👉 Coming up with a pet name can be fun but tricky. Search no further! According to PetScreening’s 2024 database, the majority of our users name their male Belgian Malinois Max; Zeus is the 2nd most popular male name. Meanwhile, most of our users with female Belgian Malinois love Luna, then Athena.
Belgian Malinois vary in temperament depending on early socialization, access to physical activity, and other environmental factors. They have strong protective instincts and may need extensive attention, especially at a young age. In the right home with ample physical activity, this playful, intelligent, and athletic breed will thrive. Malinois can also be good with children and other animals when properly introduced.
The Belgian Malinois is a medium-sized, short-haired dog. Its weather-resistant coat may be any of the four colors recognized by the AKC breed standard, including fawn, fawn sable, mahogany, red, or red sable. The most common hue among Malinois is fawn—a light golden color with a black overlay—complemented by a black mask and ears. We teamed up with FidoTabby Alert, and according to their database, a common coat color for the Belgian Malinois is (64%) brown.
Though Belgian Malinois are a relatively healthy breed, these dogs are prone to a few specific health conditions beyond common ailments such as dental disease and bacterial or viral infections.
Common health issues such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cataracts range between $1,500 to $5,000 each to diagnose and treat. One way pet owners can reduce out-of-pocket expenses is by purchasing health insurance. You may also consider developing a pet budget.
The Belgian Malinois were officially classified in Belgium during the late 19th century as one of four varieties of Belgium shepherd dog:
In 1911, the Belgian Malinois arrived in the United States, but their popularity waned until after the end of World War II. In 1959, the American Kennel Club recognized them as a separate breed. Though the Belgian Malinois were bred to be sheepherders and guardians in their native lands, they’ve become beloved pets worldwide.
Bringing a new puppy of any breed into your home and life can be overwhelming. You’ll need to schedule your first trip to the vet, plan out your dog’s vaccinations, and even puppy-proof your home. Beyond the basics of caring for any pet, your Belgian Malinois may require more of you than some other breeds.
Due to its highly protective nature, you’ll want to get right to training for socialization so that you can introduce your Belgian Malinois to new people and animals. We highly recommend puppy training classes for this breed.
Lastly, no one likes to think about losing their new dog, but unforeseen things happen, and it’s important to be ready. Consider looking into FidoAlert, which provides a free Fido ID and tag so you’re prepared.
Belgian Malinois fare best when their owners have the time to train them and maintain their physical activity needs. Thus, the breed is not ideal for those who work extended hours and is generally not recommended for novice pet owners.
Exercise tips for your Belgian Malinois
To avoid boredom, acquaint your pup with mentally stimulating puzzle toys or interactive games like tug-of-war.
Belgian Malinois have short, dense coats that don’t require daily or even weekly brushing, but you will notice more shedding as the seasons shift and a buildup of dirt and debris from extreme weather. You can minimize dander with consistent brushing and a bath every few weeks as needed.
The double coat of a Belgian Malinois takes a little extra attention, but with a routine and the right equipment, it’s manageable:
Don’t neglect other grooming regimens: nail trimming, ear cleaning, or your pet’s dental health!
It isn’t difficult for a Belgian Malinois to pack on some extra pounds. When considering their nutrition, prioritize healthy fats, proteins, and all the essential vitamins they need to thrive.
In general, an adult Belgian Malinois should eat about two or three cups of high-quality, large-breed dry dog food each day, depending on the caloric density of their diet. If your pup gets picky or isn’t getting enough water, you can mix in some canned food. As always, refer to your pet’s vet for questions related to diet and nutrition, including food portioning.
Belgian Malinois are highly trainable, but you must put in consistent time and effort. This breed thrives on positive reinforcement, and over-discipline can deter these sensitive souls from listening. You’ll also want to focus on keeping boredom at bay and start socialization early to expose them to other animals, people, and environments.
In addition to crate training, consider hiring a professional trainer for your Belgian Malinois. You can also peruse our list of expert training tips.
Not quite sure that a Belgian Malinois is right for you? Even if you are, it’s worth taking the time to research and consider other similar breeds. Here are a few to get you started:
The Belgian Malinois, part of the herding group, is a short-coated variety of the Belgian shepherd dog.
Belgian Malinois are confident, protective, and highly intelligent. They may be reserved with strangers and other animals, but proper socialization and training can encourage this breed to be more friendly and affectionate.
Belgian Malinois are incredibly intelligent dogs and are considered highly trainable. In addition to crate training, your socialization and early training should include extensive physical exercise and mental stimulation. Belgian Malinois love structure. Professional training is also recommended for this breed.
No, most vets would not recommend a Belgian Malinois for novice pet owners as they need more time and exercise — both physical and mental — compared to other breeds.
Belgian Malinois can be great with kids, especially if they are raised alongside the children. For unfamiliar or especially unruly young children, the Belgian Malinois may have a hard time adapting, so prioritize early socialization and training. Remember, you should never leave any dog unsupervised with young children.
