Belgian Malinois Malinois ~ Belgian Shepherd Malinois Mechelaar ~ Mechelese Herder

Family: Canidae

Description The Belgian Malinois is a solidly built animal with a deep chest and muscular hindquarters. The head is flat with a fairly long, tapering muzzle. The ears are triangular and erect, and the eyes are small, dark and almond-shaped. The tail is long and should reach or extend past the hock.
A Malinois has a short coat that is gray, fawn or mahogany. The face and ears are black, and the hairs on the rest of the body should have some amount of black tipping. Male Malinois measure 24 to 26 inches tall, and females measure 22 to 24 inches tall. Both sexes weigh between 55 and 65 pounds.

Care and Feeding Malinois need diets that are low in fiber and high in protein. The best foods for this breed would include poultry, ocean fish, and wheat.
The short coat of the Malinois requires minimal care. It should be brushed regularly with a firm brush, especially when shedding. Bathing should be avoided as much as possible, because it will remove the coat's natural waterproofing.
The Malinois has dewclaws on both the front and back legs. They should be removed from the back when the dog is a puppy, and may also be removed from the front if desired.
Annual checkups will help keep your Belgian Malinois healthy. Vaccinations are due as follows:

• 6-8 weeks: Distemper, Leptospirosis, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvo, and Corona virus (DHLPPC)
• 10-12 weeks: Second DHLPPC
• 14-16 weeks: Third DHLPPC and rabies
• Annually: DHLPPC and rabies booster
  

The Malinois sheds constantly, and does so heavily twice a year. Regular vacuuming of carpet and furniture is crucial. This breed is also prone to skin allergies, so it's important to remove the source of any breakouts if possible