Best Brush For Belgian Malinois? The 185 Detailed Answer

We get asked a lot about the Belgian Malinois and the weather. How do they behave in extreme heat or cold? Here is our best answer.

The Malinois is a dog known for having what is known as a double coat. Dogs with a double coat have the pretty one you see when you look, but they also have a woolly coat underneath. The layer underneath (the woolly coat) is thick and close to the skin. This layer is the insulation that protects you from the elements.

In winter, the coat forms a barrier against wind, snow and freezing temperatures. That is why these dogs do not pay attention to snow, wind and the like. To say they don’t feel the bad weather wouldn’t be fair, but with weather that makes us think of hypothermia, Malinois think it’s a little chilly today.

In hot weather, the undercoat forms a barrier that prevents the sun and hot weather from seeping past the glossy coat we see above. It’s like their built-in air conditioning. They’re great for hot or cold weather and it all comes back to this double coat.

Last but not least, the issue of caring for a double-coated dog. It’s very simple and not much different than a normal dog. Brushing the dog once a week with a really good brush is one of the keys to a happy friend. We use the Furminator brush, which you can buy on eBay for very good prices. Unless your dog gets dirty from playing outside, etc., a bath once a month will suffice. This is difficult to advise as the environment is different in each part of the country. The main thing is that your dog’s skin does not become dry from bathing too often.

Just as the Belgian Malinois is a dog for many purposes and jobs, it is also a dog for many environments and does great indoors or out.

1. Key Features

AKC Group: Beware

Hat Height: 22-26 inches

22-26 inch Weight: 55-65 pounds

55-65 pounds Life Expectancy: 12-14 years

The Belgian Malinois, or simply Malinois, is one of the 4 breeds subclassed as Belgian Shepherd Dogs. This classification also includes the Tervurens, Groenendaels, and Laekenois, each named for the area where they were first bred.

The ears are triangular. Malis have almond-shaped, medium-sized eyes that are brown to dark brown.

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The tail has a strong base – when the dog is alert it will lift with a slight curve that doesn’t hook.

The Belgian Malinois has a short coat with a dense, weather-resistant undercoat. The coat is short around the head, ears and lower legs, but slightly longer around the neck to form a slight collar.

Coat color ranges from rich fawn to red and mahogany to black with black hair tips. The ears and mask are black.

The Malinois is often confused with a German Shepherd. They have similar colors and body shapes.

2. Where they came from

The history of the breed is closely intertwined with that of its Belgian shepherd brothers. All 4 species were bred and often crossed in Belgium in the late 19th century.

According to The Complete Dog Book: 20th Edition by the American Kennel Club (AKC):

“Because early breeders cared about type and character, many crossbreeds took place. … We still see the impact of these breeds today when long-haired puppies are born in Belgian Malinois litters.”

The Malinois was first bred in Malines – hence the name.

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The first official standard for the Belgian Shepherd Dogs, which were not yet divided into 4 breeds, was developed in 1892.

Around these dogs, several breed clubs emerged. For example, the Fédération Cynologique International (World Dog Organization) was founded in 1912.

The Malinois were briefly mentioned in the United States by the AKC in January 1908 and described how 5 Belgian Shepherds were added to the New York City Police Department.

From 1911 through World War II, the Belgian Malinois was popular with Americans. After the war, however, interest waned, and although it was officially recognized by the AKC in 1959, the breed was relegated to the club’s Miscellaneous class.

Interest in dogs slowly grew again. By 1963 there were enough competitors to bring the Malinois into the Working Group to compete.

In 1983 the Malinois was transferred to the Herding group, where it remains today.

3. How friendly are they?

Malis are intelligent, determined and hardworking.

The American Belgian Malinois Club (ABMC) says, “Malinois are good with children and other animals when properly introduced or raised with them. However, this dog can also be protective, territorial, possessive and jealous.”

Socialize your Malinois from puppyhood. Otherwise, they may become shy or touchy.

This breed needs firm leadership and plenty of physical and mental exercise to discourage destructive behavior.

As a herding breed, the Malinois can exhibit instinctive behaviors such as: B. the pinching of the heels or the circling of people. These dogs may try to dominate other pets or smaller animals in the household.

Although the Belgian Malinois is an impressive breed of dog, it requires time and training from the family and should not be added to the household without careful consideration.

4. Is this the right dog for you?

need for exercise

HIGH: Malis were bred to work and require a lot of exercise. When possible and safe, off-leash time can help your dog expend some energy.

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If a Malinois is left alone for too long or not properly exercised, boredom can lead to more destructive behaviors.

care needs

LOW: The Belgian Malinois has a short coat but a dense undercoat, so it should be brushed regularly.

This breed sheds lightly for most of the year but typically has 2 heavier shedding periods. Bathe as needed to keep the coat’s waterproofing intact.

health problems

LOW: The Belgian Malinois is a fairly healthy breed, but some diseases are a little more common:

Watch the outstanding movements of this beautiful and intelligent Mali:

5. Where to adopt one

Many Belgian Malinois are waiting for good homes in shelters across the United States. Start your search now at our online pet adoption center.

You can choose a breeder, but please beware of puppy mills. Good breeders have health information about their animals readily available. The ABMC also operates a Belgian Malinois Rescue.

Additional Resources

The Belgian Malinois is an elegant, well proportioned, natural, medium sized, square dog.

It conveys the impression of elegant robustness. He’s a hardy dog ​​used to living outdoors, with a coat built to withstand the humid Belgian climate. His elegance and his expression testify to great strength of character and make him a proud representative of the herding dog breeds. The Belgian Malinois is an enthusiastic and fast dog with a natural urge to move. Males are 24 to 26 inches tall and weigh 55 to 75 pounds (25 to 34 kilograms). Females are 22 to 24 inches tall and weigh 40 to 60 pounds (18 to 27 kilograms).

The coat should be comparatively short and straight, hard enough to withstand the elements, with a dense undercoat. It should be very short on the head, ears and lower legs. The hair is slightly longer around the neck where it forms a collar and on the tail and back of the thighs. The coat should conform to the body without protruding or drooping.

The base color is a rich fawn to mahogany, with black tips on the hair giving a layered look. The mask and ears are black. The Belgian Malinois is a double-coated breed and is generally shed twice a year. Getting dirty, bathing, brushing once or twice a week, and trimming their nails will keep your Malinois in top condition.

Personality:

In addition to herding, the Belgian Malinois excels at guarding and law enforcement. drug, bomb and gas detection; search and rescue; Persecution; Obedience; Tobogganing; Agility; and therapy assistance for disabled, sick or elderly people. This dog is demanding and needs an experienced owner. There is a wide range in temperament and aggressiveness. They want nothing more than to be with their family, which makes them unsuitable as kennel dogs.

To live with:

The Belgian Malinois is a very intelligent and obedient dog. He has strong protective and territorial instincts. This breed needs extensive socialization and firm, but not harsh, training from an early age. Belgians are instinctively protective, so they should be very well trained and socialized from an early age. Unless you are specifically involved in a protective sport, you do not need to give your Belgian a protective training as it comes naturally to him. Belgians make excellent pets for the right home as they thrive on loving company. Malinois instinctively exhibit herding behaviors such as chasing and circling, moving effortlessly for hours and chasing people. The dog is good for work and competitive obedience, but not for toddlers who run and scream. A Belgian Malinois will constantly try to keep the toddler in one place!

