Belgian Malinois 101

Name: Belgian Malinois

Personality: As you might expect of the official dog of the United States Secret Service, the Belgian Malinois has an almost unparalleled drive to learn, work and please its owner. As long as it's well-trained, the Malinois is friendly; otherwise, its restlessness might prove destructive. The American Kennel Club describes the Malinois as an "alert, high-energy breed," while the American Belgian Malinois Club Web site says, "Whatever they do, they do to the maximum: whether that be work, play, or just adoring you, their master." Both clubs note that, during its first two years of life, the Belgian Malinois may act even more overly exuberant, goofy, out of control or even emotional.

Grooming: Grooming doesn't present an issue for this breed most of the time. Says ABMC Belgian Malinois Rescue, "Malinois are essentially natural dogs and very low-maintenance. Ears, tail, and dew claws are fine as is; no cropping is necessary. Very little grooming is needed; however, Malinois shed profusely twice a year."

Common Health Issues: Thyroid problems, epilepsy, cataracts, hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy and pannus are all health problems that are associated with the breed, yet overall, the Malinois is considered to have less health issues than its close-looking cousin, the German shepherd. Also, selective breeding has reduced the prevalence of most of these conditions.

Training Tips: The good news is that because of its strong desire to receive rewards and please its owners, the Malinois is one of the easiest breeds to train. The bad news? Training must be a constant throughout a Malinois' life, not just during puppyhood, as the dog possesses an insatiable desire to learn and be challenged. The American Belgian Malinois Club recommends group training for Malinois puppies.

Best For: The American Belgian Malinois Club advises against first-time dog owners adopting one of these dogs, because "while it is extremely trainable, it does not do well with poor or insufficient training." They also note that an ideal Belgian Malinois owner likes doing things that a dog might like to do -- going for a run or a hike, playing games in the backyard, etc. -- and also might like doing such things with her or her dog. In general, only highly active lifestyles should apply. The breed is known to do well with children that have been raised in the household alongside the dog, but because the Malinois can be very quick-acting, a child should never be left alone with one. Cold-weather regions are no problem for the Malinois, as they are "accustomed to living in the open air and built to resist inclement weather," says the AWMA.

What Belgian Malinois Owners Say: Our Malinois-loving Facebook friends have everything positive to say about the breed. Says one, "I love that my dog is super smart. She thinks things through, and she is very athletic. The most difficult thing is she has a very high drive. Me and my pooch are a perfect match in that we both like activity yet still cuddle at night!" Another sums it up best: "They are very intelligent! Beautiful breed!"

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