Belgian Shepherd Malinois

Very intelligent, this breed can do well around children and other pets given the proper socialization and activities. Recommended around larger and less passive pets, and older and more respectable children. The Belgian Malinois is very obedient, eager to please and a great working dog.

In Belgium, at the end of the 1800s, there were a great many herding dogs, whose type was varied and whose coats were extremely dissimilar. In order to rationalise this state of affairs, some enthusiastic dog fanciers formed a group and sought guidance from Prof. A. Reul of the Cureghem Veterinary Medical School, whom one must consider to have been the real pioneer and founder of the breed.

The breed was officially born between 1891 and 1897. On September 29th, 1891, the Belgian Shepherd Dog Club (Club du Chien de Berger Belge) was founded in Brussels and in the same year on November 15th in Cureghem, Professor A. Reul organised a gathering of 117 dogs, which allowed him to carry out a return and choose the best specimens. In the following years they began a real programme of selection, carrying out some very close interbreeding involving a few stud dogs.

By April 3rd, 1892, a first detailed breed standard had already been drawn up by the Belgian Shepherd Dog Club. One single breed was allowed, with three coat varieties. However, as was said at the time, the Belgian Shepherd only belonged to ordinary people and therefore the breed still lacked status.

The Malinois is a high-energy dog that needs a lot of exercise. His needs cannot be met with a leisurely walk on leash, and instead needs a good jog or a vigorous play session. He especially enjoys herding. The Malinois needs weekly brushing, more when shedding.

The Belgian Malinois will do well in an apartment environment, if given sufficient exercise. However, it is recommended that this breed have a medium to large yard. A very active breed, regular exercise is necessary.

Malinois need attention, a job or activity, positive training and early socialization.

This shorthaired breed is relatively easy to groom. Regular brushing with a firm bristle brush will remove any excess hair, and keep the coat beautiful. Only bathe when necessary as regular bathing can dry out the skin and coat. A rather light shedder, the Belgian Malinois does shed heavily given the season.

It doesn't require to much grooming of the fur. An occasional brushing, mainly during themoulting period is enough.<br /><br /><strong>Living Conditions</strong>It is used with a lot of exercise in open air. It likes long walks and any other activity that burns its energy. It needs an active master with experience in raising dogs. It needs socialization, training and exercise.<br /><br /><strong>Training</strong>It is not hard to train because it is an obedient dog which learns pretty fast. It is an independent breed with a strong character and that is why they need training from an early age and accustomed to new things, persons and animals. They must not be hit and should be used a gentle tone, but firm. Most of these dogs enjoy ball games, swimming, running beside the bike and long walks. They are successful at agilitycontestsand flyball.

The short coat sheds twice a year with some additional shedding year round. Like many herding breeds, young puppies can be somewhat nippy. Needs to be handled by an experienced owner who can train with consistency and skill. If improperly socialized or tr