Breed sheet: The Malinois

The Malinois Shepherd is a breed of dog originating from Belgium, known for its intelligence, versatility and physical strength. These dogs are often used as working dogs, particularly for protection, search and rescue, but can also be good family companions.

The Malinois is a medium to large dog with a short, dense coat. Their coat color is usually fawn with black markings on the ears, head and tail. Their bodies are muscular and athletic, giving them an impressive appearance.

These dogs are very intelligent and need daily mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They are also very energetic and need regular exercise to release their energy.

The Malinois Shepherd is known for its versatility as a working dog. They are often used as protection and defense dogs, thanks to their intelligence and ability to follow their master's instructions. They are also trained to carry out search and rescue, using their keen sense of smell to detect hidden people or objects.

Although they are often used for work, Malinois Shepherds can also be good family companions. They are loyal and affectionate to their family, but can be reserved around strangers. They can also be protective of their homes and families, but they need proper training and socialization to learn to control their natural aggression.

Due to their constant need for mental stimulation and exercise, Malinois Shepherds are not suited to apartment living. They need a spacious yard where they can run and play, and they should be taken for walks daily. They can also benefit from regular training sessions and games to keep their minds active.

In summary, the Malinois is an intelligent and versatile breed of dog, known for its ability to work collaboratively with humans. They can be good family companions but need an active and devoted owner to meet their exercise needs