Belgian Malinois: Character, Health, Feeding, Price, and Care

Almost every dog is loyal and pet as a companion, but there is something special about the Belgian Malinois. They're excellent herding dogs but can also protect their owners from criminals and search out drugs or bombs with great intelligence on land!

A perfectly-trained Belgian may be just what you need to keep your home safe. These intelligent pooches have been used by law enforcement agencies worldwide because they're so good at sniffing things out when others won't give up until shown proof of criminal activity firsthand (and besides being cute, too!).

Keep reading to learn more about the Belgian Malinois, their basic information, and what it takes to keep one of these pups happy and healthy.

What Is a Belgian Malinois?

The Belgians have a look that's both bold and humble. They're proud dogs, but they don't take themselves too seriously, which makes them perfect for working hard with the cattle on your farm or in search-and-rescue missions where you need an agile partner who won't get distracted by anything.

The breed's proud carriage is evident in their gait, and they have bright eyes similar to dark Belgian chocolates.

The different coat colors range from rich fawn to mahogany; the black ears and mask accentuate these features quite nicely for an elegant appearance like no other.

What Is Belgian Malinois Size?

The average Belgian Malinois is about 22 and 26 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 40-80 pounds. Males are larger than females, but both genders are incredibly strong for their size. This is a medium to large-sized dog, but they're not bulky by any means.

Belgian Malinois: Average Lifespan

A Belgian Malinois can live anywhere from 10-12 years, but some have been known to live up to 14 years with proper care. The Belgian Malinois can live longer when fed a healthy diet and exercised regularly.

How to Take Care of Your Belgian Malinois's Health?

The Belgian Malinois is a relatively healthy breed with few health concerns. However, like all breeds, their most common health problems include hip, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, pannus, and elbow dysplasia, which can be painful and cause lameness. These dogs require minimal attention from their owners.

Here are some tips to keep your Belgian Malinois healthy and happy:

• Give them a balanced diet of high-quality dry food or raw meat. Overall, their diet must consist of at least 25%–30% protein and 10% fat.
• Make sure they get enough exercise - at least an hour a day, up to 80 minutes would be a plus. 30 to 40 minutes of the walk would suffice.
• Don't overdo the bathing; once or twice a month is more than enough.
• Keep them on a leash around other dogs or people, as they can be aggressive if not properly socialized.
• Take them to the vet for regular checkups and vaccinations.
• Keep their nails trimmed and their teeth clean.

What to Feed Your Belgian Malinois?

The Belgium Malinois is a working dog, bred to protect its masters and serve as such. As such, it needs quality food that can provide them with all the nutrients they need for their bodies to survive and thrive.

The dog's age should be considered when creating a meal plan (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are prone to gaining weight, so keep an eye on your dog's calorie intake and weight.

Overall, this breed does best on a high-quality dry kibble that is rich in protein and moderate in fat.

How Much Does a Belgian Malinois Cost?

The price of a Belgian Malinois puppy varies depending on the breeder's reputation, quality of the dogs, and demand. A good-quality Belgian Malinois puppy from a reputable breeder can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $3,500.

Final Thoughts on Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois is an active and intelligent breed that needs a lot of attention, exercise, and mental stimulation. This breed is not for beginner dog owners, who need experienced owners who can provide them with the care they need. However, the Belgian Malinois can be a loyal and loving companion with proper care.