Belgian Malinois
Athletic, determined and unstoppable
Mals 101
Herding groupThe Belgian Malinois is one of four Belgian herding dogs that can be identified by their coats, of which the Malinois has the shortest. The Mal, however, is by far the most challenging of these breeds to own. They excel as military and police dogs, but are likely too much dog for those inexperienced with high-drive dogs or unable to provide them with enough training and exercise. They are intelligent, easy to train and utterly fearless.
What we love about Mals
If you're up to the challenge of having one, they'll never let you down
Energy level
Energy level: 100% (Very high)
Bark level
- Very vocal
- Talkative
- As needed
Bark level: Talkative. This breed vocalizes regularly but not excessively
Size
Size: 22 to 26 inches tall. This is a Large sized Dog.
- Energy level
- Very high (100%)
- Bark level
- Talkative
- Height
- 22 to 26 inches
- Lifespan
- 14 to 16 years
- Weight
- 40 to 80 lbs
The Belgian Malinois stands 22 to 26 inches tall and weighs 40 to 80 lbs. Belgian Malinoiss have a lifespan of 14 to 16 years. They are known for a very high (100%) energy level and a talkative bark.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How big do Belgian Malinoiss get?
- Belgian Malinoiss stand 22 to 26 inches tall and typically weigh between 40 and 80 pounds.
- How long do Belgian Malinoiss live?
- The average lifespan of a Belgian Malinois is 14 to 16 years.
- Are Belgian Malinoiss good for first-time dog owners?
- Belgian Malinoiss are intelligent but have high energy. They do best with experienced owners who can provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
- Do Belgian Malinoiss bark a lot?
- Belgian Malinoiss are considered talkative — they bark more than average but are not excessively vocal.
My pet’s health plannerSM
This Belgian Malinois health planner outlines the most common medical conditions at each life stage — from puppy through senior — along with their relative risk levels. Understanding these risks can help owners plan preventive care and choose the right pet insurance coverage.
Mature adult Mal
Risk level for common Mal conditions
Mid-life Belgian Malinoiss should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health.
- Trauma
- Above Average Risk
- Skin allergies
- Average Risk
- Foreign body ingestion †
- Below Average Risk
40% on risk scaleSenior Mal
Risk level for common Mal conditions
Senior Belgian Malinoiss face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Arthritis poses very high risk.
- Arthritis
- Very High Risk
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Moderate Risk
- Trauma
- Above Average Risk
Mal puppy
Risk level for common Mal conditions
Belgian Malinois puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Gastroenteritis poses very high risk. Trauma is at high risk.
- Gastroenteritis
- Very High Risk
- Trauma
- High Risk
- Conjunctivitis
- Moderate Risk
Young adult Mal
Risk level for common Mal conditions
As Belgian Malinoiss grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant. Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) and Trauma are at moderate risk.
- Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)
- Moderate Risk
- Trauma
- Moderate Risk
- Foreign body ingestion
- Above Average Risk
Mature adult Mal
Risk level for common Mal conditions
Mid-life Belgian Malinoiss should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health.
- Trauma
- Above Average Risk
- Skin allergies
- Average Risk
- Foreign body ingestion †
- Below Average Risk
Senior Mal
Risk level for common Mal conditions
Senior Belgian Malinoiss face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Arthritis poses very high risk.
- Arthritis
- Very High Risk
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Moderate Risk
- Trauma
- Above Average Risk
Mal puppy
Risk level for common Mal conditions
Belgian Malinois puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Gastroenteritis poses very high risk. Trauma is at high risk.
- Gastroenteritis
- Very High Risk
- Trauma
- High Risk
- Conjunctivitis
- Moderate Risk
Young adult Mal
Risk level for common Mal conditions
As Belgian Malinoiss grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant. Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) and Trauma are at moderate risk.
- Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)
- Moderate Risk
- Trauma
- Moderate Risk
- Foreign body ingestion
- Above Average Risk
Nationwide can help you save on your Belgian Malinois's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.
- Puppy (0 to 9 months)
- Gastroenteritis: Very High Risk, Trauma: High Risk, Conjunctivitis: Moderate Risk
- Young Adult (10 months to 4 years)
- Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV): Moderate Risk, Trauma: Moderate Risk, Foreign body ingestion: Above Average Risk
- Mature Adult (5 years to 8 years)
- Trauma: Above Average Risk, Skin allergies: Average Risk, Foreign body ingestion: Below Average Risk
- Senior (9+ years)
- Arthritis: Very High Risk, Intervertebral disc disease: Moderate Risk, Trauma: Above Average Risk
A Belgian Malinois named Cairo was the only non-human member of the U.S. Navy Seal team on the mission that raided the complex of Osama bin Laden.
Belgian Malinois coat care and colors
The Malinois has a short, dense coat that is relatively easy to care for; just regular brushing to reduce shedding and nail trims as needed.
How often should I bathe my Belgian Malinois?
How often should I bathe my Belgian Malinois?
What kind of shampoo should I use on my Belgian Malinois?
What kind of shampoo should I use on my Belgian Malinois?
How often should I brush my Belgian Malinois?
How often should I brush my Belgian Malinois?
Mal exercise & training
Mal fun facts
Top girl names for Mals
of Mals are female
of Mals are male
Top boy names for Mals
Nationwide loves Belgian Malinoiss of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer
| Gender | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Male | 0% |
| Female | 100% |
Among Belgian Malinoiss insured by Nationwide, 0% are male and 100% are female.
Belgian Malinois statistics: Gender ratio is 0% male and 100% female.
Other breeds like Mals
Best. Belgian Malinois insurance. Ever.SM
- Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
- Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
- Cancel at any time, risk-free