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Belgian Malinois Colors Explained

Complete Belgian Malinois Colors, Patterns and Pictures

Many people are unaware that the Belgian Malinois is not just one color or pattern. According to the American Kennel Club, there are five different colors and patterns, each with unique characteristics.

The most common colors of the purebred Belgian Malinois include Fawn, red, fawn sable, red sable, and mahogany. These Belgian Malinois colors can be found in multiple patterns, making for even more possibilities. There are also seven non-standard color variants of the Belgian Shepherd Malinois.

Read on to find out more about what your pet’s coat may look like!

The Belgian Malinois is a striking dog with an active and athletic personality. Most people are attracted to Belgian Malinois for its intelligence and versatility. They have a striking appearance because of how neat they look, with short, straight fur that comes in different patterns and colors.

Belgian Malinois are a unique breed of dog, with just about any color you can imagine and many different patterns. Belgian Malinois are known for their bright, distinctive coats that come in various colors. Whether you’re looking to get one as a pet or want more information on what they look like and which color is the rarest, this article has all the details!

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Belgian Malinois can be found in twelve standard coat colors, five of which are standard colors and seven are non-standard. The famous standard colors are Red, Fawn sable, Fawn, Red sable, and Mahogany. All of these standard colors include a signature black masking.

Belgian Malinois Colors Explained
Belgian Malinois Colors Explained

Different Varieties of Belgian Malinois

A purebred Belgian Malinois is one of the most unique dog breeds. Due to complex genetics, they come in various colors and patterns, making each pattern distinct among these mighty dogs. You can have your Belgian Malinois puppy with black or brown spots on near-white, cream fur; this is just the beginning, as they also offer limitless coat color options.

The Malinois is often mistaken for the German Shepherd, but it’s not nearly as big. It ranks thirty-nine on the American Kennel Club’s (AKC) most popular breeds list, while the GSD ranks at number three.

They are becoming the new guard dogs of choice. With their excellent guarding skills, they have replaced German Shepherds as a favorite for police and military forces worldwide.

The Belgian shepherd dog breeds are of four types: the Belgian Tervuren, the Belgian Malinois, the Belgian Laekenois, and the Belgian Sheepdog. If you look at the structure of these Belgian Shepherd dogs, they are almost the same, but what makes them different is the coat and the colors.

Belgian Malinois Colors Explained
Belgian Malinois Colors Explained

Belgian Malinois Colors

There are some standard Belgian Malinois colors and patterns, and all of these colors are discussed under the banners of the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC)American Kennel Club (AKC), and United Kennel Club (UKC).

Kennel Club

Belgian Malinois Coat Colors 

 (FCI) Federation Cynologique Internationale

Fawn with black overlay

(UKC) United Kennel Club 

Fawn and sable (all colors through beige to gray)

(CKC) Canadian Kennel Club 

Any shade of fawn to mahogany, brindle, black, black with tan, blue fawn, grey fawn, and white

(AKC) American Kennel Club 

Fawn, fawn sable, mahogany, red, red sable, black, brindle, cream, cream sable, gray, gray sable, and liver

The Belgian Malinois breed coat is double-layered, with a dense undercoat for insulation and an outer layer of waterproof fur. The thickest part covers the back legs, tail, and neck area – all those spots are most at risk of getting wet or dirty.

They undergo what’s known as “blowing” their coat in the spring and fall – meaning they shed heavily during this time of year.

While it is no easy feat to find the perfect dog, there are many breeds in which you can still feel confident. For instance, take a Belgian Malinois when compared with other German Shepherds and even some lesser-known breeds among these sheepdogs that share similar characteristics like size or color.

The Belgian Malinois breed is a dog with many different color and pattern combinations. It can be found in twelve colors, which range from black to red, cream to fawn, etc. However, the five most common are all variations of brown: mahogany (darkest), chocolate-brown, light brown & tan; sable or silver, and pale yellowish-white.

All twelve breed standard colors are listed in order of rarity, and the first five are standard colors. Whereas some people have their favorite color and others don’t care as much, there is something about these rare hues that fascinate anyone who sees them for the first time!

Cream Sable Belgian Malinoi
Cream Sable Belgian MalinoiS or Gray Belgian Malinois

Mahogany Belgian Malinois

The mahogany Belgian Malinois can be a light brownish-red to deep rich mahogany. The diversity of colors in the breed is what makes them so exciting and appealing, but some common hues stand out among its color palette, like dark reds and lighter shades of brown or gold with hints of black fur mixed into it all.

The gene that determines how light or dark a Malinois coat can be is the one for pheomelanin, which produces red pigment. There are two varieties of this color pigmentation, each affecting different parts of the body’s hair.

