Guide Note
The Belgian Malinois is a medium-sized working dog, commonly used for herding or police work. Closely related to the Belgian shepherd, the Malinois is sometimes considered to be a subcategory of the same breed.
Fast Facts
- Life expectancy: 12.5 years
- Highly trainable1
- Requires a great deal of exercise
- Relatively high incidence of epilepsy
- Originally bred in Malines, Belgium
A Solid Bond
Malinois are very sensitive, intelligent dogs that form exceptionally strong attachments to their human companions.2 While most canine lovers will appreciate such devotion, its flip side is the breed's need for sustained attention and possible wariness of strangers. Also, Malinois—particularly younger ones—may experience marked anxiety when not in the presence of their human companions.3
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