The Belgian Malinois can live in an apartment with enough exercise. Moderately active indoors, he will do best with at least an average sized garden. He prefers cool climates but adapts easily to others. A Belgian Malinois should live to be 12 to 15 years old.

Story:

The Belgian Malinois is one of the varieties of the Belgian Shepherd Dog. All are named after Belgian villages: Groenendael, Laekenois, Mechelar (Malinois) and Tervuren.

The history of the Belgian Malinois dates back to the 1880s when these dogs (along with German Shepherds, French Shepherds, and Dutch Shepherds) were called Continental Shepherds. In 1891 the Belgian Shepherd Dog Club was formed and a jury found that there was a congruent type of native shepherd that was a square, medium-sized dog with well-set triangular ears. These dogs differed only in texture, color, and hair length. In 1892, the first standard for Belgian Shepherd Dogs was written, recognizing three varieties: long-coated, short-coated and rough-coated dogs.

The Belgian Malinois, along with the Groenendael, was the first variety to appear in the United States in the early 20th century. The Belgian Sheepdog Club of America (the Malinois, Groenendael and Tervuren were all the same breed back then) was formed and the breed began showing in the American Kennel Club in the early 1950s. In 1959, the Belgians split into the three AKC breeds recognized today, the Shepherd, Tervuren, and Malinois.

Why you shouldn’t leave coconut oil on your dog overnight

Coconut oil, especially virgin coconut oil, may have certain health benefits for dogs suffering from skin conditions. According to Healthline, the positive effects of coconut oil are likely due to the oil’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Does that mean you can leave the coconut oil on the dog’s coat overnight? Not necessarily.

Why coconut oil can cause problems

One reason not to leave coconut oil on your dog’s coat overnight is the effects of constipation. For humans, coconut oil has a comedogenic rating of four. This means that the oil is likely to clog pores if left on the skin for too long. The same applies to a dog’s skin. Leaving the coconut oil on the dog’s coat overnight can end up doing more harm than good. For example, dogs with sensitive skin may begin to develop skin conditions such as pimples.

Leaving coconut oil on your dog’s skin overnight can also give him the opportunity to lick a lot of oil from his fur. Dogs who consume too much coconut oil at one time can experience temporary digestive problems like diarrhea. Our general recommendation is not to leave the oil (from the coconut) on the dog’s skin for more than ten minutes.

How to rinse coconut oil off dog’s body

It is important that you are fairly thorough with your rinsing. Our recommendation is to use a mixture of warm water and a cloth. Shampoo may be necessary if the dog’s coat still feels greasy after rinsing.

14.11.2021 | Updated: 07/19/2022 by John | Dog Grooming Published:| Updated by

Disclaimer: The content on MyPetChild.com is for informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis or treatment. When in doubt, always seek the advice of your veterinarian.

Coconut oil has been very trendy in recent years. Studies show that it has several impressive health benefits for humans. Interestingly, many people also give coconut oil to their dogs or apply it to their dogs’ fur. While most studies on coconut oil have been conducted on humans, the results could be applicable to dogs as well. This article examines the benefits and risks of using coconut oil in dogs. Share on Pinterest

May Help With Your Dog’s Skin Issues Using coconut oil to treat skin issues is a common practice with well-known benefits. The beneficial effects are likely due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. One study found that coconut oil was effective in moisturizing the skin of people with xerosis, a condition characterized by dry and itchy skin (1). This study was conducted on humans – not dogs. However, many dog ​​owners and veterinarians claim that when applied topically, coconut oil can help treat dry skin and eczema in dogs. Summary Coconut oil may help treat skin conditions in humans, and some people claim it’s helpful for canine skin as well.

May Improve the Appearance of Your Dog’s Coat Coconut oil can improve the appearance of your dog’s coat. When applied to the skin, it can make hair shinier and less prone to damage. This is because lauric acid, the main fatty acid in coconut oil, has a unique chemical composition that allows it to penetrate hair shafts easily (2). Other types of fat don’t have this ability, so using coconut oil can help keep your dog’s coat healthy and beautiful. Summary The lauric acid in coconut oil has been shown to keep hair healthier than other fatty acids. It can be used to improve the health and appearance of your dog’s coat.

May Help Repel Pests The antimicrobial properties of coconut oil can prevent dogs from being infected by ectoparasites such as ticks, fleas and mange mites. It has also been shown to help eliminate these pests in dogs that are already infected. These effects were confirmed by two studies in which dogs were treated with a coconut oil shampoo (3, 4). In one of these studies, coconut oil also appeared to facilitate wound healing in dogs with ectoparasite bites. This is likely related to coconut oil’s ability to inhibit bacterial growth (4). Additionally, coconut oil has been shown in test-tube studies to kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi (5, 6, 7). Summary Coconut oil can be beneficial for preventing pest infections and treating bites.

Risks Associated with Using Coconut Oil on Dogs Although side effects are rare, there are a few things to consider before using coconut oil on your dog. There is always a risk of an allergic reaction when introducing anything new to your dog’s diet or grooming regimen. If a reaction occurs, stop using it. Some studies have also shown that coconut oil can cause high cholesterol in dogs. In extreme cases, this can lead to the formation of fatty plaques in the arteries ( 8 , 9 ). In addition, the use of coconut oil can lead to weight gain due to its high calorie content. Finally, one study concluded that a diet high in saturated fat decreased dogs’ odor detection ability. More research is needed to better understand this finding, but you should be careful with coconut oil if you have a working dog (10). Therefore, you should consult your veterinarian before adding coconut oil to your dog or applying it to your dog’s coat. Summary Coconut oil can cause high cholesterol, hardening of the arteries, and weight gain in some dogs. If your dog is prone to any of these conditions, consult a veterinarian before using.

How to Use Coconut Oil on Dogs Coconut oil is generally safe for dogs when eaten in small amounts or applied to their skin or coat. When it comes to choosing a brand, virgin coconut oil is best, as most of the benefits of coconut oil have been observed in this type. According to some sources, coconut oil can generally be given to dogs once or twice a day with meals. The amount you give your dog depends on its size. If your dog is overweight or obese, don’t give him coconut oil more than once a day. Vets emphasize the importance of starting coconut oil slowly. This way you can observe how your dog reacts to it. Start by giving small dogs 1/4 teaspoon daily or large dogs 1 tablespoon (15 ml) daily and gradually increase the amount. If your dog is tolerating well after 2 weeks, increase the dose to 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds (5 ml per 4.5 kg) of body weight. Due to a lack of research, these recommendations are not established. Don’t just feed your dog coconut oil. Instead, mix it with your dog’s regular food. This keeps their diet varied and nutritious. All dogs fed coconut oil should be monitored for weight gain, diarrhea, and other symptoms that may indicate an intolerance. Keep in mind that studies have not found any benefits of using coconut oil in dog food. On the other hand, applying it to your dog’s skin can improve certain skin conditions. When applying the coconut oil topically, rub a small amount onto your hands and then gently pat the fur, running your fingers through the fur and massaging a little into the skin. Summary Coconut oil can be fed to dogs or applied to the skin. Start slow and gradually increase the amount you give your dog.