The second type of eumelanin (black) affects things like ear leathers because those bits aren’t always exposed to sunlight.

Mahogany Belgian Malinois
Mahogany Belgian Malinois

Fawn Sable Belgian Malinois

Fawn Sable Belgian Malinois is just an entirely different breed color from fawn-coated Belgian Malinois. They have a darker fawn shade instead of a lighter coat color like their counterparts.

The Malinois breed of a dog contains hair strands that start out at its roots, being light fawn color before getting dark towards its tips. This makes them very popular among people.

Fawn Belgian Malinois

These Malinios typically boast yellowish tan-colored fluffy hair that can range anywhere on a spectrum from lighter shades such as cream or beige down to darker tones like chocolate brown coffee beans, depending on genetics. With such striking coat colors that vary widely, you’ll never know anybody can fall in love when looking at this breed.

This Belgian Malinois is one breed you can find fairly easily if you want it. Typically, they have this shade from birth, which is more common than other breeds because these dogs are so popular among pet owners.

The Belgian Malinois’s black masks, which surround the nose, mouth, ears, and eye rims, are even more distinct in their fawn color. This is due to their beautiful contrast of fawn against black.

Fawn Belgian Malinois
Fawn Belgian Malinois

Red Sable Belgian Malinois

It is not surprising that this type of Malinois sports such an intense hue of color. But what you may not know now about this breed’s coat is the reason for all those rich tones: its naturally high level of pheomelanin pigment. However, they have the same tip coat color as other dogs of this breed. If their hair grows longer and thicker, they will appear darker.

Red Sable Belgian Malinois
Red Sable Belgian Malinois

Red Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois puppy has a beautiful coat that is lighter than mahogany. The dogs are classified as having either red or mahogany coats, with the former appearing more often in this dog breed.

Other Belgian Malinois have a black mask that stands out against the red fur of this breed. This is true, especially when displayed on their nose, ears, and around the rims of their eyes and mouth.

The red coat draws the people’s eyes to their black masking. This is partly due to an MC1R allele called Extension, which causes gene mutations that cause skin tones and hair coloration to darken more than usual.

Belgian Malinois Puppies
Fawn Belgian Malinois Puppies

Black Belgian Malinois

They look like majestic animals. Black Belgian Malinois are more loved because of their coat and appearance, although they do not have the standard color according to AKC guidelines.

The black Malinois has a sleek, pure black body with a signature dark mask across its face to easily identify it from other dog breeds.

Black Belgian Malinois
Black Belgian Malinois

Cream Belgian Malinois

There are many shades of cream, from the palest yellow to a rich buttery color. It’s no surprise that this is one of the most popular colors. While other breeds may have some variation on cream for their fur coat, Belgian Malinois will never be found sporting such an understated hue.

The Belgian Malinois has a distinctive coloration that sets it apart from other breeds, namely its lack of eumelanin in favor of cream fur with dark markings around ears, eyes, mouth, and nose. This natural coloring and imposing stature make this breed particularly eye-catching when out on walks or at dog shows.

Cream Belgian Malinois
Cream Belgian Malinois

Brindle Belgian Malinois

Brindles comprise only 4% (or less!)of all dogs worldwide. There may not be many around, but that doesn’t stop them from being loved by people everywhere. A Brindle coat color is the famous one among breeders and Malinois lovers. This excellent blend of coloring will make your dog look like they’re wearing camouflage.

The coat of a brindle dog is known by streaks that are darker and more obvious than the base color and irregular in shape. Many people love these dogs for their rarity and because they’re too darn cute. Some might be darker than others, but they all have an adorable and peculiar appearance to them as well.

Brindle Belgian Malinois
Brindle Belgian Malinois

Cream Sable Belgian Malinois

So, do you know how to identify Sable Malinois dogs? If not, don’t worry because you only have to know that the hair on a dog’s body becomes lighter as it travels from the base to the tip.

Belgian Malinois dogs have a distinctive coat that starts as an attractive creamy color at the center of their body before darkening into a sleek, ebony edge surrounding it on all sides.

Gray Sable Belgian Malinois

Just like cream sable and red sable, the gray sable Belgian Malinois has a base coat of light color that becomes darker and grayer on the tips.

This fact makes it harder to identify from the gray non-sable variety. But, with their eye-catching coat and impressive disposition, they are certainly not hard on the eyes.

Gray or Blue Belgian Malinois

Gray is a rare hue of the Belgian Malinois black pigment. It makes them more precious because not many dogs have this coloration, making them easy to spot in a crowd.

The Belgian Malinois is a breed of dog that is also known as Blue Dogs. The appearance of the gray Belgian Malinois can sometimes lead people to believe them blue in coloration, especially during puppyhood.

