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.
Behaviour:
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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