Belgian Malinois vs German Shepherds: Which is Right for You?

Belgian Malinois vs German Shepherds: Which is Right for You?

Belgian Malinois and German Shepherds are two of the most popular working dog breeds in the world. Both breeds are intelligent, loyal, and protective, but they also have some key differences.

Breeding

Both Belgian Malinois and German Shepherds were originally bred for herding. However, over time, their breeding has become more specialized. Physicality-wise, Belgian Malinois are now predominantly bred for agility, speed, and health while German Shepherds are bred for strength, power and size. This difference in breeding is reflected in their physical appearance and temperament.

Appearance

Belgian Malinois are typically smaller and leaner than German Shepherds. They have a more athletic build, with a long, slender neck and a long, sloping tail. Their coat usually is short and dense, and it comes in a variety of fawn, black and tan colors.

German Shepherds are larger and more beefy than Belgian Malinois. They have a broader/deeper chest and a more sloped rump. Their coat can be short, medium, or long, and it comes in a variety of colors, including black, tan, and sable.

Temperament

Belgian Malinois are known for their high energy levels and intense work ethic. They are also very emotional, intelligent and trainable. However, they can also be demanding and require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. If these needs are not met, they can become destructive and develop separation anxiety.

German Shepherds are also intelligent and trainable, but they are generally more laid-back and independent than Belgian Malinois. They are also known for their loyalty and protectiveness. However, they can also be prone to separation anxiety and barking.

Trainability/Bond

Both Belgian Malinois and German Shepherds are highly trainable dogs. However, Belgian Malinois can be more challenging for new owners due to their high energy levels, short attention span and often intense drive for work. German Shepherds are generally easier to train, but they can be quite stubborn at times.

Both breeds bond strongly with their owners. However, Belgian Malinois can develop an an anxious/needy attachment whereas German Shepherds tend to be able to settle more easily due to their independent instincts.

Lifestyles & Requirements

Belgian Malinois are best suited for active lifestyles. They often need a large amount of exercise and mental stimulation. They are not well-suited for most dog owners.

German Shepherds are also best suited for active lifestyles, but they are more tolerant of being left alone than Belgian Malinois. They can also be good family dogs, but they like all dogs, should be supervised around young children.

When Not to Get

You should not get a Belgian Malinois or German Shepherd if you are not prepared to provide them with the exercise and mental stimulation they need. It is highly advised to not get one of these breeds if you are a first-time dog owner.

Which Breed is Right for You?

If you are looking for a highly active dog that is intelligent and trainable, and you are willing to learn a whole new way of living, then a Belgian Malinois may be the right breed for you. However, be prepared to have your whole life turned to revolve around your dog.

If you are looking for a loyal and protective dog that is also potentially good with children, then a German Shepherd may be the right breed for you. However, be sure to supervise your German Shepherd around young children as well as teach your children to to respect a dogs space.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which breed is right for you is to consider your lifestyle, do a lot of research, talk with MULTIPLE owners of both breeds and meet several dogs from both breeds to see which one you connect with more.