Liver Belgian Malinois

The liver of Belgian Malinois is due to the attenuation of the black pigment, eumelanin. B locus usually takes over and replaces this with a brownish tint that can vary in shades depending on what other genes are present.

Liver Malinois can have a variety of shades, from yellow to red or cream. The shade depends on the concentration and amount of (red) pigment pheomelanin they carry in their body hair. All of the dogs with liver-coat have amber eyes and liver noses.

Rare Belgian Malinois

Have you seen the many coat colors Malinois comes in? Did you know which one is a rare Belgian Malinois? The Belgian Malinois’s rarest color up till now is brindle. This dark-colored Belgian is lesser known than others because of its rarity and irregular patterning, making it stand out from other breeds.

It is exceptional since brindle color is not an integral trait. For example, a Malinois dog is born with a brindle coat, and other working breeds, such as Dutch Shepherds, where this trait is more prevalent and seen in their natural state.

It is easy to see how the Belgian Malinois can become brindled. It happens to be a direct result of their distant ancestry.

The Malinois is a mixture of brindle dog breeds, such as Belgian Malinois and others like the German Shepherd. If the distant ancestors of the Malinois were mixed-breed, they might exhibit brindle coats.

Belgian Malinois Colors Explained
Fawn Sable Belgian Malinois

Belgian Malinois Coat Genetics

The Belgian Malinois is renowned for its striking appearance, but many people do not know how this color scheme came about. The reasons behind the different colors of a Belgian Malinois can be complicated, with so much to go into detail about. I will try, though!

The main reason these dogs have their unique appearance from other breeds, like German Shepherds, is genetics. Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of the two colors; Belgian Malinois are known for their variety.

One gene in particular called the agouti locus, causes genes responsible for fur coloring during the development stage to change depending on which variant you inherit, meaning there are three possible combinations: light-coated dominant (L), dark-coated recessive (a), or mixed one intermediate between both extremes (b).

The process of how a dog’s fur colors are made is very complex, but it all starts with their bodies producing two different types of pigment: Eumelanin and Pheomanine. These chemicals change based on their dilution or concentration, resulting in black, brown, and red shades.

The potential of the main color for Belgian Malinois can be magnified through alleles and dilution genes.

When you buy a dog with a specific color in mind, breeding it for that reason is not always recommended. If the only goal of mating two dogs together is to produce offspring with certain colors, then there are better ways to do so than selecting poorly-mated pairs and risking their health or sacrificing other qualities like vitality.

Breeding dogs can be more complicated than picking out whichever pup has your favorite fur shade. Sometimes breeders mate one dog from each side (female x male) specifically because they want them both to have different traits, such as eye shape or height, which would otherwise result from accidental matings during normal reproduction cycles.

However, this is not advised because it can lead to a breeder’s limited choices, and specific breeding goals could be lost.

Belgian Malinois Colors Explained
Belgian Malinois Colors Explained

Is there any Change in Color pattern When Puppies of Belgian Malinois Grow up?

Belgian Malinois puppies are easy to identify because their color never changes. Belgian Malinois dogs never change colors over time like other pups, and the shade of a puppy is forced by its genes, which means it will always stay that way.

Belgian Malinois are born with various colors, such as black, fawn, and red; they can’t magically turn into another color. The color of the dog’s coat may become lighter or darker as they mature, but their individual markings and patterns will stay largely unchanged.

The changes that occur in dogs’ coats when maturing are not limited to shade variation; this natural process can also lead to darkening if well-lit conditions have been scarce during periods of growth.

Belgian Malinois can develop a shinier and thicker coat in their fully grown stage, but this will not change their beautiful hair color, which ranges from light brown to black, depending on the individual’s breeding lines.

Belgian Malinois Colors Explained
Fawn Sable Belgian Malinois

Summing up

The Belgian Malinois is one of 4 breeds of Belgian shepherd dogs. He’s also a great dog for police and military work. People commonly mistake him for a German Shepherd, but he‘s lighter-boned and has a more elegant build. He still has agility, strength, and good herding ability. He was developed first in Malines and is related to the Belgian Shepherd Tervuren and Belgian Sheepdog. He’s the most popular sheepdog in Belgium.

The Belgian Malinois is a hardworking, intelligent Belgian Shepherd dog breed with an outgoing personality. They are loyal to their owners and can be trained for protection work or as police. There are 12 Belgian Malinois  5 standard colors (Fawn sable, Fawn, Red, Mahogany, and red sable) and seven non-standard colors.

