02/29/2024
Puppies on the way, Max finally convinced Nyla to extend the family ;)
The Belgian Malinois (MAL-in-wah) was named after a Belgian town called Malines (French name for Mechelen). There are different types of Belgian Shepherds, which are breed variations and were named after cities in Belgium. You have the Malinois, Groenendael, Tervuren or Tervueren, and the Laekenois.
The Malinois was originally bred for stock herding, mainly cattle and sheep. Because of their high endurance, loyalty, willingness to work, eagerness to please, they are now being utilized in a variety of areas. Malinois are very protective and intelligent by nature. They have a mixture of ingredients that will make the perfect working dog. That is what they were born to do, work! A Malinois that is not being exercised, trained, or has a job can easily develop neurotic and destructive behaviors. They have to have an outlet, do not let it be your couch, clothes, furniture, etc. Their energy level stays puppy like until they are about 5 years old. Then it slowly decreases (at least you hope so).
Over the recent years, Belgian Malinois have become more and more popular with law enforcement and the military. The Navy Seals were one of the first military units to incorporate the Malinois. They are lighter and more agile than a German Shepherd and their lack of fear makes them an excellent candidate to repel with from high buildings or jump out of airplanes. It was a Malinois that apprehended Osama Bin Laden. They are utilized for their agility, obedience, tracking, scent detection, Schutzhund, and guard work. A well trained Malinois has the ability to excel in every aspect of protection, scent and tracking, making them a 3 for 1 special, multi-purpose K-9.
Anybody interested in owning a Malinois as their first dog - DON’T. In most cases, those are the dogs that will end up in shelters or worse, put down because they bit someone. One should do extensive research, talk to Malinois owners, meet up with them. Visit an obedience competition, or decoy training. If you are still interested and you are able to make the time and commitment, find a K-9 trainer with Malinois experience specifically. I personally recommend and prefer an owner training course under supervision of a professional K-9 trainer. It not only helps you bond with your Mal but also gives you the tools to understand their behavior and ability to continue their training. Make sure your schedule allows ample time for daily exercise and snuggles. Mals are extremely affectionate. The more time you can invest, the less you will regret owning a Malinois. Lastly, be prepared to have your life turned upside down, with a “Maligator” aka “Fur Missile”, your life will never be the same, that includes going to be bathroom by yourself.
