8 Pros and Cons to Owning a Belgian Malinois

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Meet Mathew, Cat Dad and Animal Advocate! Mathew is the editor at PawDown, overseeing content strategy and quality. He's in charge of carefully curating the best pet stories, tips, and advice for you.

Belgian Malinois
Pixabay/Pexels

The Belgian Malinois stands out for its remarkable intelligence, agility, and strong work ethic, which is why it’s a top choice for both police forces and owners with active lifestyles. While these dogs have a lot to offer, they’re not for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a loyal protector or an active companion, understanding the pros and cons of owning a Belgian Malinois will help you decide if this high-energy dog is the right fit for your lifestyle. Let’s dive into the pros and cons!

Extremely Intelligent

Belgian Malinois
Jozef Feher/Pexels

Belgian Malinoiss are incredibly smart dogs, often outpacing other breeds in terms of learning new commands and problem-solving. Their intelligence makes them highly trainable, which is why they’re favored by military and police forces for tasks that require quick thinking and sharp instincts. For owners who love to train their dogs or teach them new tricks, the Malinois’ sharp mind is a major plus. They enjoy mental challenges, making them ideal for obedience training, agility sports, or even puzzle toys that keep their brain engaged.

Great for Active Households

Belgian Malinois
Abibniosky/Pixabay

The Belgian Malinois is the perfect companion for active individuals or families who love the outdoors. Known for their boundless energy and stamina, these dogs thrive on being part of the action. Whether it’s running, hiking, playing fetch, or engaging in agility training, they are always ready to join in. Their high energy levels make them ideal for those who enjoy long adventures and need a dog that can keep up with their active lifestyle. If your household thrives on activity, the Belgian Malinois will fit right in, always eager for the next adventure.

Excellent Guard Dog

Belgian Malinois
Anton Kudryashov/pexels

Belgian Malinois are natural protectors. They are highly alert, making them excellent watchdogs who will keep a close eye on your home and family. Their protective instincts are sharp, and they are quick to react to potential threats. Unlike some breeds that bark excessively, the Malinois only tends to alert when there’s a real reason. They take their role as a family guardian seriously and are incredibly loyal to their pack, providing both a sense of safety and peace of mind for their owners.

Versatile Working Dog

Belgian Malinois
Jozef Fehér:/pexels

Belgian Malinois are known for their versatility in the working world. From military service to search and rescue, their agility, intelligence, and endurance make them a go-to breed for jobs that require a dog capable of performing various tasks. If you’re someone who loves to work with dogs in areas like agility, obedience competitions, or even advanced training like scent work, the Malinois is a top performer. They thrive in environments where they have a job to do, and their drive to work is unparalleled.

Strong Bond with Owners

Belgian Malinois
Jozef Fehér/pexels

When you own a Belgian Malinois, you gain a deeply loyal and devoted companion. These dogs form strong, lasting bonds with their owners and are known for their unwavering loyalty and desire to please. Once they trust you, they will stick by your side through thick and thin, always ready to protect and support you. Whether you’re at home, out for a walk, or engaging in training, a Malinois will always have your back. Their deep connection makes them affectionate companions, perfect for those who enjoy spending a lot of time with their dog.

Long Lifespan for a Large Breed

Belgian Malinois
Anton Kudryashov/pexels

Belgian Malinois typically have a lifespan of 12 to 14 years, which is relatively long for a medium-to-large breed. With proper care, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine vet visits, they can remain healthy and active well into their senior years. This long lifespan means more time to enjoy their company and build a lasting bond. For families or individuals looking for a dog that will be part of their lives for many years, the Malinois’ longevity is a big plus, ensuring a long-lasting companionship.

Highly Versatile in Dog Sports

Belgian Malinois
Dirk Hei/pexels

Belgian Malinois excel in a variety of dog sports, including agility, obedience, herding, and protection work. Their athleticism, intelligence, and eagerness to learn make them top contenders in competitive dog sports. If you’re interested in participating in dog sports or want a dog that thrives in structured activities, the Malinois is the perfect partner. They love having a job to do and performing exceptionally well in environments where they can showcase their skills. Their versatility makes them a joy for handlers who enjoy a challenge.

