German Malinois

Dog Breed Profile

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German Malinois History

The German shepherd originated in Germany in the mid-19th century. The ancestors of the present-day German Shepherd were developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, an Alsatian breeder. The formal recognition of the German Shepherd took place as a distinct type in 1899. The origin of the word “Malinois” is disputed. Some claim that it is named after the malinois, a type of Belgian sheepdog, or after the malin, a northern European fox. Others claim it was named after the French town of Malines.

Time of Origin

Unknown

Country of Origin

Unknown

German Malinois Physical Characteristics

The German Malinois is a small, medium-to-large sized breed of herding dogs that originated in Germany. The breed was developed to work livestock such as cattle and sheep. They have a high trot and are known for their speed. They weigh between 50 and 60 pounds and stand between 18 and 22 inches high at the shoulders. They have a thick, coarse double coat that is either fawn, red, brindle, or a mixture of these colors. The German Malinois has a docked tail and pointed ears.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Black

Coat Colors

Black, Cream, Red, Silver, Blue, Fawn, Sable, Gray

Height Range

Male Height Range: 24 – 26 inches

Female Height Range: 22 – 24 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 60 – 85 lbs

Female Weight Range: 45 – 60 lbs

German Malinois Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

10-12 yrs

German Malinois Health Concerns

Hip And Elbow Dysplasia, Bloat, Heart Diseases and Disorders, Hemophilia, Idiopathic Epilepsy, Eye Diseases and Disorders

German Malinois Temperament and Behaviour

The German Malinois is smart, athletic, and protective. They are proud and dominant, but are also loving and sensitive. They are extremely loyal to their owners, and are highly recommended for experienced dog owners. They respond well to reward-based training and are usually easy to train.

German Malinois Activity Requirements

German Malinois are popular police, military, and guard dogs. They are strong, obedient, and loyal. If you are looking for a dog that will be very protective of your family, a Malinois is a good pick. A daily walk or jog is a great way to keep your Malinois happy and healthy. They do need regular exercise, but they don’t need a ton of space. If you live in an apartment or don’t have a yard, a Malinois is a good choice.

Miles Per Day

14 miles

Activity Per Day

120 minutes

Daily Food

3 cups

Kennel Club Recognition

American Kennel Club

Not Recognized

German Malinois is part of the Unclassified group.

Visit the American Kennel Club website.

The Kennel Club

Not Recognized

German Malinois is part of the Unclassified group.

Visit the Kennel Club website.

Australian National Kennel Council

Not Recognized

German Malinois is part of the Unclassified group.

Visit the Australian National Kennel Council website.

Canadian Kennel Club

Not Recognized

German Malinois is part of the Unclassified group.

Visit the Canadian Kennel Club website.