6 Belgian Shepherd Malinois Dog Breeds Information, Facts, Traits 2022

6 Belgian Shepherd Malinois Dog Breeds Information, Facts, Traits 2022

The Malinois is one of four kinds of Belgian Banks, the others being the Groenendael (long-haired black), the Laekenois (rough-haired) and the Tervueren (long-haired fawn). If these three Belgian Shepherds have very different appearances, at first sight, the Malinois is only one variety among the others! A medium-sized dog, it is recognizable thanks to its black mask and its slender gaits reminiscent of those of the wolf.

The Malinois has great learning abilities: full of liveliness and intelligence; it is the ideal working and guard dog. It is also widely used by the police. He must have an attentive and present master capable of ensuring his education fairly but firmly.

• Height: 58 to 62 cm
• Weight: 25 to 35 kg
• Hair: short
• Colour: fawn to brown
• Life expectancy: 12 to 14 years
• Gestation: about 63 days

Description and characteristics of the Belgian ShepherdMalinois

The Belgian Shepherd Malinois is a dog with harmonious physical proportions, reminiscent of the German Shepherd, but its profile is more slender and its pace lighter. Its pointed snout and straight ears, triangular in shape, and its face with a black mask give it a unique expression. His eyes, dark brown, have a lively and cunning gaze.

Its tawny coat, which can have shades of charcoal grey to brown, contrasts with the head and limbs, which are darker in colour, and the mask is always black. The tail is thin and carried low and should be kept whole as indicated by the breed standard. He is very alert, even nervous, in nature; this can be seen in his slender and muscular appearance. The body is solid and secure on its legs, ready to pounce.

Origins of the Belgian Malinois breed

The history of the Malinois is relatively recent: it was not until the 1900s that the type and temperament of the Belgian Shepherd were clearly defined. However, there have been in Belgium for a century already several sheepdogs with varied morphologies, among which existed the ancestors of the Malinois.

At the end of the 19th century, the cynophile group of Professor Adolphe Reul, a veterinarian, had the initiative to select some of these dogs, then known simply as “country shepherd dogs”: the winners were the four types of Shepherd Belgian we know today (see above). The “Belgian Shepherd Dog Club” was born and worked to organize the Belgian canine genetic heritage, refining and setting the first standard in 1892. The first Belgian Shepherds were registered with the LOOF in 1901; in 1909, the Malinois was officially recognized.

Character and behaviour of the Malinois

The Malinois is a very devoted, lively, protective dog, making it the ideal working dog. Cunning, loving to learn, you will never make him happier than by offering obedience sessions: he loves to satisfy his master by performing various tasks and tricks.

He is a good companion for the whole family, but he needs a “reference” person who will be able to encourage his thirst for challenge, take him outside, share his sports activities… If these learning abilities are exceptional, which will facilitate his education, it must be firm and constant because he can also be dominant. It is also essential to start socializing early to prevent certain situations where your Malinois could be tempted to defend you.

Taking care of your Malinois

The Shepherd Malinois is not a constraining dog on the maintenance side. Its short coat only requires weekly or even bi-monthly brushing. You can polish your hair from time to time with a horsehair glove to restore all its shine. It is not necessary to wash it often; on the contrary, it is recommended not to exceed two baths per year. On the other hand,

your Malinois will require a lot of attention from you in terms of physical activity: life in an apartment is not made for him unless you take him for walks several times a day, in a park or the countryside so that he can spend himself. His overflowing energy must be channelled through play and training sessions at home or during canine sports activities supervised by a club: agility, tracking.

Malinois diet

The food of the Belgian Shepherd Malinois must be of good quality and adapted to its degree of physical activity; as a sports dog, his ration must provide him with enough protein and carbohydrates. If he does not exert himself much, he can be given industrial kibble in sufficient quantity, according to his weight, on the veterinarian’s advice.

It is recommended to split the daily ration of the Malinois into two meals: indeed, like many large dogs, Belgian Shepherds are prone to stomach upsets. Therefore, the chosen food should be very digestible, and any sport or stressful situation should be avoided before the meal. Finally, the Malinois must always have access to a bowl of fresh water.

