Belgian Malinois

Overview

Overview of Belgian Malinois

If you've ever seen videos of dogs scaling walls more than eight feet or climbing up the side of a house, it's probably a Belgian Malinois! Affectionately known as 'Mals,' the Belgian Malinois is considered by many to be the cream of the crop for any job requiring extreme intelligence and hard work ethic. From their humble beginnings as all-around farm dogs, they have become the breed of choice for law enforcement and the military. Historically, these pups were bred in the Belgian city of Malines, where in the 1800s, a group of dedicated breeders was looking to create the perfect shepherd. You can tell that you're looking at a Belgian Malinois dog by their large black ears, dark muzzle with scissor-like white teeth, and a short coat that ranges from fawn to mahogany. They are one of four varieties of Belgian herding dogs distinguished by their color and coat texture. The other three are the Tervuren (fawn-mahogany, long coat with black mask) the Laekenois (fawn, rough coat), and the Belgian Sheepdog, or Groenendael (long coat, black). Mals can live almost anywhere, as long as they get plenty of daily exercise. The Belgian Malinois’ grooming needs are minimal, but they do shed a lot!

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for Belgian Malinois

Progressive retinal atrophy in dogs:

Is characterized by gradual vision loss that may lead to full or partial blindness. The most common form of PRA in dogs is late-onset which may not develop until a dog reaches five years of age.

Recommendations for Progressive retinal atrophy in dogs in Belgian Malinois Dogs:

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for Belgian Malinois

Hypothyroidism in dogs:

Is a condition that develops when a dog’s thyroid gland is underactive and their metabolism is negatively affected. Symptoms may include weight gain, lethargy, and a dull appearance.

Recommendations for Hypothyroidism in dogs in Belgian Malinois Dogs:

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for Belgian Malinois

Hemangiosarcoma in dogs:

Hemangiosarcoma in dogs: is a type of cancer that occurs almost exclusively in dogs and has been known to affect the German Shepherd and the Belgian Malinois. It is a type of dermal cancer that affects blood vessels and most often impacts the spleen, heart, and liver.

Recommendations for Hemangiosarcoma in dogs in Belgian Malinois Dogs:

Personality

The Belgian Malinois is always ready to work, so if you're thinking about bringing home one of these super dogs, you should enjoy training your dog (a lot)! Mals are happiest with experienced handlers; they may not be the best choice for a first-time dog owner. With the proper care and attention, Belgian Malinois puppies can be great pets but start training early with an emphasis on socialization. This medium to large dog breed (40-80 lbs) excels at scent work (many work as bomb-sniffing pooches) and IGP which is a test for working dogs that evaluates obedience, tracking, and protection skills. So if you want a dog that can scale a brick wall, wants to work all day, and is the preferred K9 companion of the navy seals, then a Belgian Malinois may be the dog for you.