Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois)

History of the Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois)

The Malinois, one of four varieties of the Belgian Shepherd Dog, originates in Belgium, where it was bred as a herding and guard dog. The name "Malinois" refers to the city of Mechelen, where the breed took its current form. Their intelligence and versatility make Malinois popular today with police and military units worldwide, as well as active families.

Character and Temperament

The Malinois is an extremely intelligent, energetic, and devoted dog. They are known for their vigilance, loyalty, and work ethic. This breed has a strong bond with its family and instinctively protects it. They excel in training and perform outstandingly in various disciplines, such as obedience, tracking, and canine sports. Due to their high energy levels, they require an experienced owner who can challenge them both physically and mentally.

Physical Characteristics

The Malinois is a medium-sized, muscular dog with an athletic build. They have a short, hard coat that is usually light brown with black tips and a black mask. An adult Malinois has a shoulder height of 56-66 cm and weighs an average of 25-30 kg.

Collar/harness sizes:

Neck circumference: 45-55 cm
Chest circumference: 70-85 cm

Care

The Malinois' short coat requires minimal grooming. Weekly brushing helps remove loose hair and keeps the coat in good condition. More frequent brushing may be necessary during shedding periods. Regularly check their nails, ears, and teeth to maintain their overall health.

Movement and Activity

The Malinois is a very active dog that needs intensive daily exercise. Long walks, running, tracking activities, and dog sports such as agility and obedience are ideal for this breed. They also need mental stimulation, such as puzzles and training sessions, to prevent boredom and unwanted behavior.

Health

The Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) is generally a healthy breed, but can be susceptible to conditions such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet are essential to ensure their well-being. The average lifespan of a Malinois is 12-14 years.

Nutrition

A Malinois needs a high-quality diet rich in protein and nutrients to support their energetic lifestyle. They require an average of 300-500 grams of dog food per day, depending on their age, weight, and activity level. Ensure they always have access to fresh water.

Training and Socialization

The Malinois is intelligent and a quick learner, but requires a consistent and experienced trainer. Early socialization is essential to ensure they interact well with other dogs, people, and new situations. They excel in obedience and enjoy challenging training activities, such as tracking and protection work.

Suitability for Owners

The Malinois is suitable for active and experienced owners who can dedicate a lot of time and attention to their dog. They thrive best in an environment where they have a task or purpose and are regularly challenged physically and mentally. Due to their high energy levels and strong will, they are less suitable for first-time dog owners.

Share your Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois)!

Do you own a Malinois? We're curious to hear about your experiences and stories! Send a photo of your Malinois to klantenservice@fidello.nl and receive a 10% discount on your next purchase. Want to participate in a video for FidelloTV and earn €20 in shopping credit? Make an appointment via klantenservice@fidello.nl and help us share more about this impressive breed on YouTube!