Health and pathologies of the Malinois

The Malinois is not affected by any particular pathology, and his eyes and ears do not require special maintenance: regular monitoring is sufficient. You can clean the corners of the eyes with a wet cotton ball and the pavilion of the ears. It is a robust and rustic dog whose ancestors were accustomed to outdoor life. 

Suppose you practice a sporting activity with your Malinois. In that case, a warm-up is required before practice, especially during growth, to protect his joints: very energetic, he tends not to feel his limits, and it is difficult for him to save his efforts.

Price of a Malinois puppy

The price of a Malinois puppy will depend on the sex, the parents’ pedigree, compliance with breed standards, etc.

• Price of a male Malinois: 400 to 1200€
• Price of a female Malinois: 450 to 1200€

Belgian Shepherd Malinois: 8 things to know about this breed of dog

You may be wondering if your Belgian Shepherd Malinois needs a bed to sleep in. The answer is yes. Most large dogs have a particular tendency: joint pain that appears with age. Many large dogs, and therefore Malinois, develop general joint problems, such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia and osteoarthritis. In addition, old age and weight gain place increasing stress on the joints and spinal cord, which increases the risk of developing these problems.

BEST BASKETS FOR BELGIAN SHEPHERD MALINOIS: TOP 6 WINTER

The Malinois, therefore, are interested in benefiting from a quality dog ​​bed. Indeed, the quality baskets serve as insulation against a cold floor. They cushion joints and bones from hard floors. The soft support gives a psychological feeling of comfort and security – a place of their own to relax and sleep. And for your benefit, sleeping in the same place each night helps collect the dog’s hair in one place, making cleaning easier.

We’ve put together a list of high-quality malinois beds and a buying guide with additional information on bed styles, fabrics, supports, covers, and sizes.

SUMMARY :

• THE 5 BEST BASKETS FOR BELGIAN SHEPHERD MALINOIS – WINTER
• 1 – RECTANGULAR BASKET WITH RAISED EDGES FOR MALINOIS
• 2 – ORTHOPEDIC BASKET FOR MALINOIS DOG
• 3 – REMOVABLE AND RESISTANT BASKET FOR BELGIAN SHEPHERD MALINOIS
• 4 – COMFORTABLE AND WASHABLE BASKET FOR MALINOIS
• 5 – HIGH-END XXL BASKET FOR BELGIAN SHEPHERD MALINOIS
• 6 – SHAPE MEMORY MATTRESS FOR MALINOIS
• PRACTICAL GUIDE FOR CHOOSING YOUR BASKET FOR BELGIAN SHEPHERD MALINOIS
• CONCLUSION

THE 6 BEST BASKETS FOR BELGIAN SHEPHERD MALINOIS – WINTER 2021

The following baskets are our top picks for Malinois but can also accommodate larger dogs like Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers. We’ve divided the beds into categories to make it easier for you to decide which one is best for your dog.

1 – RECTANGULAR BASKET WITH RAISED EDGES FOR MALINOIS

This dog bed is very popular with Malinois or German Shepherds because it offers a large resting surface, as well as raised peripheral edges that promote the feeling of security.

This quality bedding has a waterproof inner lining to protect the interior foam. The outer cover is also waterproof to protect against water, drool or urine and make cleaning easier.

The bottom has a non-slip surface so that the bed does not slide when your dog gets up or lies down.

ADVANTAGES OF THIS BASKET FOR RECTANGULAR MALINOIS

• Quality basket, resistant and durable
•  
• Easy to maintain waterproof coating
•  
• Non-slip bottom
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• Large sleeping area for an adult malinois
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• Thick padding for maximum comfort
•  
• Machine washable

 SIZE RANGE: 95 and 120cm in length

2 – ORTHOPEDIC BASKET FOR MALINOIS DOG

As we mentioned above, the Belgian Shepherd Malinois is subject to various joint problems which can handicap him more or less seriously.

