10 Surprising Belgian Malinois Facts: Elite Working Dog Traits

Belgian Malinois dogs have gained popularity as working and family pets in recent years. These intelligent and athletic canines are known for their loyalty, energy, and versatility.

You might be surprised to learn some interesting facts about Belgian Malinois. These dogs have unique traits and abilities that set them apart from other breeds, making them exceptional companions and working dogs. From their history to their special skills, there’s a lot to discover about this fascinating breed.

1. Intelligence Levels Comparable to 3-Year-Old Child

Belgian Malinois are known for their impressive smarts. You might be surprised to learn that their intelligence is similar to a 2.5-year-old child. These dogs can understand about 165 words and gestures. They can also count up to four or five, so this puts them on par with toddlers in terms of cognitive abilities.

2. Preferred Breed for Military Working Dogs

Belgian Malinois are top picks for military working dogs. Their strength, speed, and smarts make them perfect for tough jobs. These dogs also have incredible stamina. They can work long hours without getting tired. This makes them great for patrols and searches.

3. High Energy Requirements

Belgian Malinois dogs have incredibly high energy levels. You’ll need to be prepared for a pet that requires lots of daily exercise and mental stimulation. These dogs need at least 60-90 minutes of vigorous activity each day. This can include running, hiking, swimming, or playing fetch.

Proper nutrition is vital for maintaining the health and vitality of your Belgian Malinois.

Fresh, human-grade dog food provides balanced nutrients tailored to their specific needs, supporting their energy levels, coat health, and overall longevity.

Choosing high-quality food ensures your energetic companion thrives.

4. Challenging Behavior in Unstimulated Environments

Belgian Malinois dogs are known for their high energy and intelligence. Without proper mental and physical stimulation, they can develop challenging behaviors. In unstimulated environments, your Malinois may become restless and destructive. That means they might chew on furniture, dig up your yard, or bark excessively.

Moreover, excessive barking is a common issue when these dogs are bored. They may also become overly anxious or develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. To prevent these problems, you need to provide your Malinois with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.

5. Loyal to a Fault

Belgian Malinois are known for their extreme loyalty. These dogs form deep bonds with their owners and will do anything to protect them. You’ll find that your Malinois will stick by your side no matter what. They’re often called “velcro dogs” because they want to be near you all the time.

This loyalty can sometimes be too much because Belgian Malinois may become anxious when left alone. They form deep, loyal bonds with their handlers, which can lead to separation anxiety.

6. Require Consistent Training

Belgian Malinois need regular training to thrive. These smart dogs pick up new skills quickly, but they also need constant practice to keep those skills sharp. You’ll find that training your Belgian Malinois is an ongoing process. It’s not something you can do once and forget about, which means your Malinois will need daily training sessions to stay mentally stimulated and well-behaved.

After a day filled with vigorous activities, your Belgian Malinois deserves a restful retreat.

Investing in a high-quality dog bed designed for active breeds ensures they have a comfortable place to relax and rejuvenate, promoting joint health and overall well-being.

7. Often Used in Police Work

Belgian Malinois dogs are a top choice for police departments worldwide. You’ll often see these dogs working alongside officers in various roles. These intelligent dogs excel at tracking suspects and missing persons. Moreover, their keen sense of smell and agility make them perfect for search and rescue operations.

Belgian Malinois are also skilled at detecting drugs and explosives. Police use them to sniff out illegal substances in airports, border crossings, and other security checkpoints.

8. Sensitive to Their Handler’s Emotions

Belgian Malinois are highly sensitive dogs. They can pick up on your emotions and mood changes quickly, which makes them excellent working dogs and companions. Your Malinois will react to your stress, anxiety, or excitement, so if you’re feeling tense, your dog may become more alert or anxious. And when you’re happy, your Malinois is likely to be more relaxed and playful.

This emotional connection means you need to be mindful of your own state. Staying calm and positive can help keep your Malinois balanced and your dog will look to you for cues on how to behave in different situations.

9. Exceptional Agility

Belgian Malinois dogs are known for their incredible agility, moving quickly and gracefully. Furthermore, these dogs excel in agility competitions and obstacle courses. Their lean, muscular bodies allow them to jump, climb, and weave with ease.

You’ll notice their ability to change direction rapidly. This skill makes them favored for tasks requiring speed and agility. Moreover, Belgian Malinois can easily leap over high fences and walls. Their jumping ability is impressive, often reaching heights of 6 feet or more.

10. Frequent Grooming Needed

You might think Belgian Malinois don’t need much grooming due to their short coat. But this isn’t true. These dogs need regular care to keep their coat and skin healthy. So make sure you brush your Malinois 2-3 times a week using a pin brush. This helps remove loose fur and prevents matting and it also spreads natural oils through the coat, keeping it shiny and healthy.

Bottom Line

Understanding the unique characteristics and needs of the Belgian Malinois is essential for providing them with a fulfilling life. By ensuring they have a comfortable resting place, proper nutrition, and health coverage, you can support their well-being and enjoy a rewarding companionship with this remarkable breed.