding the right resources, such as experienced dog trainers, is essential for first-time Malinois owners.

Source: Sniffspot 2024 Community Dog Breed Survey

Malinois and Children: A Note of Caution

While Belgian Malinois can be friendly and social with children, their high energy and protective instincts require careful supervision and early socialization. Owners have shared that Malinois are high-energy dogs that need a lot of training and exercise to be happy and healthy. Finding safe and enriching spaces for them to play and socialize, like those listed on Sniffspot, can be incredibly beneficial. Dog water parks can be a particularly good outlet for their energy.

This breed's intense drive, often channeled into activities like herding, can sometimes lead to unintended nipping or herding behaviors if not properly managed, especially around children. As one owner cautioned, “Being in the wrong hands. These dogs are not for the faint of heart.” Therefore, while they can be affectionate family dogs, families need to be prepared for the commitment and unique challenges that come with owning a Malinois and ensure they have the time and resources for proper training and socialization.

Tips for Belgian Malinois Owners

Luckily, our Sniffspot community is full of experienced and trustworthy Malinois owners. These Belgian Malinois breed owners share the most essential tips and advice for prospective or new dog owners:

Finding the Right Resources and Support

Bringing a Belgian Malinois into your life is a big decision. Given their intelligence and high energy, they need an owner who can meet their specific needs. As we’ve learned from the Sniffspot community, Malinois owners overwhelmingly agree that this breed isn’t ideal for first-time dog owners (source). Their alert nature and need for consistent training requires an experienced hand. But don’t worry, even seasoned dog owners can benefit from extra support and a strong community.

Connecting with other Malinois owners is a game-changer. The Sniffspot community, for example, offers a wealth of knowledge and experience. Seasoned Malinois owners share essential tips and advice, creating a supportive network. From training techniques to exercise recommendations, you can find answers to your questions and gain valuable insights from others who understand the breed.

Training is the cornerstone of a happy and well-adjusted Malinois. These dogs thrive on positive reinforcement and consistent routines (source). Think treats, praise, and a predictable daily schedule. Training aids, like martingale collars or no-pull harnesses, can also be helpful, especially given their herding instincts. Proper training not only teaches commands but also helps prevent undesirable behaviors like reactivity or destruction. It sets your Malinois up for success in the long run.

And let's not forget exercise! A tired Malinois is a happy Malinois. With 63% of Sniffspot owners reporting their Malinois need over two hours of daily activity (source), you'll want to find stimulating activities. Sniffspot's dog parks offer a safe and enriching environment for your Malinois to run, play, and socialize. From a refreshing dip in a dog-friendly water park to an adventurous hike on a dog-friendly trail, finding the right outlets for your Malinois's energy is key to a happy, well-balanced dog.

Daily Exercise and Training: A Must

• You must work with them every day and provide lots of exercise. Get them used to people and other animals when they are very young. We rescued ours when he was a bit older, so we missed out on early socialization, which is why he is wary of other dogs that don’t live in the household. (Jessica)
• Ensure you have a job for your dog. (Lisa)
• I highly recommend becoming a member of the Malinois Club and taking advantage of their recommendations for physical exercise, crate training, and mental exercise. (Lindsay)

Give Your Belgian Malinois a Job

• If you do not have a job for the dog, do not get one. They are not suited for city living at all. They need way too much physical exercise, and they have an innate ability to go crazy if left to themselves too long. (DL)
• Remember these are herding dogs. While they can be fine companion animals, they have natural instincts to work. (UR)
• Do not get this breed unless you are willing to work with the dog every day. This is not a breed that can be walked around the block and be satisfied with exercise. Do not get this breed unless you have a plan for activities such as search and rescue, shed hunting, other scent work, obedience trials, etc. These dogs need a job or they can become destructive. (Rachel)

Socialization and Training: Top Priorities

• Train, train, and train some more. They love to work and thrive on learning, and they have an innate ability to learn. (Becca)
• While a well-trained Malinois, as seen on TV or in police or military work, is an incredible and loyal athlete, they aren’t born perfectly trained—it takes a lot of work and time over many months or even years. They’re great for those who want to engage in dog sports! If bored, they will become destructive, chewing on you, your clothes, furniture, walls, and doors without proper guidance. You need several years of experience working with dogs and a strong understanding of canine body language before considering this breed. (RW)