The Belgian Malinois is one of four breeds of Belgian Shepherd Dog developed in Belgium in the late 19th century. The four varieties are Malinois (fawn mahogany, short coat with black mask), Tervuren (fawn mahogany, long coat with black mask), Laekenois (fawn, rough coat), and Groenendael (black, long coat). . The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes all but the Laekenois as separate breeds in the United States, while the United Kennel Club recognizes all four types as one.

The Club du Chien de Berger Belge (Belgian Shepherd Dog Club) was formed in September 1891 to determine which of the many different breeds of dog was representative only of the Shepherd Dogs developed in Belgium. In November of the same year, breeders and breeders met on the outskirts of Brussels to study sheepdogs from that area. After much deliberation, veterinary professor Adolphe Reul and a jury concluded that the native sheepdogs of this province were square, medium-sized dogs with well-set triangular ears and very dark brown eyes, differing only in the texture, color, and length of the hair. Later studies of dogs in other Belgian provinces gave similar results.

In 1892, Professor Reul wrote the first standard for Belgian Shepherd Dogs, which recognized three varieties: long-coated dogs, short-coated dogs and rough-coated dogs. The Club du Chien de Berger Belge asked the Societe Royale Saint-Hubert (the Belgian equivalent of the AKC) for breed status, but was turned down. In 1901, however, the Belgian Shepherd was finally recognized as a breed.

Today’s Malinois can be traced back to a breeding pair owned by a shepherd from Laken named Adrien Janssens. In 1885 he bought a pale, fawn, wire-haired dog named Vos I or Vos de Laeken from a cattle dealer in northern Belgium. Janssens used Vos I (meaning fox in Flemish) to herd his flock and also bred him to a short-haired, brindle brown bitch named Lise (also known as Lise de Laeken or Liske de Laeken). After this mating, Vos I was mated to his daughters, creating a line of very homogeneous gray wire-haired and short-haired and light brown wire-haired and short-haired dogs. Today, Vos I and Lise de Laeken are considered not only the ancestors of the modern Belgian Shepherd Dogs, but also of the Bouvier des Flandres and the Dutch Shepherd Dogs.

The breeders decided to give each of the different varieties of the Belgian Shepherd Dog their own name. In 1898, the town of Malines founded an association for the promotion of the Belgian Shepherd Dog Fawn Shorthair. Louis Huyghebaert, an early breeder under the kennel name ‘ter Heide’, as well as judge, author and ‘Godfather des Malinois’ (and the Bouviers) had done much together with the Malines Club to popularize these shorthairs, so the name ‘ Malinois” was associated with the fawn-colored shorthair.

In 1897, a year before the Malines club was founded, Huyghebaert suggested that, since there were not many sheep left in Belgium, the sheepdogs should have field trials that would demonstrate their intelligence, obedience and loyalty. From this recommendation, German Shepherd Dressage Tests were developed, testing a dog’s ability to jump and perform other exercises. The first dressage test, held in Malines on July 12, 1903, was won by M. van Opdebeek and his Malinois Cora van’t Optewel.

Belgian Shepherds have also been used as guard dogs and draft dogs. They were the first dogs used by the Belgian police. Before World War II, international police dog trials became very popular in Europe, and Belgian dogs won a number of prizes at the trials.

By the time World War I broke out, many Belgian Shepherd Dogs were being used by the military for a range of duties including messenger dogs, Red Cross dogs, ambulance chariot dogs and, according to some, light machine gun chariot dogs.

Several outstanding Malinois kennels were established in Belgium in the 1920s and 1930s. In the early decades of the 20th century, Malinois and Groenendael were the most popular varieties of Belgian Shepherds exported to other countries. At that time many were exported to the Netherlands, France, Switzerland, Canada, the United States, Argentina and Brazil.

In 1911, two Groenendaels and two Malinois were registered as “German Shepherds” by the AKC. In 1913 the AKC changed the name to the Belgian Sheepdogs. The first dogs were imported by Josse Hanssens of Norwalk, Connecticut. He sold the two Malinois to L.I. De Winter from Guttenberg, New Jersey. De Winter produced several litters of Malinois under his kennel name Winterview.

After World War I, many American soldiers brought back Malinois and other Belgian Shepherds from Europe, and AKC registrations grew rapidly. The first Belgian Sheepdog Club of America was formed in 1924 and soon became a member club of the AKC. In 1924 and 1925, Walter Mucklow, an attorney in Jacksonville, Florida, popularized the Malinois through articles he wrote for the AKC Gazette. He also briefly bred Malinois under the Castlehead Kennel name.

By the late 1920s, the Belgian Shepherds Groenendael and Malinois had risen in popularity and were among the top five breeds. During the Great Depression, dog breeding was a luxury most could not afford and the first Belgian Sheepdog Club of America ceased to exist. In the 1930s, some Malinois were registered with the AKC as imports trickled into the country. Even after the Great Depression, Malinois were so few in number and interest in the breed had declined so much that the AKC placed them in the Other class at AKC shows in the 1930s and 1940s.

In 1949 a second Belgian Sheepdog Club of America was formed in Indiana. That same year, John Cowley imported two Malinois and established his Netherlair kennels. He showed several of his dogs and several people took an interest in them. In the 1960s, more people bred and showed Malinois. In March 1992, the American Belgian Malinois Club received AKC parent club status.

Over the past decade, Belgian Malinois dogs have received a lot of attention for their work in the military, drug detection agencies, search and rescue, and police forces across the country. As a result, many Malinois have been imported into the United States in recent years.

In 2019, a Belgian Malinois named Conan was injured in a military operation against Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. The mission was a success and Conan was honored as a hero at the White House after making a full recovery.

The Belgian Malinois is a light, graceful, square-built dog covered in a short, straight, weatherproof coat that comes in fawn, red, and mahogany — with or without black tips. It has a powerful, flat head with a sharp muzzle, a black nose, and triangular ears pointing straight up. His dark brown eyes have an alert and intelligent expression. It has a thick neck, a straight back, and a low-hanging tail. Overall, it exudes strength without oppression.

Properties Protective

Sensitive

obedience

Loving

Hard working

Reserved Ideal Human Companion Active, sporty types

farmers and ranchers

Familys

Experienced dog handlers

what they want to live with

The Belgian Malinois is a loyal, kind, and affectionate friend. He may come from a strong working dog background, but most of all he craves companionship and family time. An alert and vigilant companion to children, this dog thrives on regular good-natured play, cuddles and conversation.

It is very protective of its family, property, and territory, making it a passionate but reserved guard dog. It can be a bit shy around new people but tends to relax when it realizes there is no threat to the household. Like other herding breeds, he or she may occasionally “herd” family members and household guests.

This dog has a great work ethic. It responds well to commands, learns new tasks quickly, and gets the job done with pleasure. No wonder the Belgian Malinois is employed around the world as a police dog.

things you should know

The Belgian Malinois was built to be busy. If you cannot provide a field of sheep for the flock, you should provide consistent, positive training. Keep your Belgian Malinois busy, active, and socially challenged from an early age. It really thrives on love, attention, affection and tasks.

A healthy Belgian Malinois can live up to 14 years. A relatively healthy breed, some Belgian Malinois can develop skin allergies, eye problems, and hip dysplasia. It’s also fairly easy to maintain, only needing an occasional brushing. Be careful not to bathe it too often: soap can remove its natural impregnation.

