| AKC Group: | Herding |
| A.K.A.: | Belgian Shepherd |
| Functions: | Guard dog, Police Dog |
| Year of Origin: | 1800s |
| Country of Origin: | Belgium |
| Life Span (yr): | 12 - 14 |
| Colors: | Fawn, Brindle, Liver, Mahogany, Red, Cream, Black, Gray |
| Height (Inch): | 21 - 27 |
| Weight (lb): | 55 - 65 |
| Size: | Large |
| Hair Length: | Short |
| Energy: |  |
| Playfulness: | |
| Ease of Training: | |
| Exercise Needed: |  |
| Self Protection: |  |
| Grooming: | |
| Shedding: | |
| Watch Dog: | |
| Living Area: | |
Appearance:
The clean, strong appearance of the Belgian Malinois makes him a delightful breed of dog for most owners. His expression shows that he is aware and attentive – just waiting for the next piece of action. Sometime he looks as if he is asking a question – all through his dark, mid-sized eyes. His ears are held upright and are like little hard triangles. His ears never hang down. The Belgian Malinois has a round shaped neck that narrows from as it reaches his head. His coat is rough to the touch and resists inclement weather – rain, sleet, snow or all of the above.
Temperament:
The Belgian Malinois has a confident demeanor that is best seen when he is working. Even if he is in a situation that is entirely foreign to him, he will not be timid or hostile. He can be aloof among those he does not know, but he is extremely loving towards his own family. Without crossing the line into hostility, he is territorial and protective over his home and his family, mainly because of his natural instincts to watch over a herd. The Belgian Malinois loves to work and obeys his master without fault. Socialization is important – so he can be friendly to children and animals of all sizes.
Health:
The only heath concerns for the Belgian Malinois are minor ones relating to allergies and hip dysplasia. If he can avoid any undue irritation to his skin and can be prevented from excessive jumping from tall places, then he has a strong possibility of living a life free from serious illness. He should visit his veterinarian on a routine basis – usually once or twice a year will suffice. At that time, he can receive his vaccinations and be checked for parasites, such as heartworm. If the Belgian Malinois is given a high quality dog food, it will also help to keep him fit.
Maintenance:
The simplicity that encompasses the Belgian Malinois is particularly evident through the level of maintenance. His coat is not difficult to groom. Just give him regular brushings and only bathe him if it is absolutely needed. Over-bathing the Belgian Malinois will ruin the water resistant nature of his coat by stripping it of its oils. Since one of his primary goals in life is to herd, he loves any time he can spend outside (although he prefers to sleep inside with his family). He requires long walks and time off of his leash. Dog parks are great places to let him safely run free.