Belgian Malinois

• ExerciseVery high

  Thrives with a job, sport or serious daily exercise.

• GroomingWeekly brushing

  A weekly brush keeps the coat healthy.

• Living spaceHouse with room

  Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment14–16 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hip dysplasia · Elbow dysplasia · Progressive retinal atrophy

The Belgian Malinois is the elite working dog of military and police service — brilliant, intensely driven, athletic and virtually tireless — and that is exactly why it is the wrong dog for almost every pet home. This is not a German Shepherd 'lite'; it has an even higher work drive and energy level, and it needs a genuine job with hours of hard physical exercise plus demanding mental work and training every single day. An under-worked Malinois does not just misbehave — it becomes obsessive, destructive and difficult, dismantling a household out of sheer frustrated drive. It suits only very experienced, active owners committed to serious training or dog sport. The short coat is easy, needing only a weekly brush, though it sheds. Given the right outlet, a Malinois is an astonishingly capable, loyal and responsive partner. Health-wise it is one of the more robust breeds, but buy from a breeder who screens hips, elbows and eyes, and be aware of hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy and epilepsy. Commit to daily hard work, training and structure, and a Belgian Malinois will be an extraordinary working companion for fourteen to sixteen years.

• How much exercise does a Belgian Malinois need?

  Very high. Thrives with a job, sport or serious daily exercise.

• How much grooming does a Belgian Malinois need?

  Weekly brushing. A weekly brush keeps the coat healthy.

• Is a Belgian Malinois suited to apartment living?

  House with room. Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Is a Belgian Malinois a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Belgian Malinois live?

  14–16 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Belgian Malinois?

  Keep an eye out for Hip dysplasia, Elbow dysplasia, Progressive retinal atrophy. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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