Belgian Malinois History

Named after the Belgian town of Malines, the Belgian Malinois is one of the four standard German Shepherds in the country. A favorite among Belgian shepherds, the Malinois has been carefully bred to be hardy and reliable farm and field workers. Introduced in the United States in the early 1900s, they didn’t really catch on until the 1960s. Today, they are celebrated for their herding behavior, obedience, agility, work ethic, and camaraderie.

Continue reading: Meet the Belgian Malinois: A Tough Customer

1. Rule out medical problems

Before beginning any treatment for a dog for separation anxiety, always have your dog thoroughly evaluated for medical issues first, especially if symptoms appear suddenly.

medication. There are a number of medications that can lead to frequent urination and house soiling. For example, diuretics and steroids cause increased thirst. This leads to increased urination and can lead to your puppy accidentally urinating indoors. If your dog is taking any medications, please consult your veterinarian to find out whether or not they may be contributing to these problems.

2. Rule out these behavior problems

urine marking. Some dogs urinate indoors because they are scent markers. Most males and some females who have scent marks will lift one leg and urinate small amounts on vertical surfaces.

Some dogs urinate indoors because they are scent markers. Most males and some females who have scent marks will lift one leg and urinate small amounts on vertical surfaces. youth destruction. Many young dogs engage in destructive chewing or digging while their owners are at home or away.

Many young dogs engage in destructive chewing or digging while their owners are at home or away. Boredom. Some dogs can be disruptive when left alone simply because they are bored and looking for something to do. These dogs don’t usually appear anxious while exhibiting the behavior, it’s more due to a lack of mental stimulation.

Some dogs can be disruptive when left alone simply because they are bored and looking for something to do. These dogs don’t usually appear anxious while exhibiting the behavior, it’s more due to a lack of mental stimulation. Excessive barking or howling. Some dogs bark or howl in response to various triggers in their environment (e.g., unfamiliar sights and sounds), not out of fear. They usually talk when their owners are home and when they are away.

3. Treatment of mild/moderate separation anxiety

If your dog has a mild case of separation anxiety, counterconditioning can reduce or solve the problem. Counterconditioning is a behavior modification process that converts an animal’s anxious, anxious, or aggressive response into a comfortable, relaxed one instead. For separation anxiety in particular, counterconditioning focuses on making a connection between being alone and positive things like delicious treats or exciting chew toys. Over time, the dog learns that whatever caused their fear can actually lead to good things for them.

We recommend giving your dog a KONG® filled with something really tasty. A KONG toy is a non-toxic rubber toy with a hollow center that can be filled with treats your pup loves. It provides dogs with a healthy outlet for their natural urge to chew and lick. Try filling yours with low-fat cream cheese, spray cheese, or low-fat peanut butter (be careful to avoid xylitol), frozen banana and cottage cheese, or canned dog food and dry food. You can even freeze them overnight to keep your dog entertained longer.

👉 Be sure to remove these special toys as soon as you return home so your dog has sole access to them and the quality treats. Also keep in mind that this approach only works for mild cases of separation anxiety – very anxious dogs won’t usually eat even the tastiest treats when their owners aren’t home.

4. Treatment of severe separation anxiety

Severe cases of separation anxiety require a more complex desensitization program. In these cases, it is important not to act too quickly. Gradually acclimate your dog to being alone, starting with lots of short separations and slowly increasing the duration over many weeks of daily sessions.

👉 There’s nothing wrong with asking for help if you’re not sure where to start. The ASPCA has a great resource to help you find professional help for your pup in your area.

Notes before departure

A good place to start for a very fearful dog is to work on desensitizing them to “cues before you leave”. These are the simple tasks you complete as you prepare to leave the house (like grabbing your coat, picking up your car keys, or putting on your shoes).

One treatment approach for this “fear of leaving” is to teach your dog that showing these cues does not always mean you are leaving. You can do this by exposing your dog to these cues multiple times a day—without actually leaving him. After your dog doesn’t become anxious when he sees you getting ready to walk, you can proceed with further desensitization.

Staged departures/absences

Now that you can complete your pre-departure chores without causing your pup much anxiety, the next step is to slowly introduce him to extended periods of alone time.

Puppies have very sharp teeth – making biting one of the worst parts of puppy ownership…but wrestling with your new pup is just so much fun!

It’s hard to find that balance between teaching your pup not to bite and having fun with your dog.

However, some puppies seem to bite more than others. This can lead to many questions. How much play biting is normal? Why are they doing it? How do I teach my pup not to bite — or at least be gentle?

As with almost everything in life, there is no easy answer. Let’s go through each of these questions one by one. But first, know this: all puppies bite, and it’s normal.

If your pup nips at you while playing, don’t freak out – that alone doesn’t mean you have an aggressive pup on your hands!

However, you have to draw the line somewhere. If your pup is not taught proper boundaries, he will continue to bite into adulthood.

Why do dogs play biting?

Puppies explore their world with their mouths – after all, they don’t have hands! While we can’t know exactly why your puppy is biting, there are many reasons dogs bite.

Playful biting teaches bite inhibition. Playing with those super sharp puppy teeth when biting can hurt a lot. If a female dog or siblings feel a puppy is biting too hard, stop playing with the puppy. This form of punishment is very effective in teaching puppies that playing biting shouldn’t hurt. Dogs that learn to control the pressure of their teeth are said to have bite inhibition.

In just a few minutes you will learn how to teach your puppy good bite inhibition.

Play bite feels good. When puppies are teething, it feels good to chew on things. While it’s ideal for your pup to gnaw on things like nylabones, kongs, and other chew toys, many puppies still choose to play biting. They put fingers, toes, and just about anything in their mouths because it feels good on their growing teeth.

Help curb this type of biting by giving your pup better things to chew on – like chew toys specifically designed for teething puppies!

Playing bite is a game. Play is an important part of growing up for dogs. Puppies learn how to chase, attack and bite their “prey” by practicing on their littermates – and you!

That’s not scary, though – your pup is just practicing life skills that were important to his ancestors. Human skin is much more sensitive than canine skin, so it will hurt you more than your pup’s mother or siblings.

In short, play biting is perfectly normal puppy behavior. Adult dogs also play bite, as dogs are one of the species that continue to play into adulthood (although you probably won’t find them at improv classes).

Adult dogs play biting because it’s a fun game (in the dog world, not always in the human world).

How much play biting is normal?

You’ll hate me for saying this, but the answer is, “It depends.”

Before you go, listen to me!

Dogs are all individuals, just like humans. They have their own preferences, play styles, and comfort levels.

Let’s take human brawls as a comparative example. Not all people love to beat the life out of one another – but some do. Some people just like a bit of a fight, some only like a fight in certain situations, and some hate it all. Dogs are the same – with one major additional caveat.

Dog breeds bred to fight, hunt, or carry things bite more and can bite harder than other breeds. Let’s look at four examples of large playbiters and one example of a less snappy breed.

Remember that all dogs play bites and most dogs play all kinds of bites. These examples only highlight the extremes of dog biting behavior.

The Grab-and-Hold Biter: Belgian Malinois

There’s a reason Belgian Malinois are often referred to as “Malinois.”

These dogs are bred to be super tough biting machines, taking down suspects and police intruders. Their “bite and hold” instinct is one of the most extreme out there.

If you’ve always had almost any other breed and just got your first Belgian Malinois, stay tuned and know that extreme biting is very normal for the breed.

Other grab-and-holders include: Bulldogs, Pitbulls, and Rottweilers.

