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.
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.
