The Belgian Malinois
The Belgian Malinois
Origins
The Belgian Shepherd Dog, also named Belgian Malinois, Mechelaar, Mechelse Herder (Mechelse Scheper), Pastor Belga Malinois, has its origins in the Belgium areas. They were mainly used as sheep herders and guardians.
Appearance
The Belgian Malinois belongs to the medium dog breed members, with a weight of about 28-33 kg for males and 24-29 kg for females, and a height of 23-25 cm for males and 21-23 for females. It has an athletic body build, sturdy muscular structure, square proportions. The Malinois has a long body, about 55-60 cm at the withers; the head displays long ears that stick up, a straight and pointy muzzle, round brownish eyes. The body coat varies in color from fawn to brownish with areas of black (a mask in the muzzle and eye areas). These fur colors will differ especially because the Belgian Malinois splits in four breeds: the Belgian Shepherd (Malinois), the Groenendael, the Tervuren, the Laekenois.
Grooming
The Belgian Malinois is a seasonal shedder, especially during autumn and spring times. Because most Belgian Malinois are working dogs, they need special attention. When shedding, they need daily basis coat brushing and hair trimming in the legs and pads areas; in the rest of the time, once a week.
Health Facts
This breed’s lifespan is about 9-14 years. The Belgian Malinois can suffer for various health problems, varying from eye problems (cataracts), thyroid problems, pannus (growth of blood vessels into the peripheral cornea).
Temperament and Lifestyle
The Belgian Malinois dogs have an energetic temperament; they are very playful, but maintain a serious and attentive attitude. A proper dog socialization will make them behave really well with other pets and older children. They are very intelligent and may sometimes become overprotective. They can get easily bored so keep them busy. They love exercising and long physical stimulation. Amongst strangers, they can get suspicious. A proper dog training effort will be successful if you reinforce the male-alpha leadership.
One Response to “The Belgian Malinois”
bo - February 24th, 2009
my malinois too frequently sheds hairs abundantly. Does this have to do with some sort of infection? There is almost no scratching. Just constant shedding.
Thanks,
bo
Leave a Reply