The grab-and-carry biter: Labrador Retriever

A good, field-bred Labrador Retriever puppy will instinctively want to carry everything around. She may play a bit much – but she is often very gentle compared to a Malinois. Labs often need more training on when to bite than most dogs.

Other grab-and-carriers include: golden retrievers, pointers, and setters.

The Chase-and-Nip Biter: Australian Cattle Dogs

Cattle Dogs, also known as Blue or Red Heelers, are bred to hunt herds of cattle and control their movements by pinching their heels.

This gives Cattle Dogs a strong instinctive desire to chase and bite moving objects. Your new Cattle Dog puppy will be perfectly normal if this is their favorite “game”.

Other chase-and-nippers include: Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, and Corgis.

The pounce-and-shake biter: Jack Russell Terrier

Most terriers are bred to track, hunt, capture and kill rats. This really drives them to grab and shake things – including your toes and pant legs.

Give your terrier another outlet for this instinct to save your fingers and toes from painful bites!

Other stepping stones are: Shiba Inus, Rat Terriers and Schipperkes.

The No-So Biter: Lap Dogs

On the other end of the spectrum, some breeds are really only bred to be lap dogs.

While all dogs still love to play, bite, many of the lap dog breeds are simply less interested in biting than the breeds listed above. Lap dogs include many of the small, white, and fluffy breeds like Shih Tzus and Havanese, as well as dogs like pugs and toy breeds.

Other not so snappy breeds are: Hounds and Livestock Guardian breeds.

You should expect different “normal values” for different dogs. Even if you’ve had Belgian Malinois your whole life, one day you might get the odd “Malinois” who doesn’t love to gnaw on arms. You could also end up with that one pug who loves to chew on their fingers.

Consider your dog’s breed and personality when setting in-game bite expectations—but just because you have a “maligator” doesn’t mean you have to endure bloody forearms all the time.

How much biting is too much?

What constitutes “too much” play biting is a matter of personal preference. Working at the shelter, I sometimes met new owners who were thrilled that their 120-pound American Bulldog loved to jump up and tug at their sleeves. They thought it was cute – I thought it was rude and a bit scary. Her “just right” game bite was my “way, way too much!”

I’ve also had tearful phone calls from puppy owners saying that their new puppy is “vicious and aggressive”. When I met the puppy, he fit my definition of “a normal, healthy puppy with a mouth”. These puppies played with the dogs regularly and appropriately, but families were only used to very gentle pups – or had never had a pup before.

If your dog or puppy bites hard enough to break the skin, you need to work on teaching them to control their mouth right away. Even if your pup is playing, it’s not an appropriate way to interact with people. Start teaching your puppy to control his bite inhibition right away.

How do I teach my puppy to control his play bite?

Now that we know that your pup likely falls into a spectrum of play bites, it’s time to talk about how to control play bites.

Even if you love wrestling your pup and don’t mind a bit of a scuffle, rules surrounding teeth are essential for everyone’s safety and fun.

The good news is that teaching most puppies how to control their playful biting is fairly easy. Here are a few basic tips to get you started:

1. Set rules and stick to them.

If you’re unsure of your rules of the game, how on earth can your pup learn them? Some general rules for playing with puppies could be:

We only play when I start the game. Many owners like to bite in moderation. If you, as the owner, always control when the game starts, you will have more control over when your dog bites. You only use your mouth for toys – not your hands. If you play with puppies or dogs, come armed with a toy. If your dog gets too mouthy, redirect him to play with the toy instead of your hands. Playtime ends when you bite me too hard. This also applies to non-traditional seasons. If your pup is chewing your toes as you read this blog, or your adult dog likes to nibble your sleeves while running, get out of the situation. Your dog will quickly learn that rude biting takes the fun out of it.

These are just some examples. You may need to set fewer limits with some dogs or stricter limits with others – it all depends on the dog’s tendency to bite or bite too hard.

2. Give your puppy appropriate things to chew and bite on.

Since all dogs instinctively like to bite, you need to give your dog things to bite and chew. This gives her an outlet for her instinctive energy and desire to bite. I suggest trying several of the following options:

A flirting stick. These are ideal for dogs that enjoy chasing and grabbing toys.

These are ideal for dogs that enjoy chasing and grabbing toys. Bullysticks and pig ears. Give your dog a chance to exercise their jaw muscles with a good dehydrated treat.

and pig ears. Give your dog a chance to exercise their jaw muscles with a good dehydrated treat. Kongs . Stuffed Kongs are a real lifesaver when your dog feels the need to use their mouth.

. Stuffed Kongs are a real lifesaver when your dog feels the need to use their mouth. tug toy. Tugging with your dog is a great bonding activity and a great way to teach your dog that it’s okay to play with his mouth – under the right circumstances.

I’ve also seen some breeders just tie a strip of polar fleece to a milk jug and let the puppies run around with it. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

3. Quit the game if your puppy bites too hard.

This is one of the most effective ways to teach your pup to control his mouth. When he learns that teeth on human skin (or clothing) stop playing, he will learn that controlling his mouth is worthwhile.

Don’t make a fuss about it. If your pup bites you, simply get up and walk away by placing a baby gate or door between you for a few seconds.

When you come back, come armed with a toy for your pup to chew on instead.

4. Have other dogs teach your pup some gentle but firm lessons.

You’re not a dog, so please don’t waste your time biting your pup back or turning him over “like his mother would.” Use the above method to teach your pup not to bite with people.

You can also have dogs teach her a few lessons if you have appropriate playmates for your pup. Only do this if you know the other dog will not overreact and hurt or startle your pup. Other dogs can be very effective communicators when it comes to letting your pup know when enough is enough!

Just as young human children often learn many social norms through interactions with their peers at school or in other groups, puppies can also learn a lot from their playmates.

If you’re really struggling with teaching your pup to control his biting then you can comment below or contact me on my dog ​​training page – I’ll help you either way!

Have you ever struggled to bite off a puppy? Share your stories and strategies in the comments!

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When you think of loyalty or noble looks in dogs, you probably think of the Belgian Malinois. Resembling sleek German shepherds, these dogs are loved for their perfect blend of sturdy and elegant looks.

The Malinois are working dogs used by the military for a variety of tasks such as: B. Explosives and narcotics detection, people tracking and rescue missions. They are even used as guard dogs in the White House!

At the same time, Belgian Malinois can make amazing pets—if you know how to handle this strong and independent dog breed. No wonder so many people want to know everything about the Belgian Malinois colors!

Do these dogs always have a black mask and can they come in colors other than brown? Here’s what you need to know!

breed history and appearance

The Belgian Malinois is a loyal and intelligent dog breed. These medium-sized canines were bred to be herding dogs. They are a separate breed of German shepherd, although they look similar and have been used for similar tasks.

In fact, Mals belong to Belgian Shepherd Dogs, and they are one of the four breeds that fall into this category. The other three are Belgian Laekenois, Belgian Tervuren and Belgian Groenendael. They are registered in France and Belgium as Chien de Berger Belge.

The Belgian Malinois were named after the town of Malines. There, these dogs were developed by breeders and trainers, as well as by working competitors.

These dogs came to the United States around 1911 and quickly gained popularity. Many Malinois were used in World War I. The Belgian Malinois breed was finally recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1959.

Today, these Belgian Shepherds are used as police dogs, drug-sniffing dogs, military working dogs, and search and rescue dogs.

