Malinois

Loved by 76% of pet parents

Athletic, alert, and highly intelligent, this breed thrives on challenge and constant activity. Loyal and protective, it excels as both a working partner and devoted companion.

Breed Characteristics

Friendliness

Energy

Trainability

Playfulness

Adaptability

Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.

HEIGHT

61–66 cm (male)

56–61 cm (female)

WEIGHT

25–30 kg (male)

20–25 kg (female)

LIFE EXPECTANCY

12–14 years

Malinois: Breed snapshot

Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance

Key Breed Characteristics

Kingdom

Animalia

Phylum

Chordata

Class

Mammalia

Order

Carnivora

Family

Canidae

Genus

Canis

Species

Canis lupus familiaris

Diet

Omnivore

"A Malinois isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."

Temperament & personality

Understanding Malinois's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.

Personality Overview

The Malinois is known for its alert, confident, and loyal temperament, often forming strong bonds with its family and displaying protective instincts. This breed tends to be reserved with strangers.

Key Personality Traits

Friendliness

Generally reserved, bonds closely with family

Intelligence

Exceptionally quick to learn new tasks

Energy Level

Extremely active, requires significant exercise

Playfulness

Enjoys interactive games and activities

Adaptability

May struggle with major changes or new environments

Strengths

High intelligence and quick learner
Strong work ethic and drive
Excellent stamina and athleticism
Loyal and protective with family
Highly trainable for advanced tasks

Challenges

Requires extensive daily physical exercise
Prone to separation anxiety when left alone
Can be overly reactive without socialization
Needs experienced, consistent handling
May display herding or chasing instincts

Protect your Malinois

Malinois can develop hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. PetSecur covers unexpected vet costs with quick payouts and personal service.

Insure your pet

Intelligence & exercise needs

Malinoiss are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.

🧠 Intelligence & training

Trainability

Highly trainable

Overall rating

Highly intelligent and eager to work, Malinois excel in learning complex tasks and respond well to consistent, positive training methods. Their quick understanding makes them suitable for advanced obedience and various canine sports.

Trainable Tasks:

Scent detection work

Protection and guard training

Agility course navigation

Search and rescue drills

Off-leash recall training

Advanced obedience routines

🏃 Exercise & energy levels

Daily Exercise

90–120 minutes daily

recommended per day

Malinois have very high energy levels and require substantial daily physical exercise and mental stimulation. Without adequate activity and engagement, they can become bored and develop behavioral issues.

Recommended Activities:

Schutzhund sport trials

High-intensity fetch sessions

Canicross running

Police K9 simulations

Tracking and trailing exercises

Structured tug-of-war

Is this breed right for you?

Malinoiss are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a Malinois would fit well in your home.