Breed Profile
Belgian Malinois are protective around strangers, but they bond quickly with their families. They have a keen sense of what’s going on and aren’t afraid to defend their owners and territory. For a happy pup, make Malinois your “only child,” and give them plenty of secured space to play.
Behavior
The Belgian Malinois is energetic, lively, and eager to work. This breed is known for their intelligence and constant awareness of their surroundings. Belgian Malinois need lots of face time and playtime with their owners. They tend to bond strongly with one person in particular and stay attached at the hip. If they have a bad experience as puppies, Malinois can develop phobias of certain objects or places. However, with enough TLC and training, they usually grow out of it as they mature.
Coat
Belgian Malinois have a short brown, grey, or fawn coat, sometimes with black-tipped hair. Their face usually has a black mask and ears, along with a lighter underside. Belgian Malinois shed heavily once or twice a year. Brush and comb them often during those seasons and a few times each week during the rest of the year. Make sure not to brush them too much, as it can damage their undercoat.
Lifestyle
The Belgian Malinois should be socialized as a puppy if they're going to live with other dogs or pets, but their nature is to be protective and aggressive toward foreign animals. They’re shy around strangers but get along well with children. Because of their need for significant socialization and activity, they’re best suited for families that are willing and able to spend a lot of time with them. Malinois are quite large, so they do better in homes with large yards, rather than apartments or small spaces.
Activity
Belgian Malinois need a lot of activity and outdoor exercise each day, such as a long run, walk, hike, or play session in the yard. Malinois thrive most when their minds are stimulated. To keep them engaged, trying playing complex games, sports, and any activity that taps into their natural prey drive. They're very bright and highly active, so be sure to tap into their lively personalities.
Characteristics
Space Needs
Activity Needs
Intelligence
Playfulness
Grooming Needs
Trainability
Watch Ability
Dog-friendliness
Child-friendliness
Belgian Malinois Buyer's Guide
The Belgian Malinois is an intelligent, high-energy dog that loves to work and stand guard. They’re wary of strangers, but once they bond with you, these pups will do whatever it takes to keep you safe. Their protectiveness extends to other dogs and animals too, so Malinois are best suited for homes where they’re the “only child” and have plenty of room to play. Having access to lots of outdoor space also helps the Belgian Malinois burn off their endless energy, stimulate their minds, and stay active. These lively, protective dogs aren’t for everyone, but once they latch on to you, you’ll never want to let go.
Breed information reviewed by the Puppies.com editorial team. Helping families find their perfect puppy since 2003.
Belgian Malinois Quick Facts
249
Available Now
From $200
Starting Price
40–80 lbs
Adult Weight
22–26"
Adult Height
Frequently Asked Questions About Belgian Malinoiss
What makes Belgian Malinoiss special?
Belgian Malinois are protective around strangers, but they bond quickly with their families. They have a keen sense of what’s going on and aren’t afraid to defend their owners and territory. For a happy pup, make Malinois your “only child,” and give them plenty of secured space to play. Full-grown, they typically weigh 40-80 pounds and stand 22-26 inches tall.
Will a Belgian Malinois get along with my other pets?
Belgian Malinoiss are generally okay with older children who know how to handle dogs. The Belgian Malinois should be socialized as a puppy if they're going to live with other dogs or pets, but their nature is to be protective and aggressive toward foreign animals. They’re shy around strangers but get along well with children. They're moderate barkers — they'll alert you when something's up but aren't excessive.
Do Belgian Malinoiss need a lot of physical activity?
Belgian Malinois need a lot of activity and outdoor exercise each day, such as a long run, walk, hike, or play session in the yard. Malinois thrive most when their minds are stimulated. To keep them engaged, trying playing complex games, sports, and any activity that taps into their natural prey drive. Overall, their exercise needs are very high.
What kind of coat care does a Belgian Malinois require?
Belgian Malinois have a short brown, grey, or fawn coat, sometimes with black-tipped hair. Their face usually has a black mask and ears, along with a lighter underside. Belgian Malinois shed heavily once or twice a year. Grooming-wise, this breed is low-maintenance.
Are Belgian Malinoiss a good fit for apartment living?
Belgian Malinoiss are best suited for a home with a yard, though they can adapt to apartment life with enough exercise. Malinois are quite large, so they do better in homes with large yards, rather than apartments or small spaces. They are highly trainable and eager to learn.
