Belgian Malinois

Belgický ovčák malinois

Belgian Malinois – front view — Photo: Morganjgonzalez, CC BY-SA 4.0, source

Belgian Malinois – puppy — Photo: Tomás de la Maza, CC BY-SA 4.0, source

Belgian Malinois – head — Photo: SheltieBoy, CC BY 2.0, source

Key facts

FCI group	1. Sheepdogs and Cattle Dogs (except Swiss Cattle Dogs)
Country of origin	Belgium
Category	Large
Height at withers	58–62 cm
Weight	25–30 kg
Life span	12–14 years

Recognition features

Short fawn coat with a black mask and black-tipped hairs
Lighter, finer build than a German Shepherd
Erect ears and proud neck carriage

Purpose

The short-coated Belgian shepherd variety from around Mechelen; today a top police, military and detection dog.

History

Four varieties of Belgian shepherd were standardised in the late 19th century by Prof. Adolphe Reul. The Malinois is named after the city of Mechelen.

Coat

Short dense fawn coat with a black mask.

Similar breeds

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The information is indicative. Texts are based on available sources and may contain inaccuracies; for binding details (e.g. for breeding or shows) use the official breed standard. Report a photo or rights.