He’s easy to train and is highly intelligent. He likes regular activities and is easy to care for because of his short or medium coat. He loves his family and is naturally protective but will be wary of strangers. He actively performs in obedience, conformation, sledding, and tracking events. His color varies from mahogany to fawn; he has black tips on his ears and hair and a black mask. He’s 22-26 inches tall.

However, remember that no matter what color Belgian Malinois has, he deserves much care and love from you.

Copyright CaninePals.Com. All Rights Reserved.

References and Further Reading:

[1] American Kennel Club, Belgian Malinois Information.

Complete Belgian Malinois Colors, Patterns and Pictures
Complete Belgian Malinois Colors, Patterns and Pictures
Belgian Tervuren vs Belgian Malinois

Belgian Tervuren vs Malinois: Key Differences and Similarities

The Belgian Tervuren and the Belgian Malinois are two prevalent breeds of dogs. Both breeds are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and trainability. While they may look similar at first glance, there are some significant differences between these breeds. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Belgian Tervuren vs Belgian Malinois, highlighting the key differences and similarities between these two popular breeds.

The Belgian Tervuren and Belgian Malinois are two of the most popular dog breeds in Belgium. Both breeds are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and protective nature. So, which breed is right for you? Read on to learn more about them.

Belgian Shepherd Dogs And Their Varieties

The Belgian Shepherd is a versatile herding dog that excels in many different roles. There are four recognized varieties of the breed: the Tervuren, Malinois, Groenendael, and Laekenois. All four varieties are similar in many ways, but there are also some key differences between them.

Since the Tervuren and Malinois are the more popular breeds among the four, this article will be focusing on Belgian Tervuren Vs Belgian Malinois.

Belgian Tervuren vs Belgian Malinois
Belgian Shepherd Dogs: Belgian Tervuren vs Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Tervuren

The Tervuren is the most popular of the four Belgian shepherd dogs varieties and is known for being an intelligent and versatile dog. It is often used in police and military work and in agility, obedience, and tracking trials.

They’re muscular with longer necks and have square-shaped heads with erect ears. Their double-layered coat makes them look more prominent with a dense outer coat and a softer undercoat.

Tervuren comes in various colors, including black, fawn, mahogany, and brindle. The breed is intelligent, alert, and responsive to training.

The Belgian Tervuren is a large-sized dog, with males standing at 26 inches tall and females at 24 inches tall and weighing between 60-75 pounds. It has a thick double coat that is black with mahogany highlights. Being an active dog, Tervuren requires plenty of exercise and stimulation. If you are looking for a loyal and intelligent companion, Tervuren is the perfect dog.

The Belgian Malinois

Let’s talk about the other popular Belgian Shepherd now – The Malinois. They are larger than the Tervuren and are very active and energetic. They are also very intelligent but slightly difficult to train. The Malinois is often used as a working dog in police and military work, as well as search and rescue, herding, and obedience.

The breed standard lists the ideal height for a Belgian Malinois as 24-26 inches (61-66 cm) for males and 22-24 inches (56-61 cm) for females. In addition, males typically weigh between 65 and 75 pounds, while females usually weigh between 60 and 70 pounds.

Despite their many positive qualities, Belgian Malinois can also be quite stubborn and headstrong, so they require owners who are willing to put in the time and effort to train them properly.

History

The Belgian Tervuren

The Belgian Tervuren is a relatively new breed, having only been developed in the late 1800s. They were named after a village called Tervuren.

Belgian Tervuren dogs were originally bred as working dogs on farms and villages, but they quickly became popular as companion dogs and family pets. Today, Belgian Tervuren are still used as working dogs in many different capacities, but they are also widely loved as family pets.

The Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois is a herding dog that originated in Belgium. The breed was originally used for guarding sheep and cattle. In recent years, the Belgian Malinois has become popular as a working dog in law enforcement and the military.

The Belgian Malinois is a relatively new breed in the United States. The first recorded Belgian Malinois in the United States was imported in 1911. This breed gained popularity in the 1960s when Belgian Malinois was used in movies and television shows.

Interestingly, the dog who played a vital role during Osama Bin Laden’s capture was a Belgian Malinois named Cairo.

Belgian Tervuren
Belgian Tervuren

Belgian Tervuren Vs Belgian Malinois – The Differences

Tervuren is one of two types of Belgian shepherds, the other being the Malinois. Both breeds are similar in many ways, but there are some key differences between them. Let’s get to know the two Belgian Shepherd varieties in detail.

Belgian Tervuren Vs Belgian Malinois – Color

The Belgian Malinois is a dog of many colors, while the Belgian Tervuren can be any shade of fawn to mahogany, with a black mask and black tips on the hair. The coat of a Malinois is short, straight, and harsh, while the Tervuren’s coat is long, dense, and slightly wavy with a thick undercoat.

