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Belgian Malinois : Dog Breed Characteristics and Diseases

Belgian Malinois

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Belgian Malinois

 

Origin: Belgium
Popularity Rank: 37 Since 2020
Life Span: Belgian Malinois lifespan 12-14 years
Color: Belgian Malinois colors are short brown, and yellow coats, Tan, Mahogany, and Black-tipped Fawn in colors.
Size: medium in size
Height: The height of Males is 61-66 cm (24-26 inches) and the Female height is 56-61 cm (22-24 inches).
Breed Group: The “Belgian Malinois dog” belong to the herding group.
Pricing: “Belgian  Malinois Price” ranges from $1000 – $1800 USD.
Weight: The “Belgian Malinois weight” of the male breed is 60 to 80 pounds, and the female weight is 40 to 60 pounds.

Belgian Malinois History

The “Belgian  Malinois” (the Belgian Shepherd or the Chien de Berger Belge) is a medium-sized Belgian herding dog. The “Belgian Shepherd Dog” was developed in Belgium as a sheep herding dog. They have four distinct varieties based on coat and color: the long-haired black Greendale, the rough-haired fawn Laekenois, the short-haired fawn Milionis, and the long-haired fawn Tervuren. The four varieties are considered separate breeds in the United States by the American Kennel Club. The “Belgian Malinois breed” descended from a shepherd dog widespread throughout Western Europe, which includes modern varieties such as the Bouvier des Ardennes, Dutch Shepherd, and German Shepherd.

The “Belgian Malinois’ origins” can be traced to the late 19th century, when the breed was mostly employed for the herding and protection of cattle. Belgian shepherds were prized for their wit, adaptability, and working skills. They were utilized for additional activities like pulling milk carts in addition to herding and as draught dogs.

The “Dog Belgian Malinois” was recognized for its extraordinary abilities during World War I and used by the military for a variety of tasks. The breed demonstrated its exceptional adaptability by working as search and rescue dogs, ambulance dogs, and messenger dogs. They were useful resources in battle because of their intelligence, agility, and trainability.

The “Belgian Malinois” was recognized as a distinct breed in 1959 by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), a global association for dogs. The FCI, which has its headquarters in Belgium, recognized the breed, which contributed to the breed gaining international recognition. The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the “Belgian Malinois breed” in the US in 1959. One of the biggest and most powerful kennel clubs in the world is the AKC.

Belgian Malinois Qualities

The “Belgian Malinois” is an elegant, square-proportioned dog with a proud carriage that is attentive and agile. They have moderately heavy bones. Their movement is fluid, tireless, and effortless rather than driven. It prefers to move in circles rather than straight lines. Their expression is clever and inquisitive, and their catchy eyes are black.

Moreover, they are animated and relatively quick dogs. These dogs have a natural inclination towards movement. The Belgian breed was created for endurance. They can move and care for the flock all day and protect it from intruders. In addition to their natural abilities as flock guardians, they are excellent watchdogs and persistent and fearless defenders of their master and family. They are clever, curious, alert, and highly responsive to their owner’s commands.

Belgian Malinois Puppies

Puppies of Belgian Malinois are cute and active small canines. They are renowned for their wit, devotion, and great levels of vigor. Belgian Malinois puppies  need to be socialized early and trained consistently. They have a strong drive and may be rather spirited, yet they are intelligent and eager to please. Early, appropriate socialization aids in their growth into mature, self-assured dogs. To redirect their energy and establish boundaries, basic obedience training is crucial.

Belgian Malinois Body

The Belgian Malinois dogs has a medium-sized body and a sturdy bone structure. They appear slightly longer than tall, with a deep chest that allows plenty of room for their well-developed lungs. Their necks are robust and arched, and they have well-angled shoulders. The back is straight and firm, resulting in a somewhat slanted group.

Belgian Malinois walk gracefully, propelled by their muscular hindquarters with ease and effectiveness. Their tail has a slight upward curl and is carried low, reaching the hock. Overall, their physique oozes athleticism and balance and perfectly complements their agile and intellectual personality. Another distinguishing characteristic of this dog is its upright, alert ears, which contribute to the impression of intelligence and attention. They are high on the head, triangular in shape, and add to the dog’s overall symmetry and regal bearing.