The Belgian Malinois Lifestyle

• They’re a lifestyle breed—you will need to adjust your lifestyle to ensure they receive enough time and attention. (AS)
• These dogs are a lifestyle commitment. You must be able to dedicate time and energy to them or you won’t be able to live with them. (Ruth)
• Malinois puppies are cute, but this is a high-energy dog through and through. If you’re not ready for their physical activity needs, keep looking. When it comes to active breeds, you won’t find one more intense than this. (P)

Frequently Asked Questions about the Belgian Malinois

Belgian Malinois Lifespan: How Long Do They Live?

The average lifespan of a Belgian Malinois is typically between 12 and 14 years. Belgian breeds can live a long time when given the proper care to their health and physical stamina.

Belgian Malinois Size and Growth

An adult Belgian Malinois weighs between 40 and 80 pounds and stands between 22 and 26 inches tall.

Belgian Malinois Grooming: How Much Do They Need?

Belgian Malinois dogs require low-maintenance grooming compared to other Belgian breeds. Regular grooming helps to keep their coat healthy and manageable. They have a short coat that is well-suited for protection from the elements and are considered moderate to high shedders.

To maintain your Belgian Malinois’s coat, brush it weekly to manage shedding and keep the coat healthy. Among herding breeds, Belgian Malinois grooming is relatively easy.

How Much Exercise Does a Belgian Malinois Need?

Belgian Malinois require high levels of activity each day. Though popular, they are classified as an athletic, high-energy breed with a high level of proper care.

Malinois are excellent companions and thrive with over 2 hours of exercise per day, including walks, runs, and play sessions. They particularly enjoy tug-of-war, playing with a ball or frisbee, and obedience training. Some owners say their Dutch shepherds are the perfect biking companions and running companions, helping them meet their physical activity goals.

If they don’t receive enough exercise, they may develop unwanted behavioral issues. These dogs need ongoing training, mental stimulation, and consistent exercise to channel their energy effectively. They can make a great family pet, but they’re best suited for active families.

Are Belgian Malinois Good with Kids?

According to our data, Belgian Malinois are very friendly and social with children.

Do Belgian Malinois Get Along with Other Pets?

Our research indicates that Belgian Malinois pups are generally neutral with other pets, neither particularly friendly nor unfriendly.

Best Food for a Healthy Belgian Malinois

As a high-energy breed, the diet of your Malinois is crucial. A significant 66% of our community feed their Malinois commercial dry kibble.

For optimal health, Malinois should consume 2 to 3 cups of vet-recommended food to maintain a healthy weight between 40 and 80 pounds. The exact amount and type of food will depend on your Belgian Malinois’s sex, activity level, and age. A 22 inches tall Belgian will require less food than a full-sized, 26 inches tall dog.

Common Belgian Malinois Health Issues

The Belgian Malinois breed is particularly prone to digestive issues such as constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, and lack of appetite, as well as joint problems like arthritis, elbow dysplasia, degenerative issues, and osteosarcoma. Our data shows that 33% of Belgian Malinois owners reported digestive issues. Malinois’s risk for these health problems increases with age.

Additionally, 30% of owners reported joint problems, and 20% reported skin conditions such as allergies, yeast infections, impetigo, ringworm, alopecia, and folliculitis. If you have concerns about any of these health issues, consult your Malinois veterinarian for customized, proper care.

Helpful Resources for Belgian Malinois Owners

Bred as herding dogs who are their best when given a job to do, Belgian Malinois are the ideal companions for active families. Whether you’re a current Belgian Malinois owner or considering adopting one, Sniffspot is here to help. Here are some of the most relevant resources for Belgian Malinois owners:

• Most Popular Dog Names for Belgian Malinois
• How to Train a Herding Breed Dog
• American Belgian Malinois Rescue
• American Belgian Malinois Club

Sources:

• Belgian Malinois History (American Kennel Club)
• Belgian Malinois | Characteristics (Britannica)

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