This orthopaedic basket for dogs will greatly limit the appearance of these problems, thanks to its memory foam support.

Its design shape and its reversible cushion will look great in your interior.

Its solid and durable OXFORD fabric covering will easily withstand the onslaught of the claws of your favourite pet.

ADVANTAGES OF THIS ORTHOPEDIC BASKET

• Resistant and durable bedding
•  
• Reversible cover
•  
• Memory foam filling
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• Waterproof OXFORD fabric cover
•  
• Indoor or outdoor use
•  
• Easy maintenance
•  
• Three sizes are available for a puppy or adult Malinois

 SIZE RANGE: 65, 85 and 110cm in length

3 – REMOVABLE AND RESISTANT BASKET FOR BELGIAN SHEPHERD MALINOIS

This dog bed model is practical because it is resistant and offers easy maintenance thanks to its removable structure, which allows regular machine washing.

It is made of waterproof OXFORD fabric with a very soft and fluffy cashmere sleeping area for your Malinois.

The thick filling ensures good support to the body during sleep, promoting relaxation and recovery.

ADVANTAGES OF THIS REMOVABLE AND RESISTANT BASKET

• Solid and durable design
•  
• Waterproof OXFORD fabric cover
•  
• Soft and soothing sleeping area
•  
• Raised edges for a sense of security
•  
• Suitable for puppy or adult malinois
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• Completely removable for maintenance
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• Firm and resilient filling

 SIZE RANGE: 70 and 90cm in length

4 – COMFORTABLE AND WASHABLE BASKET FOR MALINOIS

We still have here a very comfortable basket for your favourite Malinois! Good night’s sleep in perspective if you offer it to your pup!

Its construction is solid and robust with a high-quality CORDURA fabric covering.

The sleeping area is made of extremely soft and fluffy velvet. Your dog will experience a lot of wellbeing but also peace and security when he basks in it.

This comfortable basket also has a removable cover, which means it can be washed regularly by hand or in the washing machine to offer your pet an always clean bed.

ADVANTAGES OF THIS COMFORTABLE AND WASHABLE BASKET

• Comfortable and cosy
•  
• Strength and quality of Cordura fabric
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• Sleeping area in extra soft velour
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• Slightly raised periphery
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• Removable basket, easy to clean

 SIZE RANGE: from 55 to 100cm in length

5 – HIGH-END XXL BASKET FOR BELGIAN SHEPHERD MALINOIS

Here is one of the best malinois baskets that can be found on the WEB today!

Its quality, comfort and durability outclass the competition with a neat design. He has it all!

Its filling is almost orthopaedic material, ensuring excellent support, even for a large dog.

The outer covering is made of robust fabric, which can withstand the aggressions of canines, even the largest dogs.

The largest model measures 1.30m and will provide refuge and rest for the largest pets, whether lying down or curled up, whatever the sleeping style.

ADVANTAGES OF THIS XXL BEDDING

• Firmness, ideal for large older and arthritic dogs
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• Modern and neat design
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• Resistant coating 
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• Removable inner cushion
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• Washable, easy care
•  
• Wide lying surface for large dogs

 SIZE RANGE: 110 and 130cm in length

6 – SHAPE MEMORY MATTRESS FOR MALINOIS

The last model we are studying is a little different because its periphery is free and has a bolster improving the general comfort offered to your Belgian Shepherd.

The memory foam that fills this mattress offers very good support and will be suitable for old or sick animals.

This type of bedding will be perfect for an animal that likes to sleep lying down, usually with the legs on the side.

Maintenance is simplified because this mattress is completely removable and can be washed by hand or machine frequently.

ADVANTAGES OF THIS MATTRESS FOR MALINOIS

• Its format, practical and unique
•  
• The bolster provides comfort and support for the dog
•  
• Firm, orthopaedic memory foam filling
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• The removable cover for easy maintenance
•  
• The softness of the sleeping area is very pleasant for the Malinois dog.