Coat

The Belgian Malinois  dogs have a dense undercoat and an exterior coat of many guard hairs that are long, well-fitting, and straight.

Belgian Malinois Feathering

Belgian Malinois  have feathers on their legs, tail, and neck. This feathering enhances their regal appearance and necessitates regular brushing to prevent matting.

Moderate grooming

It requires frequent grooming to keep the Belgian Sheepdog’s coat healthy and free of tangles and matting. Brushing at least a few times per week aids in the removal of loose hair, the distribution of natural oils, and the maintenance of the coat.

Minimal Trimming

The Belgian Sheepdog breed standard does not call for considerable trimming. However, trimming the feathering around the paws may be required for hygiene and to keep their neat appearance.

Belgian Malinois Shedding

Belgian Sheepdogs shed moderately to heavily. Seasonal shedding occurs when they shed their undercoat to prepare for shifting weather conditions. Brushing helps minimize shedding and maintains the coat healthy.

Black with Fawn Coloring

The coat color of the Belgian Sheepdog is usually black with different colors of fawn or mahogany. The fawn coloration can be seen on the lower legs, muzzle, and around the eyes. This color scheme lends them a stunning appearance.

Belgian Malinois Health Issues

The Belgian Shepherd dogs breed frequently suffer from pancreatitis, elbow dysplasia disorder, cataracts disorder, and hip dysplasia disorder.

Hip Dysplasia Disorder

As it does many other dog breeds, hip dysplasia can affect Belgian Shepherd dogs. Hip dysplasia is a deformity or improper growth of the hip joint. It is a genetic disorder that can be affected by a number of environmental circumstances.

Hip dysplasia can cause the hip joint to not fit together correctly, which can cause instability and even joint damage. The affected dog may have discomfort, lameness, and reduced movement as a result of this. Hip dysplasia can affect one or both hips, and its severity can range from minor to severe.

Belgian Malinois Allergies

Belgian Sheepdogs are susceptible to allergies to particular diets, environmental causes, or parasites. Identifying and avoiding allergens, in conjunction with veterinarian supervision, can aid in managing allergic reactions.

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus

This is a potentially fatal disorder in which the stomach fills with gas and twists. Immediate veterinary attention is essential to save the dog’s life.

Belgian Malinois Cancer

Belgian Shepher dogs are susceptible to various cancers, including hemangiosarcoma and lymphoma. Regular check-ups, early detection, and competent veterinarian care are critical for cancer management and treatment.

Belgian Malinois Pancreatitis

It is an inflammatory illness of the pancreas that causes abdominal pain, vomiting, loss of appetite, and lethargy in dogs. High-fat diets, obesity, and certain drugs can all contribute to it. Treatment consists of a combination of dietary adjustments, medication, and supportive care to manage symptoms and prevent recurrent episodes.

Elbow Dysplasia

Elbow dysplasia is a developmental condition that affects the elbow joint in dogs, resulting in pain, lameness, and limited mobility. It is widespread in giant breeds. In certain circumstances, medication, physical therapy, weight control, and surgery may be used to improve joint function and relieve discomfort.

Treatment

The treatment techniques of the Belgian Sheepdogs are give below:

Belgian Malinois Stress Management

Because Belgian Sheepdogs are sensitive dogs, stress can harm their health. Create a quiet and secure environment, stimulate their minds with engaging toys and puzzles, and avoid exposing them to stressful events.

Health Monitoring

Monitor your Belgian Sheepdog’s health for any behavior, appetite, or physical condition changes. Seek veterinarian attention when you see any signs of disease or discomfort.

Responsible Breeding

If you intend to breed Belgian Sheepdogs, use responsible breeding practices like genetic testing and selecting breeding couples with clean health histories to limit the chance of hereditary health problems.

Socialization and Training

Belgian Sheepdogs thrive when adequately socialized and trained. From an early age, expose them to different environments, people, and other animals to help them become well-adjusted and confident dogs. Enroll them in obedience classes or hire a professional dog trainer to ensure proper training and discipline.

 

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