Minimal Grooming Needs

Belgian Malinois
Anton Kudryashov/pexels

Despite their thick double coat, Belgian Malinois are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their coat sheds moderately throughout the year, but regular brushing can keep it under control. They don’t require frequent baths and don’t have the grooming needs of some longer-haired breeds. If you’re looking for a dog that’s not going to require frequent trips to the groomer, the Malinois is a great choice. With minimal grooming needs, you can spend more time enjoying their company and less time worrying about upkeep.

Requires Intense Mental Stimulation

Belgian Malinois
Marchalluc/Pixabay

While their intelligence is a huge advantage, it also comes with its own set of challenges. A Belgian Malinois that isn’t mentally stimulated can quickly become a source of trouble. Without enough mental stimulation, they can develop destructive behaviors such as excessive barking, chewing, or digging. They thrive in environments where they are constantly learning and working, so owners need to be prepared to provide plenty of mental challenges. If you can’t dedicate the time to keeping their mind engaged, you might find your Malinois inventing its own (often messy) activities.

Can Be Overly Protective

belgian-malinois
jozef-feher/pexels

While their guarding instincts are great, they can sometimes become overly protective, especially if they’re not properly socialized. Belgian Malinois can be wary of strangers and may become aggressive toward people or animals they perceive as threats. If not trained and socialized correctly from an early age, their protective nature can lead to problems, especially in households with frequent visitors. It’s important to teach them the difference between a real threat and everyday social encounters to prevent unnecessary guarding behaviors.

Not Ideal for First-Time Dog Owners

Belgian Malinois
Jozef Fehér/pexels

Belgian Malinois, with their high energy, intelligence, and protective nature, are not ideal for first-time dog owners. They require an experienced handler who can dedicate time to consistent training and exercise. Their intelligence means training isn’t a one-time effort—it’s an ongoing process to keep them mentally and physically engaged. Without proper guidance and stimulation, Malinois can develop behavioral issues, become overly dominant, or unmanageable. First-time owners may find their intensity overwhelming, so it’s important to consider a more beginner-friendly breed if you’re new to dog ownership.

Prone to Separation Anxiety

Belgian Malinois
Impact Dog Crates/pexels

Belgian Malinois tend to develop separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods due to their deep attachment to their owners. They thrive on companionship and can become anxious or destructive if left alone for too long. This is not a breed that will do well being left alone all day while you’re at work. Suppose you have a busy lifestyle that keeps you away from home frequently. In that case, the Malinois may struggle to adapt, leading to unwanted behaviors like excessive barking, chewing, or even trying to escape.

Seasonal Shedding

Belgian Malinois
Jozef Fehér/pexels

While their grooming needs are minimal, Belgian Malinois do shed quite a bit, especially during seasonal changes. Twice a year, they “blow” their coat, meaning you’ll notice a dramatic increase in shedding as they transition to their winter or summer coat. This can lead to dog hair everywhere if not managed with regular brushing. For those who are sensitive to dog hair or don’t have the time for extra cleaning, this seasonal shedding might be a con. Be prepared to invest in a good vacuum if you bring a Malinois home.

Prone to Health Issues

Belgian Malinois
Anton Kudryashov:

Like all breeds, Belgian Malinoiss are prone to certain health issues. Hip and elbow dysplasia, eye problems, and sensitivity to anesthesia are some common health concerns associated with the breed. While many Malinois remain healthy throughout their lives, these potential health issues can lead to costly vet bills and the need for ongoing care. If you’re not prepared for the possibility of managing a dog with health challenges, it’s important to consider whether a Malinois is the right fit, as they may require additional attention as they age.

May Be Too Intense for Some Families

Belgian Malinois
anton-kudryashov/pexels

Belgian Malinois are intense dogs with high energy levels that can be overwhelming for families who aren’t prepared for the commitment they require. They need consistent mental and physical stimulation, often requiring several hours of exercise a day, which can be too demanding for more laid-back households. Their herding instincts may also lead them to chase or nip at smaller animals or children, making them challenging for homes with young kids or other pets. Without proper exercise and engagement, Malinois can become restless and anxious, making them a poor fit for relaxed lifestyles.

Not Suited for Small Living Spaces

Belgian Malinois
luc marchal/pixabay

Belgian Malinois is not the best choice for apartment living or homes without access to outdoor space. Their high energy levels and need for exercise mean they require room to run and play. Without a yard or access to nearby open spaces, they can become restless and frustrated, leading to unwanted behaviors. If you live in a small space and can’t provide the physical outlets they need, a Malinois may not be the right fit for your home. They thrive best in environments where they have plenty of room to roam.

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