Buyer question
How long does a Belgian Malinois live?
Our Animal Library gives the Belgian Malinois a lifespan of 14–16 years.
Source: the Belgian Malinois page in the Everybarn Animal Library. Belgian Malinois in the Animal Library
The detail
A Belgian herding dog now used worldwide by police and military units, the Malinois is bred for extreme drive, speed and focus. In the right hands it is a superb working partner; in a typical pet home it is usually more dog than anyone expected.
- Best fit
- Working and sport handlers
- Temperament
- Intense, driven, alert
What to weigh
A Malinois needs hours of structured work every day and an experienced handler. Under-stimulated, it can become destructive, mouthy or reactive. Many end up in rescue after owners buy on looks alone.