Overall, these are short-haired, medium-sized dogs that are strong but lean. They have large, pointed ears and elongated faces. Along with Rottweilers, Dobermans, and Pitbulls, they are among the most dangerous of dogs, despite their friendly nature to their human owners.

Their usefulness as guard dogs affects their price, and these can be very expensive dogs—especially if you choose one of the rare Belgian Malinois colors.

Differences between Belgian Malinois dogs and German Shepherds

As previously mentioned, contrary to what many people think, Mals and German Shepherds are not related. In fact, these dogs are more closely related to Border Collies than GSDs!

Here are some of the key differences:

• As the name suggests, Mals were bred in Belgium while GSDs hail from Germany.

• German Shepherds are quite a bit larger than Belgian Malinois.

• Most Belgians have a shorter coat while German Shepherds tend to be fluffier.

Since both descended from German shepherds, they naturally share certain personality traits. Both dog breeds have high energy levels that can be difficult to keep up with. They need a lot of exercise and have a lot of stamina, so they have to play around and run all day.

Both have strong prey drives that can make them unsuitable for small animals and smaller dogs. At the same time, both are popular breeds among military and police dogs.

Finally, the colors of the Belgian Malinois can be very different from the colors you can find in German Shepherds.

Belgian Malinois Coat Type and Grooming

The Belgian Malinois has a short, easy-care double coat. They require little grooming and are fairly clean and odorless dogs, so you won’t be spending a lot of time grooming them.

However, due to their dense undercoat, they are by no means hypoallergenic dogs. You will experience a lot of hair loss and your hair can fly anywhere. This means you will spend a lot of time cleaning afterwards.

To ensure they keep their beautiful coat, you need to make sure these dogs are healthy. To do this, only give him high-quality dog ​​food that is rich in good nutrients. These are active dogs, so make sure they’re eating food that suits their energy levels.

Regular nail trimming is a must and keeps ears clean as they are prone to infection. If necessary, take them to the vet for plucking of the dog’s ears. Also, brush your teeth at least a few times a week.

Many dogs have dental problems, and this can lead to more serious problems later.

Of course, with a breed as distinct as the Belgian Malinois, you will need to dedicate a lot of time to dog training and socialization. It is better to start these dogs early as anything else can lead to behavior problems and Mals can be difficult to manage if you leave them alone.

Belgian Malinois coat colors

When it comes to Belgian Malinois colors, this is where things get a little tricky. This is due to kennel clubs and different breed standards. Let’s explain.

There are many kennel clubs around the world. Four of the largest are the American Kennel Club (AKC), the United Kennel Club (UKC), the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC), and the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI).

Each of these kennel clubs may have their own version of what a particular breed of dog should look like. This leads to the divisions within a dog breed.

For example, you have both a European Doberman and an American Doberman. These two dog breeds used to look and act the same, but over time local breeders adjusted their litters to fit the regional breed standard. Because of this, two dogs of the same breed can look different even though both are purebred.

These kennel clubs also determine which Belgian Malinois colors are allowed and which are frowned upon. This can greatly affect the dog’s appearance.

Of course, the colors we mentioned only apply to purebred Belgian Malinois. Most Mal mixes, such as A breed, such as a Belgian Malinois mix with Labrador, can come in a much wider range of colors – but they are not accepted by the AKC or other major kennel clubs.

Can Belgian Malinois Colors Prove If a Dog Is Purebred?

In short, no, you cannot tell if a Belgian Malinois is a purebred just by looking at them. One reason for this lies in the differences between the breed standards in different breed associations. Second, some dogs may have specific coat colors or patterns due to a disease or genetic condition.

The only way to tell if your Belgian Malinois puppy is purebred or not is to request pedigrees from your breeder or pay for expensive DNA testing. Documentation is the only way to tell a purebred dog from a mutt.

While Belgian Malinois colors are not proof that the dog is purebred, they can determine whether or not you can register your pup in a particular kennel club. This is the main reason why you should always know the breed standard for your dog.

The breed standard can also help you know the expected traits of your pup, such as: B. his physical composition, feet and legs, personality – and acceptable colors.

Belgian Malinois colors and patterns

Most kennel clubs have a list of standard and non-standard colors. Although all are eligible, only dogs of standard colors can enter dog shows and competitions.

For example, according to the AKC, the standard colors of the Belgian Malinois are fawn, fawn sable, red, red sable, and mahogany. However, this is different in some Kennel Clubs. This table shows you what we mean:

Kennel Club Standard Belgian Malinois Colors AKC Fawn, Red, Fawn Sable, Red Sable, Mahogany CKC All shades of Fawn to Mahogany, Black, Brindle, Black with Tan, Gray Fawn, Blue Fawn, White UKC Fawn and Sable with Charcoal FCI Fawn with Black edition

Genetics behind the Belgian Malinois colors

While the genetics behind each dog’s coat color are quite complicated, we’re going to simplify everything to make it clearer to a wider audience.

Overall, there are two main pigments that make a dog’s coat a certain way. These are eumelanin, which causes black and brown colors, and pheomelanin, which causes red and yellow colors.

But as you’ve probably noticed, dogs don’t just come in those colors. So what causes the other shades?

Specific genes change the intensity and dilution of eumelanin and pheomelanin so that it appears a different hue than the base color. Every puppy inherits two color genes, one from each of its parents. That’s why there are so many different shades of a single color!

Also, some genes are dominant while others are recessive. Dominant genes are always visible on the dog’s coat, while it takes two recessive genes for the color or pattern to express itself.

Some breeders intentionally mate two specific dogs to create new colors and shades or to further propagate existing ones. This makes one color more common than another. However, if the sole purpose behind this is to change a dog’s appearance, it is not recommended as it may lead to health problems later on.

Belgian Malinois standard colors

During further discussion of Belgian Malinois colors, we will use the AKC’s breed standard as the norm.

The colors that we will talk about in this article are the colors that can apply to conformation shows. Keep in mind that while considered acceptable, not all Belgian Malinois colors are equally common or rare.

Fawn Belgian Malinois Colors

Fawn is one of the most common Belgian Malinois colors out there. These puppies will have a neat and soft appearance. Most often, the fawn hue tends toward a yellowish-brown color and can vary between very light and dark colors.

Most fawn Belgian Malinois have a black mask that covers most of their face—especially their muzzle, nose, the rims of their eyes, and even their ears! If the fawn is lighter in color, this can create a nice contrast.

Fawn Belgian Malinois should have a black nose and dark brown eyes.

Fawn Sable Belgian Malinois Colors

Fawn Sable Belgian Malinois look like regular Fawn Malinois but with a sable pattern. If you’re wondering what sable is, hair of every base color (fawn in this case) has black tips. This makes them appear darker than regular dogs of the same color.

Many dog ​​owners don’t even know their Belgian Malinois is a sable until the vet or groomer tells them. This is because some Sable Dogs just look like they are a darker shade of a certain color. This is especially the case with dogs that already come in darker colors.

Just like a typical fawn Malinois, a fawn sable Belgian Malinois should have brown eyes and a black nose. However, their black mask may not be as conspicuous as sable dogs already have shades of black in their fur.

Red Belgian Malinois colors

Photo by: @red_belgian_malinois19

As the name suggests, red Belgian Malinois have a coat of a certain shade of red. Red is caused by pheomelanin, a type of pigment responsible for yellows and reds.

