Belgian Malinois Dog Breed Profile

by Dr. Chris

AKC Group: Herding Group

This breed is an alert, high energy breed which resembles a German Shepherd but is more elegantly built and lighter boned.

History

Belgian Malinois was originally part of the shepherd dogs developed in Belgium in the 1900ís. The first Malinois was registered and recognized in 1901. In year 1911 the original couple of Belgian Malinios was brought to US so they can grow to be widely known and more popular. In the year 1959-1965 it was placed in a mixed category for unidentified breeds. It was because on a little number of them at the US at that time. In the year 1965, Belgian was gone through the group of working. Since then, Belgian Malinois have been utilized by the FBI and police for detecting and tracking. In 1958 Belgian Malinois were identified by AKC & ever since have been broadly known.

Physical Features

Belgian Malinois usually described as being square shaped because it is longer than tall. It stands 24-26 inches in height and weighs about 55-65 pounds. The Belgianís coat is short, but hard enough to be weather resistant. Its coloring is varied from rich, dark mahogany with white spots to gray and fawn dogs which do not have the white spots; the undercoat is thick. The mask on the ears is black and the ears have the shape of an equilateral triangle. The dog has a sharp, scissor ñ like bite which could be dangerous if used on the wrong thing. The eyes are almond shaped and dark brown. The neck is round and of sufficient length to carry its proud head, and the fur forms a collar. Its front legs are very straight and are parallel to each other. The hind legs are muscular but not thick looking.

Personality

The Belgian demonstrates very much affection to people and loves attention. It is a very playful and loving dog. It wants to play doggy games, run in circles and chase peopleís heels. Tends to want to dominate and be territorial; must be properly trained to socialize.

Common Health Problems

Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, skin allergies, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA); occasional incidences of epilepsy; Torsion Bloat affects some dogs.

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