When it comes to grooming, Malinois requires less maintenance compared to the Tervuren.

Belgian Tervuren Vs Belgian Malinois – Temperament

The Belgian Tervuren is a highly intelligent dog that is very easy to train. They are also very loyal and protective of their family.

In contrast, the Belgian Malinois is also a highly intelligent dog, but they can be more challenging to train. Since they are very active and energetic, you need to have a very active lifestyle to get them accustomed.

If you are looking for a dog that is easy to train and loyal, the Belgian Tervuren is a great choice.

However, if you want a dog that is active and energetic, the Belgian Malinois may be a better choice. Whichever breed you choose, make sure to do your research to know what you’re getting into.

Belgian Tervuren Vs Belgian Malinois – Grooming

The Malinois has a shorter coat than the Tervuren and is easy to groom. The Tervuren’s coat is longer and requires more brushing. Both breeds need to be trimmed around the feet and anus to prevent matting.

Speaking of shedding, the Malinois is an average shedder while the Tervuren sheds moderately. Neither breed is considered hypoallergenic.

The Malinois is an active Belgian shepherd breed that needs a lot of exercise. The Tervuren is also active, but not to the same extent as the Malinois. Both breeds are intelligent and easy to train. However, the Malinois is better suited for protection work, while the Tervuren excels at herding.

Belgian Tervuren
Belgian Tervuren

Belgian Tervuren Vs Belgian Malinois – Appearance

The Belgian Malinois is a large-sized Belgian shepherd dog that is very similar in appearance to the German Shepherd. The main difference between the two breeds is that the Belgian Malinois has a shorter coat and a more square-shaped head.

The Belgian Tervuren is also a large breed of dog originally bred in Belgium. The most notable difference between the Tervuren and the Malinois is that the Tervuren has a long, thick coat that can be either black or brown.

Both of these breeds are intelligent and loyal. Still, the Belgian Tervuren is more often used as a companion dog and is better suited for families with children since it is easier to train compared to the Malinois.

Belgian Tervuren Vs Belgian Malinois – Lifespan

Tervuren tends to live around 12 years, while Malinois has a lifespan of around 14 years. However, health, environment, and nutrition factors play a vital role in determining their lifespans.

Belgian Tervuren Vs Belgian Malinois – Health

Both of these breeds are generally healthy dogs when it comes to health. However, the Tervuren Belgian sheepdog is more prone to hip dysplasia than the Malinois. Furthermore, they can suffer from elbow dysplasia as well.

Both Belgian sheepdog dog breeds are also susceptible to eye problems such as progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts.

Overall, the Tervuren is a slightly healthier breed than the Malinois, but both breeds can live long and healthy lives with proper care.

Belgian Tervuren Vs Belgian Malinois – Which Breed Adapts More Easily?

The Tervuren is more versatile and can do well in various settings, including urban and rural areas. They are also generally more easygoing than the Malinois and can be better suited for families with children.

On the other hand, Malinois are a bit stubborn and aggressive. Getting him accustomed to an apartment or a small home can be challenging since it requires a bigger space to roam around and exercise.

All in all, both breeds require plenty of exercise and stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

Belgian Malinois
Belgian Malinois

Belgian Tervuren Vs Belgian Malinois – Who Is More Prone To Separation Anxiety?

Belgian Tervuren is more prone to separation anxiety than Belgian Malinois. This may be because the Belgian Tervuren are bred as working dogs and have a strong need for companionship and purpose.

Belgian Malinois, on the other hand, are bred as guard dogs and may be less likely to experience separation anxiety because they are more independent. Ultimately, it is up to the owner to provide structure and training to help their dog cope with separation anxiety.

Diet

Belgian Tervuren

The Belgian Tervuren is a very active dog breed that needs a lot of exercise. They are also very intelligent and need to be given tasks to keep them mentally stimulated. For these reasons, it is crucial to choose a diet that will give them the energy they need without being too high in calories.

There are a few things to consider when choosing a diet for your Belgian Tervuren. The first is the ratio of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Belgian Tervurens need a higher protein diet than most other dogs because they are very active. They also need a higher fat diet to keep their coat healthy.

The second thing to consider is the type of food. Belgian Tervurens do best on a diet of dry kibble or canned food. They can also eat raw meat, but it is vital to ensure that the meat is lean and free of any bones.

The third thing to consider is the amount of food. Belgian Tervurens need more food than most other dogs because of their high activity level. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that they get enough food, but not too much.

If you keep these things in mind, you will be able to choose a diet that is perfect for your Belgian Tervuren. Choose a food with the proper proteins, fats, and carbohydrates ratio.

Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois is a high-energy dog breed that requires a lot of exercise. Therefore, a diet for Belgian Malinois should be designed to meet their high energy needs. The dietary need of Malinois is quite similar to Tervuren – protein, fats, and a carb-rich diet.

When choosing food for your Belgian Malinois, look for a formula that is high in protein and fat. This will help to keep them lean and muscular. Belgian Malinois are also prone to allergies, so make sure the food you choose is free of common allergens.

Similarities Between Belgian Tervuren and Belgian Malinois

Some of the similarities between Belgian Tervuren and Belgian Malinois include their need for physical activity, their intelligence, and their pride. Both breeds also require a lot of space to live in and do best when part of a family or group.

The food requirement of both breeds is almost the same. You need to divide their diet among protein, carbs, and fat-containing foods.

Lastly, both Tervuren and Malinois are affectionate and protective of those they love. While there are many similarities between these two breeds, there are also some essential differences that potential owners should be aware of.

Belgian Malinois
Belgian Malinois

FAQS

1. Belgian Tervuren Vs Belgian shepherd: Which is the better fit for you?

There are a few key things to consider when choosing between these two breeds. First, think about your lifestyle and whether or not you’ll have enough time to commit to regular grooming sessions. These breeds require significant amounts of brushing and combing, so if you’re not up for that, you may want to choose a different breed.

Secondly, consider your living situation. If you live in an apartment or other small space, a Belgian Tervuren may not be the best fit as they require a lot of exercise and space to run around. However, they would likely be very happy if you have a large backyard or access to a park or other open area.

On the other hand, Belgian Shepherds are a bit more versatile and can do well in both small and large spaces. So, take some time to consider your lifestyle and living situation before deciding.

2. What is the German shepherd Belgian Tervuren mix?

The German Shepherd Belgian Tervuren mix is a cross between the German Shepherd and the Belgian Tervuren. These two breeds are both known for their loyalty, intelligence, and working ability, so it’s no surprise that their offspring would inherit these qualities. This mix is an excellent choice for families looking for a protective yet loving companion.

3. What are the differences And Similarities between a German shepherd and a Belgian Tervuren?

When choosing a German Shepherd or a Belgian Tervuren, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Both breeds are intelligent, loyal, and protective, but they have distinct differences.

Differences – German Shepherd Vs Belgian Tervuren?

The most apparent difference between these two breeds is their size. German Shepherds are significantly larger than Belgian Tervurens, weighing in at an average of 75-95 pounds compared to the Tervuren’s 60-75 pound range. But size isn’t the only difference. German Shepherds are also known for their black and brown coats, while the Tervuren’s coat is a striking shade of mahogany.

Similarities – German Shepherd Vs Belgian Tervuren?

Despite their differences, these two breeds do have some things in common. Both are intelligent, loyal, and protective of their families. They are also versatile breeds that excel in various activities, from obedience and agility to herding and tracking.

If you’re still undecided about which breed is right for you, the best way to make a decision is to meet both breeds in person. Seeing them side-by-side will help you better understand which one is the perfect fit for your family.

Final Words on Belgian Shepherd Dog Breeds: Belgian Tervuren vs Malinois

The final verdict is that Belgian Tervuren is the better breed as they’re more pet friendly.

Furthermore, they are smarter, more trainable, and have a higher success rate when bonding with a family.

Belgian Malinois are also great dogs, but they tend to be more aggressive and less easy to train. And, they require a large space to live and roam freely. So, if you have a small apartment, then a malinois will have a hard time adjusting.

If you’re looking for a loyal, intelligent, friendly, and hardworking dog, then the Belgian Tervuren is your breed.

Copyright CaninePals.Com. All Rights Reserved.

References and Further Reading:

[1] American Kennel Club, Belgian Malinois Information.

Is The Belgian Malinois Aggressive?

Is The Belgian Malinois Aggressive? Find Out The Facts

Is the Belgian Malinois dog aggressive or not? From their build to their needs, here’s a complete guide you need to see and learn about Belgian Malinois behavior and possible Malinois puppy aggression before buying one as a pet or a working companion.

When you are buying a dog, one of the most asked questions is regarding their aggression. People tend to avoid buying particularly aggressive dogs. So if you are planning to have this breed in your life, then you should know whether the is Belgian Malinois aggressive or not?

As initially bred as herding dogs, these Belgian Malinois dogs were meant to chase and defend their owner and their places; you would still find these aggressive traits in a Belgian Malinois. This breed doesn’t socialize much and needs the training to fix that they might growl and snap in fear or aggression when they see a stranger as they don’t like confronting unfamiliar faces.

Even with other dogs, they don’t get along instantly; you would have to take them to play dates a couple of times a week to make them welcome with other breeds.

