Belgian Malinois vs German shepherd is not a recent debate. While both good breeds are not related to each other but indeed have some prominent similarities. Whether you are trying to pick between a German shepherd and a Belgian Malinois, or if you are just interested in the differences between these two breeds, this article will guide you through everything both dogs have in common and do not.

How Is a Belgian Malinois Different From A German Shepherd?

While the Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd have a similar look, they are not related in any manner. Malinois is one of four herding breeds that originated in Belgium near the city of Malines, while German Shepherds were developed in Germany in the late 1800s. Here are some major differences between these two breeds:

Size And Colour of Coat:

A Belgian Malinois resembles a smaller, blonder German shepherd and is occasionally confused for one. Malinois are fawn-colored shorthaired dogs with a black overlay and black mask and ears. Females weigh 40-60 pounds on average, while males weigh 60-80 pounds.

While they are smaller and finer-boned than German shepherds, with an exquisite, “no-frills” type of sleekness, they are robust and muscular dogs who are virtually tireless. German shepherds are bigger than Belgian Malinois, with females weighing between 50 and 70 pounds and males weighing between 65 and 90 pounds. Along with being significantly bigger, their coats are slightly longer, with more fluff and undercoat than Belgian Malinois even though there’s a long-coated German shepherd type.

The breed is well-known for its basic coloring black and tan or black and silver with a black saddle across the body but pure black and sable puppies, generally with a dark face, are also prevalent. Sable, or more accurately, agouti, is the banding of color on each hair, resulting in a wide range of hues and colors that can vary dramatically from sable dog to sable dog.

Behavior:

German shepherds and Belgian Malinois are both working breeds. They are intelligent, eager partners that like working with their people, as are most herding breeds. Because of their high activity levels and intellect, both breeds are probably more suited for knowledgeable dog owners. While they adore their owners, if they are not given work or exercise regularly, they can become destructive. Both breeds are highly valued by police and military K9 teams because of their great work drive and flexibility. They appear to be hardwired for adventure, and being herding breeds, they are extremely attentive and acutely aware of their environment.

This provides for excellent cooperation in almost any activity, particularly in high-risk scenarios such as police or military work, where these dogs are important to their handlers and units.

Independent And Training:

While both dogs have occupations and work in several industries, the German Shepherd is a more self-sufficient worker than the eager-to-please Belgian Malinois. While both dogs work hard with a range of humans and canines, the German Shepherd is more obstinate throughout training than the Belgian Malinois.

Furthermore, due to the German Shepherd’s high intelligence, dogs of this breed like learning a range of new duties, whereas the Belgian Malinois thrives on regularity. A Belgian Malinois is content as long as someone is around to praise them on a job well done; a German Shepherd would prefer to do their own thing than repeat the same chores.

It’s All About Health:

When it comes to the expense of veterinary treatment, the vulnerability of each breed to certain health concerns is critical. The Belgian Malinois appears to be the healthier of the two breeds, being more prone to joint dysplasia and eye problems, however, they can also suffer from allergies. Their general health makes them more suitable for police and military duties than German Shepherds.

On the other hand, some types of shepherd dogs have certain health concerns. Along with the health issues that might affect the Malinois, this breed can also suffer from chronic diarrhea, blindness, cancer, lupus, diabetes, and other issues. Though the German Shepherd is a popular breed among dog owners, the cost of keeping them healthy is significant.

Separation Or Work Anxiety:

The strong activity level of these canines is what makes them such outstanding working dogs. Unfortunately, having a lot of energy and mental ability may lead to worry. Anxiety may occur in Malinois and even in the best shepherd dog, although Malinois are more prone to it. When these dogs are not properly taught or do not have a disciplined schedule, they might acquire uncertainties, phobias, and perhaps violence.

Which Is Best for You: Belgian Malinois vs German Shepherd?

When selecting a working dog, such as one of these breeds, trust your instincts to tap into his specific qualities and provide him with the best life possible. The Belgian Malinois appears to be the healthier of the two breeds, being more prone to joint dysplasia and eye problems, however, they can also suffer from allergies. Their general health makes them more suitable for police and military duties than German Shepherds.

Even though Malinois is considered a dog that looks like a German shepherd, these two dog breeds are unique and different on their own.

Read More: 5 German Shepherd Breed Types: Which is Right for You?