Belgian Malinois Dog Breed Essential Information

The Belgian Malinois is a large intelligent dog that requires plenty of space. They are not suited to an apartment as they need a large properly fenced in enclosure to keep them exercised. They are an elegant well muscled dog, intelligent and eager to work. They will guard the family and make a great watchdog. They are good with older children but may not be good with your childrens friends. Just a reminder, never leave any young child unsupervised with a puppy or dog for any length of time. They may not take to other dogs and pets but can often be socialized to accept them.

*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male Belgian Malinois is approximately 24 to 26 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and weigh about 65 to 75 pounds. Females are approximately 22 to 24 inches at the withers and weigh approximately 55 to 65 pounds.

*Special Health Considerations. All dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Belgian Malinois is no exception. Look for epilepsy (common in dogs), eye problems, canine hip dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness) and excessive shyness.

*Grooming. The Belgian Malinois has an easy short hair coat. She should be bathed rarely as this strips her coat of its protective oils. She should be brushed at least weekly. She is a light shedder and brushing will help keep your house free of shed hair. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat and also help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with your pet.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

*Life Span. The can live between 12 and 14 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

*History. The Belgian Malinois is a variety of the Belgian Shepherd dog from Belgium. The American Kennel Club recognized this breed on July 10, 1990. Today these dogs are used for military and police work because they are fast learners, willing to work, intelligent and aggressive.

Some Registries:

American Belgian Malinois Club

*UKC United Kennel Club

*NKC National Kennel Club

*CKC Continental Kennel Club

*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.

*AKC American Kennel Club

*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale

*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club

*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain

*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club

*ACR = American Canine Registry

Litter Size: 6 to 10 Belgian Malinois puppies.

Category: Herding, Sheepdog Family

Terms To Describe: Elegant, well muscled, proud, obedient, loyal,

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS

Very intelligent.

Little grooming needed.

Responds well to commands.

Good with family children.

Very good watch dog.

Very good guard dog.

*SPECIAL BAD POINTS

Can be very aggressive.

Owner should be an experienced dog owner.

May not be good with your childrens friends.

Needs early proper training to curb aggressiveness.

*Other Names Known By: Malinois, Chien de Berger Belge

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