These dogs can be as light as ginger or as dark as deep red. Some people even confuse them with a rich fawn coat color. The prominence of their black mask depends on how light their fur is.

Red Malinois are slightly rarer than their fawn counterparts, but they’re still fairly common. Most of these dogs have dark eyes, black ears, and a black nose.

Red sable Belgian Malinois colors

Similar to fawn-sable Belgian Malinois, red sable dogs have black hair tips—only this time the base color is red instead of fawn.

These dogs can appear quite dark depending on the shade of their base coat. In fact, some Belgian Malinois owners may not even know their dogs come in Sable since they are so dark.

Like all other standard Belgian Malinois colors, red sable dogs should have a black nose and very dark eyes. Their black mask may not be as easy to spot as the mask on pure red dogs.

Mahogany Belgian Malinois colors

Photo by: @south_canine

Mahogany is a reddish-brown shade resembling the tree of the same name. They can come in a variety of shades of mahogany, from a light auburn to a very deep, almost black color.

The exact hue of the Mahogany Belgian Malinois depends on the distribution of the eumelanin and pheomelanin pigments.

A black mask may not look very noticeable on these dogs as they tend to be very dark. They also have a black nose and dark brown eyes.

Non-standard Belgian Malinois colors

While the AKC recognizes some other coat colors, they are not considered within the breed standard. This means that while you can register these puppies with the Kennel Club, they cannot enter dog shows.

These are these colors:

Black Belgian Malinois colors

Photo by: @epic_malinois

Pure black Belgian Malinois are very rare. In fact, black is rare in many dog ​​breeds such as Shih Tzus, German Shepherds, or Shiba Inus. Most have at least one patch of a different color (usually white or tan). These dogs have high levels of eumelanin, the pigment responsible for black and tan colors.

Because these dogs have a dominant gene for their black color, their noses, eye rims, paw pads, and lips should correspond. Your eyes should be dark brown or even black.

While not a standard color, black Belgian Malinois are highly desirable, and their demand is increasing. When you look at her gorgeous appearance, it’s easy to see why.

Bridle Belgian Malinois colors

Photo by: @diversity_of_dogs

Brindle is one of the most unique coat colors (or rather coat patterns) in most dog breeds, and Belgian Malinois are no different.

Brindle dogs are in fact dogs with tiger-like stripes. If you see a dog with black stripes on the street, no matter how wide or narrow – that dog is brindle!

Brindle can appear on any base color, but in the Belgian Malinois it is usually on fawn or red. The brindle can cover all or just part of their coat.

While the black mask is desirable for all Belgian Malinois, some brindle moles lack it due to the unique way the pigment is distributed around their body.

Cream Belgian Malinois colors

Cream is one of the most common colors in most dog breeds. However, this is not the case with Belgian Malinois, who rarely come in cream.

This color occurs when your dog’s coat doesn’t contain a lot of eumelanin. The pheomelanin takes over and colors it light yellow to beige.

Cream Belgian Malinois have a black mask that is quite pronounced due to the high contrast in color between the two shades. Also, despite the lack of dark pigment on most of their fur, these puppies still have dark eyes, noses, lips, paw pads, and eye rims.

Creme Sable Belgian Malinois Colors

Again, sables are simply black ends of hair. In the cream Belgian Malinois, these black tips are quite noticeable as the ground color is very light. Some dogs might even appear dusty!

Most cream Belgian Malinois do not have a conspicuous black mask as they remain somewhat tangy due to pigment distribution.

Gray Belgian Malinois colors

Gray – also known as blue by some breeders – is the result of a dilution gene playing around with the black base coat. This gene dilutes the black color, turning it into an anthracite color that can sometimes have a blue tint.

Because this dilution gene affects the entire body of the dog, the nose, eye rims, and paw pads should also appear dark gray or blue.

At the same time, this is the only case where blue eyes can be accepted within the breed, since this gene also affects eye pigmentation.

Gray Belgian Malinois cannot have a black mask as all black pigmentation dilutes and turns gray – but there is one exception.

Gray Sable Belgian Malinois colors

Gray sable Belgian Malinois are only gray Males where black color is allowed – and on the tips of the hair. This gives them a certain overlay look.

Because these puppies already have a very dark base color, it can be difficult to tell if your Belgian Malinois is sable or not. However, most groomers will point this out right away.

Just like gray Belgian Malinois, these dogs should always have gray noses, ears, paw pads and lips, and slightly lighter eyes than normal.

Belgian Malinois colors of liver

Photo by: @aurum_theliver_belgianmalinois

Similar to grey, liver color is also caused by a dilution gene. On this occasion, however, the thinning occurs in the B locus. It is caused by a recessive gene, meaning the Belgian Malinois puppy should inherit it from both parents in order for the liver color to express itself.

Liver Belgian Malinois appear all shades of red, yellow, or cream, depending on how much pheomelanin pigment is on their coat and how intense it is. These dogs do not normally develop gray hairs as graying is not possible with such a coat color.

Since this thinning affects the dog’s entire body, it means his nose pads and paw pads should also be liver. On the other hand, his eyes should be light brown or even amber.

Rare Belgian Malinois colors

As we mentioned earlier, just because these colors are considered standard doesn’t mean they are all common. In fact, some of them can be considered very rare.

For the Belgian Malinois, brindle is the rarest permitted coat color. There are probably two reasons for this.

First of all, brindle is caused by a recessive gene. This means just because the brindle gene is found in the dog’s genetics doesn’t mean that dog has to have a brindle coat. Instead, it must be inherited from both parents.

Second, brindle is not a color that’s natural in modern Belgian Malinois—unlike some other working dogs like the Dutch Shepherd. If you happen to come across a brindle Malin, he likely has some distant relatives who have been crossed with a German or Dutch Shepherd.

The most common Belgian Malinois colors

Most standard Belgian Malinois colors are fairly common in this breed. These include fawn, red, and mahogany—although some dog breeders would argue that fawn is the most common of all.

Aside from that, a black mask is a distinctive pattern in the breed. In fact, according to the AKC, this is the only acceptable type of marking. All Belgian Malinois colors except liver and gray should have a greater or lesser black mask.

This mask must cover the muzzles of mals, but most often it covers the nose, eyes, and ears. Yes, most Belgian Malinois have black ears.

Belgian Malinois colors not allowed

Although not all colors are considered breed standards, some colors are completely excluded from the breed and you cannot register them. In fact, intentionally breeding these Belgian Malinois colors is frowned upon.

This is because these coat colors are associated with an increased likelihood of developing certain health issues.

Unfortunately, many of these “banned” Belgian Malinois colors are very popular and sought after due to their rarity, which is why they can still be found with many unreliable breeders.

Here are some of them:

Merle Belgian Malinois colors

Merle is one of the coat patterns that is considered very beautiful. However, this is also one of the most dangerous Belgian Malinois colors in existence.

Merle is caused by a dilution gene that dilutes all of your dog’s colors, not just his coat. If a puppy inherits a merle gene from just one parent, they most likely have the specific pattern that gives them that unique look.

Merle appears as blobs of different shades of color on a white base. Most of these dogs are tricolor, but more shades are possible. They also come with blue eyes or even heterochromia.

If a dog inherits two merle genes, it is considered a “double merle”. These puppies appear white with light blue eyes.

