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Malinois vs English Bulldog

Discover the differences between Malinois and English Bulldog to make the best choice for your situation.

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Malinois
Belgium

Malinois

Herding Group
Large

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.

English Bulldog
England

English Bulldog

Non-Sporting Group
Medium

Stocky, courageous, and affectionate, this breed charms with its wrinkled face and calm nature. Loyal and gentle, it thrives as a loving family companion.

Quick comparison

Size:

Large

Male:

25–30 kg

Coat:

Short, dense

Lifespan:

12–14 years

Female:

20–25 kg

Energy:

Extremely energetic

Size:

Medium

Male:

23–25 kg

Coat:

Short, smooth

Lifespan:

8–10 years

Female:

18–23 kg

Energy:

Low activity needs

Personality & behavior

Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.

Malinois

Friendliness
3/5

Generally reserved, bonds closely with family

Intelligence
5/5

Exceptionally quick to learn new tasks

Energy Level
5/5

Extremely active, requires significant exercise

Playfulness
4/5

Enjoys interactive games and activities

Adaptability
3/5

May struggle with major changes or new environments

English Bulldog

Friendliness
5/5

Affectionate and gentle with family and children

Intelligence
3/5

Learns basic commands with some patience

Energy Level
2/5

Prefers lounging over vigorous physical activity

Playfulness
3/5

Enjoys play but tires fairly quickly

Adaptability
4/5

Adjusts well to most living environments

Care needs

Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements

Malinois

Grooming:
Minimal grooming needed (weekly)
Exercise:
90–120 minutes daily
Shedding:
Seasonal shedding
Trainability:
Highly trainable
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia

English Bulldog

Grooming:
Minimal grooming needed (weekly)
Exercise:
20–40 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Struggles with heat
Health concerns:

Brachycephalic syndrome, skin fold infections

Suitability

How well each breed fits different living situations and families

Malinois

First-time Owner
2/5

Challenging for beginners

Their intense drive and training needs can overwhelm inexperienced owners

Apartment Living
2/5

Not apartment-friendly

High energy and need for space make small apartments unsuitable

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Excellent match

They thrive with active people who can provide physical and mental exercise

Kids
3/5

Supervision needed

Their energy and herding instincts can be too much for young children

Multiple Pets
3/5

Needs careful introductions

May show dominance or herding behavior with other pets

Being Left Alone
1/5

Poor fit

They can develop anxiety or destructive habits if left alone for long periods

English Bulldog

First-time Owner
4/5

Good option

Easygoing, low-maintenance nature suits owners with limited dog experience

Apartment Living
5/5

Excellent fit

Moderate exercise needs and calm demeanor work well in small living spaces

Active Lifestyle
2/5

Not ideal

Low stamina and breathing issues make them unsuited for high-activity lifestyles

Kids
5/5

Very suitable

Gentle, patient, and tolerant with young children when properly socialized

Multiple Pets
4/5

Usually compatible

Generally sociable but may need guidance with other pets, especially dogs

Being Left Alone
1/5

Not recommended

They struggle with long periods alone and are prone to separation anxiety

Breed strengths

What each breed excels at and their best qualities

Malinois

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

English Bulldog

  • Affectionate with family members
  • Generally good with children
  • Low exercise requirements
  • Minimal grooming needs
  • Adaptable to apartment living

Challenges & considerations

Potential challenges and considerations for each breed

Malinois

  • 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

English Bulldog

  • Prone to respiratory problems
  • High risk of overheating
  • Susceptible to skin infections
  • Can be stubborn during training
  • Tends to drool frequently

Ready to choose your perfect breed?

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