Belgian Malinois Breed Profile

Description

The Belgian Malinois is a well balanced, square dog, elegant in appearance with an exceedingly proud carriage of the head and neck. The dog is strong, agile, well muscled, alert, and full of life. He stands squarely on all fours and viewed from the side, the topline, forelegs, and hind legs closely approximate a square. The whole conformation gives the impression of depth and solidity without bulkiness.

Coloring

The basic coloring is a rich fawn to mahogany, with black tips on the hairs giving an overlay appearance. The mask and ears are black.

Temperament

The breed is confident, exhibiting neither shyness nor aggressiveness in new situations. Can be weary of strangers but affectionate with owners. He is naturally protective without being overly aggressive. The Belgian Malinois possesses a strong desire to work and is quick and responsive to commands from his owner.

Origin

The Belgian Malinois is named for the city of Malines, and is one of the four types of Belgian Shepherds. The Malinois type is rare in the United States, but the most popular in its native of Belgium. The breed was established in the late 1890Æs by one man who desperately wanted to create a standard for the Shepherds. In 1951, the AKC decided to break the Belgian Shepherds into the four categories we have today.

Care Level

Easy