The Belgium malinosis is a medium sized herding dog. Originally bred in Belgium the malinosis are one of 4 Belgium shepherd varieties alongside, the Tervuren, Groenendael, and the Laekenosis. They date back to the 1800's but only started to grow in popularity around the 1960's after their original appearance in the US in the 1900's dropped off after WW2. Popularity began to rise again due to the American kennel club recognising the breed in 1959.
The Belgium malinosis!
* Medium-sized herding dog.
* Athletic, bounds of energy and extremely intelligent.
* Thrive in a work environment.
* Fearless.
BREED OVERVIEW.
* Group - herding.
* Height - 22 to 24 inches
* Weight - 40/60 pounds for female, 60/80 pounds for a male.
* Coat - Short, smooth double coat.
* Coat colour - Fawn, mahogany, red, red sable, or fawn sable with black mask.
* Lifespan - 14/16 years.
* Tempermant - Active, intelligent, loyal.
* Hypoallergenic - No
* Origin - Belgium.
In this crazy family we have 2 belgium shepherd mixes. These are definitely not a breed for the light hearted. If your a lazy dog owner than these are definitely not the breed for you. They need lots of mental and physical stimulation, consistent training and proper controlled socialisation, with a lack of either than you will see an increase of destructive behaviours, redirecting, unwanted behaviour in and outside the home like reactivity. This breed needs proper introduction to kids, they need to be taught how to be calm. They can be wary of strangers and will bite if not trained and controlled properly. This breed can also be prone to hip and elbow displacia so good breeding and genetics are extremely important. Although the above doesn't paint them in a great first light, the Belgium mali is the most loyal, attentive dog I have ever owned. They bond to their owners with so much intensity making them absolutely amazing protection dogs.
Pro's of a Mali....
* smart and trainable.
* loves to work.
* only needs basic grooming.
* generally healthy.
* bonds strongly.
* fearless.
* extreme physicality.
Con's of a Mali.....
* high physical and mental needs.
* high prey drive.
* not an appropriate family dog unless worked and trained right.
* can easily develop behavioural problems.
* not a dog to be left alone for long periods of time.
* not a novice dog owners dog!!!
As mentioned the Belgium malinosis is not for the faint hearted, however they are a breed that becomes a huge part of the family very quickly. We are lucky as a family, that we can pretty much take our dogs everywhere with us and we are a very active family who love adventures and the great outdoors. This breed fits our home and lifestyle but this is definitely a breed that takes a lot of your time and energy. Think carefully before bringing in one of these into your family.