Is The Belgian Malinois Aggressive?
Is The Belgian Malinois Aggressive?

Belgian Malinois Breed History

This German Shepherd-type looking dog is also known as the Belgian Shepherd Dog or Belgian Sheepdog. Just like its name Malinois originated from the Malines region in Belgium. Belgian herding dogs come in four different varieties, including Groenendael, Tervuren, Laekenois, and Belgian Malinois as one of them. Belgian Malinois earned fame as a separate breed in 1959.

The Belgian herding dog or Belgian Shepherd Dog breed dates back to the 18th century, 1891, to be exact. The breed was becoming obsolete at the end of the 19th century and was on the verge of getting extinct when Professor Adolphe Reul formed a club called Club de Chien Berger Belge to save this type of breed. Along with his team, Professor Adolphe worked extensively to preserve this breed by standardizing them into distinct ranges.

Belgian Malinois gained massive popularity when they accompanied the Belgian Army in World war 1 to find wounded soldiers who went missing during the warfare. Belgian Malinois are pretty famous among Army Personnel for assisting them during wartimes and capturing criminals during the attack. They are used by security forces of various countries as detection dogs or assistant dogs in departments like customs, police forces, military, and border guards.

Belgian Malinois is the dog who got wounded while chasing the ISIS leader when he exploded himself with a suicide bomb. This Malinois named Cannon was honored as a national hero for his bravery, and it gave a boost to the demand for this breed.

Belgian Malinois Behavior

They are high-energy, intelligent, and very active dogs. The Belgian Malinois dog is usually intelligent, has an athletic build, and is a very muscular dog breed. They can be great pets since they are very watchful, alert, and protective.

This dog breed is extremely energetic, and they are not given enough time to exercise and play. They might develop habits like separation anxiety, excessive barking, and chewing due to boredom.
Belgian Malinois were initially bred as herding dogs.

Their trainability and persistence made these dogs one of the finest to assist as police and military dogs. They tend to learn new skills very quickly; they are very eager to respond to their masters, which makes them suitable for rescue operations, bomb detection, and drug-sniffing.

Belgian Malinois Aggression

This breed is famous for its strong prey drive, making them aggressive and dangerous for other dogs, other pets, and young kids at home. They get really aggressive when they are not exercised which makes them not much suitable for a home environment where the owner works for long hours.

Is The Belgian Malinois Dangerous?

They are extremely playful and can’t do well in boredom. All these things play a key role in making a Belgian Malinois aggressive. Belgian Malinois aggression is something that makes it difficult to live with other animals, especially with non-canine animals. They should be kept separated by a fence from other animals to avoid any mishap. However, they can do well in the home as pets if trained properly.

Malinois Puppy Aggression

Puppy kindergarten and obedience training classes are great for Belgian Malinois as puppies. If they are not properly trained as puppies, then they can be dangerous and even aggressive towards humans and other dogs. They also don’t get along with strangers easily.

It’s imperative to make these puppies socialize from an early age. It would help them to welcome unfamiliar faces and dogs; this age is also the time when you would notice aggressive tendencies in this breed.

Is The Belgian Malinois Aggressive?
Is The Belgian Malinois Aggressive?

Belgian Malinois as Working Dogs

Belgian Malinois is generally considered the best dog breed as guard and protector and is primarily known as a proactive working dog. They are highly skilled dogs with a greater instinct which makes them the most celebrated police dogs in the world. Most of the security personnel around the world are keen to have Belgian Malinois onboard for rescue projects.

Can a Malinois be a Good Pet?

If this breed is given a suitable environment, they can be great family pets as they are known as protective dogs, loveable, devoted, and loyal. As we have discussed earlier, a Belgian Malinois temperament requires a committed training plan and strenuous exercises.

If they are not provided with these things at home, then they can get bored and will become very challenging to handle. Although they are one of the most desirable pets, first-time dog owners must know one thing: Malinois are intense dogs, and they need a lot of attention and care, so they are not recommended as family pets.

However, if they are trained well, they can be very playful and love taking part in family activities. They can assist you in any of the outdoor chores as they love playing and doing outside activities.

Living Space Requirements

If you are going to own a dog for the first time, then this breed is not suitable for you as they are pretty active dogs and want proper care to play and exercise. These exercises and training cannot be done in confined places like apartments, so they need open places with a play yard to live in a home environment.

Appearance

Belgian Malinois are mid-sized to large dogs with moderate weight. They are usually fawn to mahogany in color with a black overlay and face mask. They are square proportioned dogs with oval-shaped bones and powerful bodies, which give them an impressive stature.

