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Belgian Malinois

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Belgian Malinois (Fawn, Lie)
Fawn, Lie

Breed Information

Popularity

2022: #32

2021: #36

2020: #37

2019: #41

2018: #43

2017: #44

2016: #47

2015: #51

Name Belgian Malinois
Other names Malinois, Chien De Berger Belge, Mechelaar, Mechelse Herder, Mechelse Scheper, Pastor Belga Malinois
Origin Belgium
Breed Group Herding (AKC:1959)(UKC)
Size Large
Type Purebred
Life span 12-14 years
Temperament

Active

Alert

Confident

Friendly

Hard-working

Protective

Stubborn

Watchful

Height

Male: 61–66 cm (24–26 in)

Female: 56–61 cm (22–24 in)

Weight

Male: 25–30 kg (55–66 lb)

Female: 20–25 kg (44–55 lb)

Colors

Fawn

Fawn Sable

Mahogany

Red

Red Sable

Litter Size 6-10 puppies
Puppy Prices

Average $1000 - $1800 USD

Usually, the average price of a Belgian Malinois puppy from a reputable breeder is between $800 and $1,800, while a top-quality Belgian Malinois puppy can cost as high as $3,500 and upward. The price depends on the dog's lineage, conformation to breed standards, age, and training.

Breed Characteristics

Adaptability

5 stars

Apartment Friendly

3 stars

The Belgian Malinois will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. It is moderately active indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard. This breed prefers cool climates, but adapts well to others. It can live outdoors but would much rather be with his people.

Barking Tendencies

4 stars

Frequent

Cat Friendly

3 stars

Child Friendly

4 stars

Good with Kids: This is a suitable dog breed for kids. It is also friendly toward other pets and shy toward strangers.

Dog Friendly

3 stars

Exercise Needs

5 stars

This is a working dog that is accustomed to an active outdoor life. As such it needs a lot of exercise, including a long daily walk. In addition, it will greatly benefit being off the leash as much as possible in a safe area.

Grooming

1 stars

Low Maintenance: The Laekenois’ rough coat is easy to care for. Brush it weekly to remove dead hair and distribute skin oils.

Health Issues

3 stars

Hypoallergenic: No

Intelligence

3 stars

Ranking: #22 Full Ranking List

Playfulness

5 stars

Shedding Level

3 stars

Moderate Shedding: The Belgian Malinois has a short brown, grey or fawn coat with possible black-tipped hairs. It has a black mask and ears and a lighter underside. The Belgian Malinois should not be brindle (alternating stripes of color). Belgian Malinois shed heavily once or twice a year.

Stranger Friendly

2 stars

Trainability

5 stars

Easy Training: Training will be enjoyable. This dog is inclined to listen to commands and obey its owner. This breed will require fewer repetitions to obey specific instructions, pleasing owners who like to see quick results.

Watchdog Ability

5 stars

Great Watchdog Ability: This dog will bark and alert its owners when an intruder is present. It exhibits very protective behavior, acts fearless toward any aggressor, and will do what it takes to guard and protect its family.

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Belgian Malinois Puppy (Fawn, Standing)
Fawn, Standing

Belgian Malinois Names

Rank Boy Names Girl Names
01 Charlie Lucy
02 Leo Lola
03 Toby Sadie
04 Jake Zoey
05 Riley Ruby
06 Tucker Missie
07 Sam Roxy
08 Riley Coco
09 Buster Layla
10 Duke Maya
100 Cute Puppy Names ›

Overview

The Belgian Malinois is a sturdy dog of square proportion with moderately heavy, but oval, bone. It is elegant, with very proud head carriage. The overall impression is of power without bulkiness. The gait is smooth and easy, seemingly effortless rather than hard driving. Such a gait gives the impression of tirelessness. The Malinois has a tendency to run in a wide circle rather than a straight line. Its coat is fairly short, straight, and hard, with a dense undercoat. Its expression is intelligent and questioning.

Intense best describes the Belgian Malinois. This is a high-energy breed with a need for regular mental and physical stimulation. It is alert, smart and serious, an ideal watchdog and guard dog. It is aloof with strangers and can be aggressive toward other dogs and animals. Some can be domineering. When confined, it often runs in sweeping circles in an effort to stay on the move. It is protective of its home and family.

History

There are four closely related breeds of Belgian Shepherd collectively referred to as ‘Chien de Berger Belge’, which were classified as independent breeds in 1891. All are herding and guard dogs, and are primarily distinguished by their appearances: the Malinois has short hair, the Laekenois (not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club) has wiry hair, the Groenendael (also known simply as the ‘Belgian Shepherd’) has long, black hair, and the Tervuren has long hair of any other color. The Malinois derives its name from the Belgian city of Mechelen, where it was developed. It is the most popular variety in Belgium, and has become the world’s most popular police dog, including use by the Israeli Defense Forces. It is increasing in popularity as a pet in America, but is most commonly used for sports and service.

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