Originally bred in Europe for the purpose of herding sheep, the Belgian Malinois is also used for policework and make good guide dogs for the blind.

Although the Belgian Malinois can make a good pet, this breed at its core is a working dog and will be happiest when given a task or helping with something. While that may not always be possible, you can still keep your Belgian Malinois happy. The Belgian Malinois is a dog that requires a lot of training either by you or by a professional, in order to form a loving relationship with your dog. They do require a careful eye and a strong hand; positive reinforcement is a must with this dog or your Belgian Malinois will become aggressive or stubborn. They are intensely loyal dogs; once accustomed to you and your family, the Belgian Malinois will become very loyal, and guard you faithfully. They are, at heart, working dogs that will find a task when none is given, and most likely, that task will be protecting you. Be careful, though; they do not like the presence of strangers in your home. While this can help with robbers, they might be a bit rough towards visiting relatives or friends that do not come over very often and have not had much exposure to your dog. The Belgian Malinois has a highly developed brain, and is gifted with a canine intelligence uncommon among other dogs. They will most assuredly strike you as being fairly independent - they do not require a lot of attention from you and can handle themselves when the need arises. They are relatively passive dogs that will only bite when they feel seriously threatened. Overall, the Belgian Malinois is an amazingly loyal dog that will find a happy home with you.

The Belgian Malinois is a sheepdog, and thus, is effectively built for a life on the plains. They are sturdy dogs with a heavy bone structure and males stand at about 25 inches at the shoulder, while females are about an inch shorter. They have erect ears and a brownish-gold coat with some deep black gradients along its back. A low-held, fanned tail wags occasionally, and the legs are clearly built for running. This dog has a proud chest, and its stomach tapers off between its legs. A regal head is accompanied by a knowingly intelligent facial expression; the muzzle dipped in black. They have a double coat, which consists of fawn or dark mahogany hairs with black tips. A small white spot on the chest or white toe tips are permissible in this breed.

The Belgian Malinois is effectively bred as a sheepdog in many European countries. Belgian Malinois received their name from the region of Malines in Belgium, where they originate. The Belgian Malinois shares a common history with the Belgian Laekenois, Belgian Tervuren and the Belgian Sheepdog. While the AKC lists all of these dogs as distinct breeds, other breed organizations consider them to be variations of the same breed.

The Belgian Malinois can be prone to cancer and/or seizures, von Willibrand's Disease, thyroid problems, hip dysplasia,as well as skin and eye problems. It is highly suggested that you have your Belgian Malinois checked out by your veterinarian to see if it has any serious problems. You also need to groom this dog on a regular basis to prevent its shorthaired coat from getting out of hand.

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