Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix is the most confusing combination as this kind of mix carries the features of both the parents, which are quite similar by looks.
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The two breeds have many similarities in terms of appearance and nature. However, there are some differences between these two famous work dogs.
Surprisingly, the Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd can often be bred intentionally or unintentionally to create a mixed dog.
This cross is commonly known as the Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix. Relatively common crossbreed, you can find them worldwide.
Let’s have a closer look at the Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix.
With the introduction over, let’s take a closer look at the Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix.
What do you call the Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix?
The easiest way to refer to this cross is the Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix.
However, these dogs are also known as Malinois X. Other names include German Malinois and Shepinois.
Let’s take a closer look at the Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd breeds.
Belgian Malinois
The Belgian Malinois originated in the northwestern Belgian city of Malinois. The species is thought to have evolved in the late 1800s along with Tervuren, Groenendael, and Lyconois.
They were developed by trainers and working competitors, which explains why the Belgian Malinois do great service and work dogs in our community.
Although in modern times they are often seen as watchdogs, military and police dogs, the Belgian Malinois were first used by Belgian shepherds and Belgian herdsmen.
The American Kennel Club describes the Belgian Malinois as a “peerless herdsman” in Belgium.
Also read: How to differentiate German shepherd and Belgian Melinois
The first Belgian Malinois arrived in the United States in 1911, but the breed was not recognized by the American Kennel Club until 1959.
They are currently the 43rd most popular breed in the USA to highlight their growth in popularity over the past few decades.
These days, they are considered world-class working dogs whether working in the military, police, drug identification, search and rescue or security.
German Shepherd
You may not have encountered the Belgian Malinois before this article, you have definitely heard of the German Shepherd.
We can trace the origin of the German Shepherd to 1890. Former German military capitalist Max von Stefanitz set out on an effort to create his perfect working dog.
He encountered a dog named Hector Lynxrain at a dog show in 1899, leaving such an impression that he immediately bought the dog. He changed Hector to Horand van Grafrath, who became a founding member of the dog breed.
also read: Red Sable German shepherd Puppy Vs Belgian Malinois: A Quick Look
Founded as a founding member of the Verine for Deutsche Shepherd (Society for the German Shepherd Dog) Horand.
Although their name was changed to the Alsatian Wolf Dog in the UK during World War I, Deutsche Shepherhund translated it as German Shepherd dog.
German Shepherds are widely used in the military, police, drug recognition and due to their high IQ, impressive loyalty and learning ability.
The American Kennel Club named the German Shepherd the second most popular dog in the USA, the seventh most popular in the UK.
Difference between German shepherd and Malinois
| Aspect | German Shepherd | Belgian Malinois |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Germany | Belgium |
| Size | Larger; males: 65-90 lbs, females: 50-70 lbs | Smaller; males: 55-75 lbs, females: 40-60 lbs |
| Coat | Various colors and patterns | Fawn to mahogany with black mask |
| Appearance | Strong, muscular build | Agile, elegant physique |
| Temperament | Loyal, intelligent, versatile | Energetic, intelligent, driven |
| Energy Level | Moderate to high | High |
| Trainability | Highly trainable | Highly trainable |
| Work Roles | Police, military, service dogs | Police, military, work dogs |
| Activity Needs | Active but adaptable | Very active and demanding |
| Suitable For | Families, various roles | Active individuals, handlers |
| Common Uses | Service, protection, herding | Police, protection, herding |
Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix size and Specifications
Belgian Malinois can grow up to 22 to 26 inches in height. They usually weigh 40 to 80 pounds.
Male Malinois less than 23 inches or more than 27 inches and female Malinois less than 21 inches or more than 25 inches do not meet the AKC’s racial criteria.
German Shepherds range in size from 22 to 26 inches in height, but typically weigh between 49 and 88 pounds.
So we can assume that the Belgian Malinois German Shepherd breed is 22 to 26 inches long and weighs between 40 and 90 pounds.
Characteristics of the Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix
Like all mixed breeds, the Belgian Malinois German Shepherd breed does not guarantee what traits each parent will inherit.
Their coat color reflects the two species, combining shades of black, brown, fon, blue and white.
The brown, almond-shaped eyes with ears are high and erect, reflecting the alert appearance of both parents.
- A Malinois X should have a relatively long muzzle with a black nose.
- The Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix features a double coat.
Belgian Malinois German Shepherd personality
We can not say for sure what features the Belgian Malinois German Shepherd breed has, however, it is a very safe bet that this cross will give the hard working dog.
The German Malinois are athletic, loyal and protective by nature, all with the same personality traits as the Belgian Malinois and German Shepherds.
The Belgian Malinois have a natural desire to protect their family members, which makes this hybrid a good family pet.
However, the Belgian Malinois German Shepherd breed needs socialization and training from an early age.
This will give you a better chance of having a happy, level-headed and balanced dog.
Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix Hypoallergenic?
The Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix is not hypoallergenic.
If you are looking for a dog breed that is unlikely to trigger an allergy, this is not the right mix for you.
Although not something like a 100 percent hypoallergenic dog, the American Kennel Club claims that some breeds are inferior.
Malinois-X Shedding
Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mixes are moderate shaders, so you should be prepared for dog hair.
Malinois X owners are required to brush their dogs at least twice a week. This will help maintain the health and quality of their coat.
Most members of the cross breed blow their coats twice a year during changing seasons.
You need to take care of their ears, eyes and nails and their teeth.
Malinois-X Mix Exercise Requirements
German Malinois are high-energy dogs, so owners should ensure that their pet gets adequate exercise to avoid destructive or unwanted behavior due to depression.
Dog walking service provider Vogue Belgian Malinois recommends up to 120 minutes per day for German Shepherd Mix. That equates to 10 miles per week.
The lifespan of Malinois-X
The average lifespan of a Belgian Malinois is 12 to 14 years. German Shepherds, on the other hand, can live between nine and 13 years.
Therefore, it is safe to say that the lifespan of the Belgian Malinois German Shepherd breed is nine to 12 years.
How much is the cost of the Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix?
The average price of this mixture may vary. Belgian Malinois can cost between $ 1,000 and $ 2,000 per individual breeder. German Shepherds are a little less than $ 500 to $ 1000.
Other potential costs include dog food, pet insurance, clothing, wet trips and more. You can find the best pet insurance options in USA and UK.
Adoption of Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix
You have the best bet on finding out that the Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix is making a trip to your local rescue shelter.
You can inquire about the availability of these crosses.
Alternatively, you can contact the Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd dedicated rescue agencies for further assistance.
