Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois is one of four breeds known as Belgian Shepherds, developed in Belgium in the late 19th century for herding and protection tasks. The breed was named after the city of Malines in Belgium. Known for their intelligence and versatility, Belgian Malinois have been widely used in police work, search and rescue operations, and military roles due to their trainability and strong work ethic.

  • Height: Males typically stand between 24 to 26 inches (61 to 66 cm) at the shoulder, while females generally measure around 22 to 24 inches (56 to 61 cm).
  • Weight: Males weigh approximately 60 to 80 pounds (27 to 36 kg), while females weigh between 40 to 60 pounds (18 to 27 kg).


Belgian Malinois are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and protective nature. They are highly energetic and require mental stimulation as well as physical exercise. They are devoted to their families but can be wary of strangers, making them excellent watchdogs. Socialization from an early age is crucial to help them develop into well-rounded adults.


The coat of the Belgian Malinois is short and dense, typically exhibiting a rich fawn color with a black mask and black tips on the ears. They have a double coat that provides some protection against the elements. Regular grooming is needed, especially during shedding seasons, to keep their coat healthy.

Belgian Malinois thrive in active environments and require a significant amount of physical exercise and mental engagement. They do best in homes with active families or individuals who can devote time to training and activities. Access to a secure yard is beneficial, but they also require daily walks and playtime. They may not be suitable for apartment living, as they need space to move and run.

Belgian Malinois excel in various activities due to their intelligence and high energy levels:

  • Obedience Training: They respond well to positive reinforcement training and excel in obedience classes.
  • Agility and Flyball: They enjoy agility courses and competitive sports that challenge them physically and mentally.
  • Protection Work: Many Malinois are trained in protection work and serve as working dogs in police or military roles.
  • Herding: True to their herding backgrounds, they enjoy participating in herding trials and activities.
  • Frisbee and Fetch: Engaging in play with frisbees or fetch is a great way to provide exercise and fun.

Overall, the Belgian Malinois is a highly intelligent and versatile breed that thrives on physical activity and mental challenges, making them excellent companions for active families and individuals.