Unfortunately, since the merle gene is very aggressive, it doesn’t just stop at the dog’s coat. Instead, it will dilute everything on the dog’s body.

Because of this, Merle dogs are prone to many health issues like deafness, blindness, or even some bone issues like elbow dysplasia.

White Belgian Malinois colors

Photo by: @lisammcfarlin

In some dog breeds, white can be a completely natural color. However, in Mals this is not the case, and white is always the product of a condition.

One of the reasons your Belgian Malinois may appear white can be due to the merle gene. If a dog is a double merle, their entire coat will be thinned. These puppies have bright blue eyes and almost all are deaf. Double Merles are known to have a shortened lifespan, which is why they are considered undesirable by most responsible breeders.

Another cause of white Belgian Malinois could be albinism. This condition results in a dog being born with no pigment at all. These mals usually have pink noses and bright eyes – often with a red tinge.

Albinism is also linked to many health problems such as blindness and heart problems. This is one of the main reasons why intentional breeding of Belgian albino-Malinois is so frowned upon.

Bicolor Belgian Malinois

Many people google two tone Belgian Malinois colors and think that these dogs are rare. The truth is almost all mals are two tone!

This is because the black mask is considered mandatory for most coat colors. This alone is enough to consider your Belgian Malinois as a bi-colored breed.

What you are probably looking for is a tri-colored Belgian Malinois. This is when a dog has a primary color, a black mask and ears, and a third color elsewhere on the body.

Tri-colored Belgian Malinois are not as rare as it might seem. Many Males have small white spots on their body – usually on their chest or stomach. The breed standard usually allows this as long as these markings are not overwhelming or too noticeable.

Does color really matter?

There are many rumors about coat color affecting a dog’s behavior. For example, chocolate dogs are considered unfriendly, while yellow ones are considered the best family pets.

To be honest, coat color and pattern don’t affect a dog’s behavior. A dog will be as good a pet as you train it to be. While certain traits can make a difference, it all depends on that individual dog and how well you’ve taken care of them.

On the other hand, coat color can affect a dog’s health to some extent. As previously mentioned, some Belgian Malinois colors are associated with an increased risk of many health issues such as vision and hearing loss.

If a dog has a dilution gene — and that includes liver dogs — that gene could make your pooch more susceptible to health issues.

While it’s debatable whether these health issues can affect a dog’s behavior, whether or not a Belgian Malinois makes a good pet is entirely up to the dog itself and not its color.

Do the colors of the Belgian Malinois change over time?

Malinois are not one of the dog breeds known for changing coat colors. A puppy will most likely retain its appearance throughout its life.

In other words, a fawn colored pup will not magically turn red, just as a black pup will not fade and turn to mahogany.

However, the exact coat color can change over time, especially during the transition between puppyhood and adulthood. Still, a dog doesn’t completely change color just because it exits puberty.

eye and nose colors

Before you go, we need to say a few words about the Belgian Malinois’ eye and nose colors.

According to the AKC (as well as most other major kennel clubs), Belgian Malinois should have medium-sized eyes that are slightly almond-shaped. They must not protrude in any way, shape or form.

The eye color of most Belgian Malinois should be dark brown or even black. The only exceptions are liver and gray Malinois, whose eyes can be lighter in color – sometimes even blue or amber. It’s all due to the dilution gene that makes Mals’ eyes lighter.

Also, most Belgian Malinois should have a dark, black nose. However, liver and gray dogs can develop thinning that makes their noses lighter. Some puppies even have discolored areas on their noses giving them a unique look, which can still mean your pup is developing a medical condition.

Which Belgian Malinois Color is Best for You?

Dog color matters as we all want good looking pets. But how can you know which one is best for you?

The answer is simple – just pick the dog that looks the best to you and has papers to show they are healthy! Everything else is superficial and unnecessary.

All Belgian Malinois can make great family pets as long as you can offer them a firm hand and patience. These dogs require extensive dog training, having been taught to bark at strangers or even show aggressive tendencies.

That doesn’t mean Mals are aggressive at all. On the contrary, many will continue to believe that they are lap dogs well into their lives! Still, you need to be careful when choosing these dogs as they are not good for inexperienced dog owners.

You should also consider the rarity of a particular Belgian Malinois color you might want to get. The rarer the colour, the higher the price. Sometimes that price may not be worth the dog’s value.

If you don’t mind giving a breeder a nice sum of money, there’s nothing stopping you from buying one of the more expensive Belgian Malinois colors. Keep in mind that all of these dogs require a lot of care and attention. If you give them that, they will give you many colors to make your life a better place.

personality

General Temperament

Belgian Malinois exude confidence and alertness. They are often reserved with strangers, but not shy or aggressive. Mals are always alert and ready, whether it’s playing a game with their owner or protecting them from threats. They have been known to be aggressive towards strange dogs, especially without proper socialization.

family life

Are Belgian Malinois good with kids? Belgian Malinois are loving and patient with the children of their own families. However, they should always be observed around children as these herding dogs will attempt to fight children who become unruly.

(Note: Every dog ​​has a unique personality and different life experiences that affect their nature. As a general rule, adults should always supervise playdates between children and their four-legged friends.)

Are Belgian Malinois Good With Other Pets? Males have strong prey drives and as such can potentially be dangerous to small pets, including cats. They are usually good with dogs they have been socialized with from an early age, although they can be dominant. Visits to dog parks are not intended for Belgian Malinois and they should be supervised even on a short leash with strange dogs.

Protective

Belgian Malinois are known to be very protective of their people.

Are Belgian Malinois good watchdogs? Belgian Malinois make excellent and fearsome watchdogs. They keep an eye on the perimeter of your property and sound an alarm if someone approaches. Their appearance can be intimidating, which also acts as a deterrent to potential intruders.

energy levels

Belgian Malinois are extremely energetic. They need to be active and busy throughout the day, or they tend to get bored and turn to destructive behaviors like chewing and barking.

Specific Concerns

When using solvent based paints use a pure bristle brush which will give you a perfect finish.

Shirley Routh AAPPLY an emulsifying degreaser solution to the oil stain and agitate with a stiff bristle brush. Leave on for a short time, then rinse off with clear water.

Just give it a wash with warm, soapy water and a stiff-bristled brush every few months and you’ll be fine.

* When cleaning vinyl siding, use a soft cloth or an ordinary long-handled, soft-bristled brush. For textured surfaces, use only a soft-bristled brush to keep the grooves in the texture stain-free.

Equipment Note: If the dog is sensitive to brushing, I like to start with a soft bristle brush designed for short haired dogs.

The white salts must evaporate and when the stone has dried brush off the salts with a stiff bristle brush. I would not recommend sealing the pavement/blockwork as this can be disappointing and you will need to have the seal serviced every few years as it can look stained as areas with heavier traffic wear off.

Both are water resistant and will outlast the life of a bristle brush.

A stiff bristle brush is used for leaves, a small brush with shorter soft bristles for the ceiling, and longer flexible bristles for the floor.

Nicky Clarke Frizz Control Hot Air Styler, PS24.14, Argos (www.argos.co.uk) With this styler, which includes a large thermal brush, small bristle brush, straightening iron and nozzle, you can create a multitude of different styles with a minimum Styles create frizz.

A bristle brush is the absolute best tool for straightening hair, and a brush with natural bristles (or synthetic bristles that mimic them) is key to healthy, shiny hair.