 SIZE RANGE: 90x70cm and 105x90cm

PRACTICAL GUIDE FOR CHOOSING YOUR BASKET FOR BELGIAN SHEPHERD MALINOIS

Does buying the ideal bed for your dog seem complicated? Do you feel like there are so many choices on the market that you don’t know what to buy? Worried about spending a lot of Money on a bed your Malinois might not like? Take a deep breath. We are here to help you. We’ve put together this buying guide to tell you important things to consider when buying a basket for your Belgian Shepherd Malinois or another large dog. If you read this step-by-step guide and select the options that best suit your dog’s characteristics and habits, you’ll find the perfect bed!

Consider Your Dog’s Sleeping Habits

Does he sleep all night? Does he have a special place in the house where he sleeps? He might appreciate sleeping there. Does he take naps throughout the day? He might appreciate a bed in his usual nap spot. Not only do you need to think about what type of basket to buy, but also where you will place it in your home.

Consider the shape and style of the basket.

The shapes of dog beds vary from rectangular or oval to circular or square. Circular (also called round) and square beds are often unsuitable for large dogs because they are not long enough. Large dogs will often prefer rectangular and oval beds, 

We recommend an orthopaedic basket for a Belgian Malinois, even from a young age. Supporting his joints as early as possible reduces the risk of dysplasia when he’s older. Other large dogs tend to prefer mattresses and beds with raised edges. These styles give them the most support and room to stretch.

Set the size of the basket your dog needs

To do this:

1. Could you measure your dog when he is standing?
2. Measure his height at the shoulder.
3. Measure its length from the tip of its snout to the base of its tail.

These are the minimum dimensions your dog needs for his bed. We recommend buying a bed slightly larger than these minimum measurements so he can stretch out as much as he wants.

Observe your pet’s sleeping position

Check on your dog several times a night or while he is napping during the day. What is his sleeping position? Does he often sleep in the same position? Is it curled up or lying down?

Dog sleeping positions most often fall into one of four categories:

• In a ball: curled up, head turned backwards, nose tucked under the tail.
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• Slumped: Lying on your stomach with your legs straight, chin resting on your paws or the ground.
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• Lie on your side, legs straight, head on the ground.
•  
• Belly up: lying on your back with your legs up.

Animals that sleep in a ball prefer rectangular or oval beds, while a dog mattress is more appropriate for other positions.

Take into account the ease of maintenance of the bedding.

Malinois are known to shed quite a bit, especially during seasonal changes when they shed their undercoat. Although the breed is not known for its smell, you are not immune to insects or pests entering the house through your dog’s coat.

Therefore, choose a dog bed with a removable cover that you can easily unzip and machine wash to make your life easier.

Don’t forget to check the washing instructions. Some covers may not be machine washable.

Consider the level of comfort and support.

Filling the basket is the most important detail. It is the part of the bed that supports your dog’s body and joints. A cheap and poor quality filler will have the same effect as if your puppy was sleeping on the floor.

The most common types of filling are a combination of polyester and foam. High proportions of polyester are often found in inexpensive dog beds. It flattens very easily under the weight of the animal.

Orthopaedic foam is more expensive but also denser and stronger. It will therefore be the preferred solution for an elderly Belgian Shepherd Malinois!

Other things to consider 

First, allergic reactions to fabrics, materials, chemicals, etc., can reduce your options if your dog is sensitive. If so, look for a hypoallergenic bed or one specially made without your dog’s reactive material.

Second, consider the aesthetics of the bed. Does the bed match the room decor of your home? Are the colours of the bed similar to your furniture?

Third, consider the age of your Malinois. If you have a puppy, start with a smaller, less expensive basket for the first six months. He will grow quickly, so don’t spend too much on his first bed. Just make sure it has good support.

And fourth, consider any incontinence issues. If you have a puppy, using sanitary napkins with your dog’s bed may be a good idea until he’s clean. If you have an older dog with incontinence, washable, waterproof bed sheets can be a good idea.

Conclusion

Thank you for taking the time to read our recommendations and buying guide! We hope you find what you are looking for! If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment. But remember that we are not veterinarians, so do not hesitate to consult a professional for any medical questions.

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