The Belgian Malinois is a highly intelligent and energetic herding breed known for its versatility in various working roles such as police and military work. It requires an experienced owner, extensive exercise, and consistent training.
Origin and Purpose
Developed in Belgium as a herding dog, now used as a police and military dog, also excels in sports and protection work.
Appearance
Dimensions
Gender
Height
Weight
Female
22-24 inches (56-61 cm)
40-60 pounds (18-27 kg)
Male
24-26 inches (61-66 cm)
60-80 pounds (27-36 kg)
Coat
Attribute
Notes
Color
Fawn, red, or gray with black tipping, often with a black mask
Type
Double coat, short and dense
Length
Short
Care
Attribute
Notes
Shedding
Moderate to heavy
Grooming
Weekly brushing
Drooling
Low
Body
Attribute
Notes
Head
Well-chiseled, strong without being heavy
Skull
Flat on top, not domed
Ears
Triangular, erect, and firm
Eyes
Brown, medium-sized, almond-shaped
Nose
Black
Muzzle
Moderately pointed, with straight topline
Teeth
Strong, with a scissors bite
Neck
Strong, muscular, slightly arched
Forequarters
Shoulders long and oblique, well muscled
Fore Legs
Straight, strong, parallel
Hindquarters
Powerful, well-muscled
Hind Legs
Straight, parallel, with moderate angulation
Feet
Round, cat-like
Tail
Strong at the base, medium length, reaching to the hock, may have a slight curve
Gait
Smooth, effortless, ground-covering
Temperament
Intelligent, alert, loyal, confident, and protective, can be aloof with strangers
Social
Attribute
Notes
Affectionate with Family
Very affectionate
Good with Children
Good with older children when properly socialized
Good with Dogs
Good with other dogs if socialized, may be same-sex aggressive
Good with Cats
May have a prey drive, requires careful introduction
Openness to Strangers
Reserved and cautious
Playfulness Level
High
Protective Nature
Very protective
Adaptability Level
Moderate, needs structure and routine
Working Roles
Police work
Military work
Search and rescue
Personal protection
Herding
Competitive obedience and agility
Exercise Needs
High, requires extensive daily physical and mental exercise
Health
Hip and elbow dysplasia
Progressive retinal atrophy
Epilepsy
Hypothyroidism
Bloat
Additional Notes
Requires a firm, experienced owner who can provide consistent training and socialization. Not suited for novice dog owners.
akc
ankc
ckc
fci
nzkc
rkc
ukc
