Dog Breeds

Belgian Malinois

Renowned for both its herding abilities and protective instincts, the Belgian Malinois is a trusted companion worldwide.

Belgian Malinois

Dog Breeds

Belgian Malinois

Renowned for both its herding abilities and protective instincts, the Belgian Malinois is a trusted companion worldwide.

Belgian Malinois

Dog Breeds

Belgian Malinois

Renowned for both its herding abilities and protective instincts, the Belgian Malinois is a trusted companion worldwide.

Belgian Malinois

Dog Breeds

Belgian Malinois

Renowned for both its herding abilities and protective instincts, the Belgian Malinois is a trusted companion worldwide.

Belgian Malinois

Other Names

Malinois, Belgian Malawa, Mals

Other Names

Malinois, Belgian Malawa, Mals

Other Names

Malinois, Belgian Malawa, Mals

Personality

Affectionate, independent, playful, vocal, shy, social, etc.

Personality

Affectionate, independent, playful, vocal, shy, social, etc.

Personality

Affectionate, independent, playful, vocal, shy, social, etc.

Weight

18-34 kg (39.6-75 lbs)

Weight

18-34 kg (39.6-75 lbs)

Weight

18-34 kg (39.6-75 lbs)

Length

86-102 cm (33.9-40.2 inches)

Length

86-102 cm (33.9-40.2 inches)

Length

86-102 cm (33.9-40.2 inches)

Coat Length

Short hair

Coat Length

Short hair

Coat Length

Short hair

Coat colors

Fawn to mahogany

Coat colors

Fawn to mahogany

Coat colors

Fawn to mahogany

Coat Patterns

Solid with dark shading and mask

Coat Patterns

Solid with dark shading and mask

Coat Patterns

Solid with dark shading and mask

Eye Color

Brown, black

Eye Color

Brown, black

Eye Color

Brown, black

Lifespan

10 to 14

Lifespan

10 to 14

Lifespan

10 to 14

Hypoallergenic

No

Hypoallergenic

No

Hypoallergenic

No

Belgian Malinois

Belgian Malinois

Belgian Malinois

Breed History

The Belgian Malinois hails from the city of Mechelen. It’s one of the four Belgian Shepherds, each named based on the place it was bred. These dogs were bred to herd sheep and guard property, making them valuable working dogs for the people. 

Because of their work ethic and stamina, the Mals became popular dogs worldwide. The breed became a choice for militaries, police forces, and protection services. They have also become famous for dog sports and agility games.

Today, the Belgian Malinois continues to be a loyal and hardworking dog.

The Belgian Malinois hails from the city of Mechelen. It’s one of the four Belgian Shepherds, each named based on the place it was bred. These dogs were bred to herd sheep and guard property, making them valuable working dogs for the people. 

Because of their work ethic and stamina, the Mals became popular dogs worldwide. The breed became a choice for militaries, police forces, and protection services. They have also become famous for dog sports and agility games.

Today, the Belgian Malinois continues to be a loyal and hardworking dog.

Belgian Malinois Breed History
Belgian Malinois Breed History
Belgian Malinois Breed History

Health and Medical Concerns

Cancerology

Cardiology

Dermatology

Endocrinology

Gastroenterology

Hematology & Immune System

Infectious Diseases

Neurology

Ophthalmology

Orthopedics

Pulmonology

Reproduction

Hemangiosarcoma

Hemangiosarcoma is a cancer that develops from the cells in the linings of the blood vessels. This type of cancer often targets the spleen, liver, and heart. It’s generally caused by genetics and leads to symptoms such as sudden weakness, collapse, and pale gums. (De Nardi et al., 2023)

Gastric Carcinoma

An aggressive cancer that originates in the linings of the stomach. Genetics is the most probable cause. Affected Belgian Malinois may experience vomiting, reduced appetite, and weight loss. (Cândido et al., 2021)

Lymphoma

A cancer that affects the white blood cells of dogs. It can also invade the liver, spleen, and gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms include swollen lymph nodes, lethargy, and changes in appetite. (Pinto et al., 2024)

Just welcomed a Belgian Malinois?
Just welcomed a Belgian Malinois?
Just welcomed a Belgian Malinois?
Just welcomed a Belgian Malinois?

Schedule their first vet visit today!

Temperament and Lifestyle Fit

Belgian Malinois Breed Info in the UAE

Adaptability

Legalities

Availability

Heat Sensitivity

Belgian Malinois can adapt to high temperatures. However, prolonged exposure and the nature of their work can put them at risk for overheating. 

Precautions

Exercise should be scheduled during early mornings or late evenings. Indoor dog parks are also great places for fitness activities.