This breed has double-coats with dense undercoats to resist the rainy climate of their origin country Belgium. They are sharp and are able to read the smallest of movements and facial expressions. A Belgian Malinois is a shedder; it sheds only twice a year but sheds heavily.

Is The Belgian Malinois Aggressive?
Is The Belgian Malinois Aggressive?

Height and Weight

These dogs are generally 22 to 26 inches tall, the male breed is 24 to 26 inches long, and females are 22 to 24 inches tall. A Belgian Malinois dog’s weight varies from 40 to 80 pounds in males and females, respectively, which makes them 18 to 27 kilograms.

How Long does a Belgian Malinois Live?

The Belgian Malinois lives a healthy and longer life compared to the other mid-sized dogs. They live an average life of 10 to 12 years. Some lucky and healthy ones may live a couple of more years.

Belgian Malinois Health

Malinois are usually healthy dogs, but like other dog breeds, they are also prone to some health issues. Following are the diseases that are common in this breed.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy:

This is a very common health condition in this breed in which the dogs lose the photoreceptors present in the back of the eyes, due to which they may face blindness. It is a degenerative eye disorder that happens due to aging and results in damaging central vision. The good part is that dogs have pretty strong other senses, which help them live a happy life even with blindness.

Sensitive to Anesthesia:

The most common health condition in Belgian Malinois is their sensitivity to anesthesia. They are very sensitive to anesthesia due to the muscle to fat ratio. The death rate in Malinois is on the higher side when the anesthesia is applied to them. So make your vet aware of his sensitivity before he opts for some surgery.

Is The Belgian Malinois Aggressive?
Is The Belgian Malinois Aggressive?

Elbow Dysplasia:

This is also a common health issue in mid-sized and large dog breeds. This is caused by the abnormal formation of the three bones that makes elbow joints in the dogs, which results in restlessness and severe pain. Your Malinois may lose movement due to pain if they are not suggested medication for pain reduction. However, this is a curable condition that can be cured by surgery.

Hip Dysplasia:

Just like most mid-sized dogs, Hip dysplasia is a common health condition in Malinois as well. It is a heritable condition; the dogs with hip dysplasia face constant discomfort, which results in lameness and excruciating pain. This is a condition when the thigh bone does not fit properly in the hip socket; this may also develop arthritis in the dogs as they age.

Obesity:

Obesity in Belgian Malinois is one significant health condition. The excessive weight gain in Malinois triggers more diseases in this breed like severe joint issues, digestive and metabolic disorders, heart diseases, and back pain. So as a caregiver, you are suggested not to give more than the diet which is appropriate for your Malinois. Maintaining discipline while feeding them is very important as it reduces the chance of becoming obese.

Is The Belgian Malinois Aggressive?
Is The Belgian Malinois Aggressive?

Care Tips for Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois is usually a low-maintenance breed; it does not require much grooming. However, they should be bathed as frequently as once a week.

To maintain their healthy skin and coats, frequent brushing is also suggested, but during the shedding season, the brushing of a Malinois should be a daily ritual. As Malinois is a double-coated breed and has dense undercoats, it is recommended to brush them with a dryer to remove dirt and grime before taking them to bathe.

Nail trimming, ear cleaning, and proper nail care are also suggested for these dogs once a week for a healthy routine.

Maintaining healthy dental hygiene is also essential for this breed; they need to be brushed at least 2 to 3 times a week with canine toothpaste as human toothpaste can be harmful to them if they swallow it.

Malinois Puppy
Malinois Puppy

Cost of Belgian Malinois

This most desirable and extremely attractive dog is an expensive breed. An active Malinois can cost you as much as $3500 to $9000, as the purebred dog is usually worth more. It also depends on the availability of the breed in the vicinity.

A Belgian Malinois may cost more in the USA as compared to its native country Belgium. A puppy of this breed may cost you around $2500 to $3000.

The price of this dog depends completely on its lineage and training. However, the adult and fully trained Malinois can range up from a whopping $45000 to $65000 because these dogs are known as national heroes.

Is The Belgian Malinois Aggressive?
Is The Belgian Malinois Aggressive?

Summing Up

Belgian Malinois are beautiful herding dogs; they are extremely energetic and friendly if they are given proper socialization training at a young age. A properly socialized Belgian Malinois is a joy to own. They can be great pets also due to their brilliant watchdog skills and their loyalty and protectiveness.

However, if they are not trained well at an early age and introduced to different people, other dogs, and animals, then it can get difficult for you to keep this breed at home. You should only purchase a Malinois if you are one of those individuals who are experienced in dealing with such dogs who crave activities and can invest significant amounts of time in providing them with such exercises.

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References and Further Reading:

[1] American Kennel Club, Belgian Malinois Information.