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Height:
24 to 26 inches (male); 22 to 24 inches (female).
Size:
Large.
Weight:
60 to 75 pounds (male); 40 to 55 (female).
Availability:
Difficult to find.
History:
The Belgian Malinois, named for the Belgian city of Malines, is one of
the four varieties of Belgian Shepherd Dog. In most parts of the world,
the four varieties (Groenendael (long-haired black), Malinois (short-haired
fawn with black mask and black overlay), Tervuren (long-haired, in shades
of fawn through gray with black mask and black overlay), and Laekenois
(rough-haired fawn) are considered to be a single breed. However, the
AKC, since 1959, has recognized the Groenendael (Belgian Sheepdog), Malinois
and Tervuren as separate breeds and doesn't recognize the Laekenois at
all. The first Malinois was registered with the AKC in 1912. The Belgian
Malinois gained full recognition as a separate AKC breed in 1965. Although
it is still quite rare in America, the Malinois variety is very popular
in Belgium. This versatile and highly intelligent dog excels at many activities
including tracking, agility, obedience, protection and Schutzhund, narcotics
and bomb detection work, search and rescue, herding and pulling sleds
or carts. Although the Belgian Malinois is not for everyone, this high
energy dog makes an excellent family companion if properly socialized
and trained.
Description:
The standard for the Belgian Malinois frequently uses the word "square"
to describe this breed, as the dog's body is about as long as it is tall.
The elegant Malinois is a muscular dog, but not heavy; solid, but very
agile, with a proud carriage. The topline is level with a slight slope
at the withers. The chest is neither broad nor narrow, but is deep, reaching
to the elbow. The front legs are very straight and parallel to each other,
with round cat-feet. Dewclaws may be removed from the front legs and should
be removed from the back legs. The long tail reaches at least to the hock.
The short-haired coat is fawn to red to mahogany with black tips, mask
and ears and a thick undercoat. Some white is allowed on the chest and
feet. The hair around the neck is a bit longer and forms a collar. The
small dark brown, almond-shaped eyes have an alert and questioning expression.
The alert erect ears should be equilateral triangles. They should be in
good proportion to the dog's head. The muzzle tapers, but is not excessively
pointy. The skull is flat and parallel to the plane of the muzzle. The
nose is black and the lips should be tight. The teeth should meet in a
scissors or level bite.
Notes:
The short coat sheds twice a year with some additional shedding year round.
Like many herding breeds, young puppies can be somewhat nippy. Needs to
be handled by an experienced owner who can train with consistency and
skill. If improperly socialized or trained, may be aggressive with other
dogs (especially true of males). The Malinois prefers to live inside with
his family. Though the rate of hip dysplasia in this breed is very low,
buy only from OFA certified stock as a precaution. Eye problems are also
uncommon in this breed, but parents should still have current CERF certifications.
For a pet, it may be best to avoid puppies from primarily working lines
as working lines tend to be more active, have sharper personalities, and
are more difficult for less experienced handlers. Thanks to Cindy Fitzgerald
for coordinating reviews of the Belgian Malinois material done by the
Belg-l on-line Belgian Shepherd Dog fanciers and to Derede Arthur for
organizing the review process.
Personality:
Very smart and responsive--a super obedience dog. Confident, proud, serious
and alert. A devoted, affectionate one-family dog that is reserved with
strangers. Possessive of his family. Animals displaying excessive aggression
or fearfulness should be avoided. Does best if given ample time, attention,
training and companionship. Quite active--tends to move in circles (herding
behavior). Instinctively protective, so he should be trained and socialized
very well from an early age. Breeders should socialize puppies right from
birth. Sensitive --harsh training methods don't work well with this breed.
Can be quite good with children. Needs to be part of the family--not a
kennel dog. If ignored, the Malinois will find ways to entertain himself,
often at the owner's expense. The Belgian Malinois has a lot of energy
and needs a job to do. Working lines can have particularly high drive.
Behavior:
Children: Best with older, considerate children.
Friendliness: Moderately protective.
Trainability: Very easy to train.
Independence: Moderately dependent on people.
Dominance: Moderate.
Other Pets: Generally good with other pets.
Combativeness: Can be a bit dog-aggressive.
Noise: Average barker.
Grooming and Physical Needs:
Grooming: A little grooming needed.
Trimming & Stripping: No trimming or stripping needed.
Coat: Short coat.
Shedding: Constant shedder.
Exercise: Vigorous daily exercise needed.
Jogging: An excellent jogging companion.
Indoors: Moderately active indoors.
Apartments: Will be OK in an apartment if sufficiently exercised.
Outdoor Space: Best with at least an average-size yard.
Climate: Does well in most climates.
Owner: Not recommended for novice owners.
Longevity: Average (10 to 12 years).
Talents:
tracking, retrieving, herding, watchdog, guarding, police work, narcotics
detection, military work, search & rescue, sledding, carting, agility,
competitive obedience, Schutzhund, and performing tricks.
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