Belgian Malinois Breed Info in the UAE

Adaptability

Legalities

Availability

Heat Sensitivity

Belgian Malinois can adapt to high temperatures. However, prolonged exposure and the nature of their work can put them at risk for overheating. 

Precautions

Exercise should be scheduled during early mornings or late evenings. Indoor dog parks are also great places for fitness activities.

Belgian Malinois Breed Info in the UAE

Adaptability

Legalities

Availability

Heat Sensitivity

Belgian Malinois can adapt to high temperatures. However, prolonged exposure and the nature of their work can put them at risk for overheating. 

Precautions

Exercise should be scheduled during early mornings or late evenings. Indoor dog parks are also great places for fitness activities.

Belgian Malinois Breed Info in the UAE

Adaptability

Legalities

Availability

Heat Sensitivity

Belgian Malinois can adapt to high temperatures. However, prolonged exposure and the nature of their work can put them at risk for overheating. 

Precautions

Exercise should be scheduled during early mornings or late evenings. Indoor dog parks are also great places for fitness activities.

Diet & Nutrition

Dietary Needs

Belgian Malinois require a high-protein diet with a good balance of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals to support growth. 

Sensitivities

Food Types

Portion Sizes

Dietary Needs

Belgian Malinois require a high-protein diet with a good balance of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals to support growth. 

Sensitivities

Food Types

Portion Sizes

Dietary Needs

Belgian Malinois require a high-protein diet with a good balance of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals to support growth. 

Sensitivities

Food Types

Portion Sizes

Dietary Needs

Belgian Malinois require a high-protein diet with a good balance of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals to support growth. 

Sensitivities

Food Types

Portion Sizes

Belgian Malinois Diet and Nutrition
Belgian Malinois Diet and Nutrition
Belgian Malinois Diet and Nutrition

Belgian Malinois Grooming Guide

Belgian Malinois Grooming Guide
Belgian Malinois Grooming Guide
Belgian Malinois Grooming Guide

Coat Maintenance

Brushing can be done once every week, which helps prevent debris buildup. Use a slicker brush. 

Skin Health

The breed generally has healthy skin, but regular grooming helps catch issues like dryness, flaking, or irritation early.

Bathing

Bathing can be done once every 2 to 3 months. Use a vet-approved shampoo and make sure to dry them thoroughly. 

Nail Trimming

Nail trimming can be done once every 3 to 4 weeks, or until they get too long. Use dog-specific nail clippers. 

Ear Care

Check the ears weekly for any signs of debris or dirt buildup. Ear cleaning can be done monthly with a pet-safe solution. 

Eye Care

Clean their eyes weekly. Make sure to gently wipe their ears outward with a soft, damp cloth. 

Teeth Care

Belgian Malinois should have their teeth cleaned around twice or thrice a week. Use a pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrush. 

Physical Characteristics

Head

Belgian Malinois have a long and well-proportioned head. It has a strong jaw with tight lips. 

Eyes

The eyes are medium and oval-shaped. Colors vary from different shades of brown to black.

Ears

Their ears are triangular, erect, and set high on the head. These are stiff and pointed.

Body

The Belgian Malinois has a strong, elegant, and square-shaped body. It has a deep chest and a level topline. 

Limbs

Its legs are strong and well-muscled. The hind legs are proportionate to the body and are longer than the front legs. 

Tail

Their tails are often carried high and can curl. These are strong at the base, taper to a point, and are carried low when at rest.

Coat

Belgian Malinois have a short, dense coat that is weather-resistant. It’s solid with a dark shading and mask, coming in shades of fawn to mahogany.

Size

Male: 61-66 cm (24-26 inches); Female: 55.9-61 cm (22-24 inches).

Weight

Male: 25-34 kg (55-75 lbs); Female: 18-27 kg (39.6-59.5 lbs).

Belgian Malinois Physical Characteristics
Belgian Malinois Physical Characteristics
Belgian Malinois Physical Characteristics

Wellness & Emergency Care

Book Appointment

Wellness & Emergency Care

Book Appointment

Worried about your pet?

We’re here for urgent care, wellness checks, or anything in between. 

We’re here for urgent care, wellness checks, or anything in between. 

Get the best Vet care for your pet
Get the best Vet care for your pet
Get the best Vet care for your pet

Unique care for your best friends, because they’re family.

© 2025 Noble Veterinary Clinics

© 2025 Noble Veterinary Clinics

Unique care for your best friends, because they’re family.

© 2025 Noble Veterinary Clinics

Unique care for your best friends, because they’re family.

Policies

Contact Us

DIP - 8am to 9pm
JLT - 10am to 7pm

Jumeirah -

Mon-Fri: 8am to 8pm

Sat-Sun: 9am to 6pm

© 2025 Noble Veterinary Clinics