History and origin: A herding breed originating in Belgium, possibly related to Bouvier des Flandres, German Shepherd Dog and Dutch Shepherd. Used extensively for centuries by the Belgian shepherds and later as a war dog.  Introduced to North America by soldiers returning from war. With several coat types appearing, it was decided early on in the breed discovery to banish breeding between different coat types but this was later encouraged for diversity. The Malinois coat type was developed in the Mechelon region and was the most popular coat type used by the herdsman at that time. Recognized by AKC in 1959.

General Appearance: medium size, robust and athletic. Square build.  Long triangular head, upright prick ears. The breed is active, with proud head carriage. Nose is black and teeth meet in level or scissors bite. Back is level and chest is deep but not wide. Trotting movement is free and easy. Size: males 24-26 inches 60-80 lbs    females 22-24 inches. 40-60 lb

Coat and Colour: Malinois coat is short and double coated with dense undercoat. Longer around neck. Typical colour is fawn to mahogany with black overly. Black mask, and ears. Coat is easy care. Brush regularly with a stiff bristled brush.  Bathe when necessary. This breed sheds a great deal.

Feeding:  any quality kibble or raw, fed twice daily.

Training and Obedience. Early training and socialization is absolutely essential. Breed excels in a variety of performance events including obedience, herding, tracking, dock diving, scent detection. Police and military dog.

Activity: Needs daily mental and physical exercise. Does not adapt well to inactivity or continuous confinement.  Over arousal in certain situations requires an observant owner who will redirect and help the young dog with self control.

Temperament: Active and Alert. Naturally guardy, protective and territorial.   Not a breed for a sedentary family. Guarding tendencies in the Malinois create  high prey drive.  Requires consistent and firm early discipline from a vigilant owner.