Begian Malinois

Appearance:

Body: A Square body with a deep chest and lean, elegant appearance.

Coat: Short, straight, and coarse with a dense undercoat.

Color: Brown and yellow or fawn to mahogany with black-tipped ears and muzzle appearing like a mask.

Ears: Stiff, erect, and triangular-shaped.

Eyes: Brown to dark brown and slightly almond-shaped with black rims.

Feet: Forefeet are round, cat-like, and well-padded with curved toes. The hind feet are slightly oval-shaped.

Head: Clean-cut, powerful, and alert. A flat skull and moderate stop with a somewhat pointed muzzle, black nose and strong jaws.

Legs: Forelegs are well-muscled, trim, and straight with oval-shaped bones. The hind legs have well-muscled thighs, oval-shaped bones, and are somewhat angled.

Neck: A rounded neck that carries the head proudly. It hangs down when relaxed and has a slight curve.

Size:
Weight: 60 - 80 pounds
Height:22 - 26 inches

Tail: Well-muscled at the base and curved when held upward.

Behavior

Recommended for experienced handlers.
Good with children if they are older and respectful.

The Belgian Malinois is a highly intelligent and quick learning dog with a serious devotion to his work and to his master. He is athletic yet elegant and graceful in movement and affectionate with those he considers family. He is a self-assured and hard working dog who will respond to his masters commands willingly.

The Mali will make a wonderful family member if you are able to provide a great deal of time and energy to him. This is an active breed in need of lots of physical exercise and mental stimulation to stay fit. If you are into hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities, and you are a intelligent and experienced dog handler, this breed will be a good choice for you.

Breed Type

AKC Group: Herding Group
Originally used for herding and guarding livestock.

Of the four Belgian breeds, the American Kennel Club ("AKC") recognized only the Groenendael under the name "Belgian Sheepdog". The Tervuren, and the Malinois are recognized as separate breeds and the Laekenois can be registered as part of the AKC stock service.

Care and Grooming

Exercise: A great deal of physical exercise and mental stimulation is required to keep this dog from becoming bored and frustrated.

Grooming: His double coat requires regular weekly brushing except during shedding season (spring and fall) when he will require daily grooming.

Health

Life Expectancy: 11 - 12 Years

A generally healthy dog

Possible Problems:
Hip Dysplasia
Seizures

Country of Origin

Belgium - 1800s