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 Belgian Malinois Training and Temperament
The Belgian Malinois is an intelligent and obedient dog. Serious and watchful with strong protective and territorial instincts. They make excellent police and guard dogs. This breed was used as a war dog in World War I and II.
This breed needs firm training from a skilled leader. Good for working and obedience competitions. As with all dogs, Belgian Malinois training should be started as a puppy. To prevent behavioral problems later in life, training should follow a recognized training regime.
Either enroll in a certified local dog training school or read this.
First Impressions
Square and muscular body.
The History Of The Belgian Malinois
The Belgian Malinois is also known as a Malinois. They originated in Belgium during the 1200's.
There are four herding dogs that are grouped under the term Belgian Shepherds. They all share the same standard and are identical except for coat and color.
The most popular dog is the long-haired Tervuren which is a rich mahogany overlaid with sooty black. Another popular long haired variety is called the Gronendael, which is solid black. The short haired variety is the Malinois, which is a brown or tan color with black mask and ears.
The Belgian Sheepdogs are shown as varieties of a single breed in some countries. Other countries including Belgium, show them as three separate breeds. The American Kennel Club considers them three separate breeds.
Description Of The Belgian Malinois
Medium length, bushy tail carried low and never altered. Ears are erect and are not altered.
The breed averages 24 - 26 inches for dogs, with bitches 22 - 24 inches and 55-65 pounds.
The Belgian Malinois is about as long as it is tall. It is a muscular dog but solid but very agile, with a proud demeanor.
Coat & Grooming
The smooth, short-haired coat of the Malinois is easy to groom. Brush regularly with a firm bristle brush and bathe only when absolutely necessary, as bathing removes the waterproofing from the coat. This breed is a light constant shedder, but sheds heavily twice a year.
Dew claws may be removed from the front legs and should be removed from the back legs.
Life Expectancy and Health
The average life span for a Belgian Malinois is around 12-14 years.
This tough, healthy breed has no major health concerns. Some minor problems reported are skin allergies, eye problems, excessive shyness, excessive aggressiveness and occasionally hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia.
Please read our page on health problems by clicking here.
Preferred Environment and Exercise Requirements
The Belgian Malinois will be fine in an apartment given sufficient exercise. It is moderately active indoors and prefers an average size yard. They prefer cool climates will adapt to others. It can live outdoors.
This is a working dog and needs a lot of exercise, preferably off the leash in a safe area.
For More Information on the Belgian Malinois
To get more information, check out the Belgian Malinois web site:
www.american-belgian-malinois-club.org
There may also be rescue dogs available. Check for details on:
www.malinoisrescue.org
Summary
This breed can be aggressive. It was bred to protect flocks from attack by wolves and wild dogs and still has that strong territorial protectiveness. As one of the rarest AKC breeds a Malinois puppy will be difficult to find.
:: Belgian Malinois Training ::
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