Malinois are also known as a Belgian Shepherd, they are in fact only a part of the Belgian Shepherd family.
Malinois and German shepherds were originally bred for herding and have similar visual characteristics.
As a rule, Malinois tend to weigh less than German shepherds, built for running and agility. German shepherds are prone to more health conditions, while Belgian malinois tend to be far more resilient dogs.
Belgian Malinois were first recognized in the late 19th century as one of four types of Belgian shepherd breeds (the others being the Belgian Tervuren, the Belgian Groenendael and the Belgian Laekenois).
Along with being smaller than German shepherds, Most Malinois have a different overall body shape compared to the GSDs.
German Shepherds have long bodies that slope down toward their tails and thicker bone structures.
Belgian Malinois are much leaner in appearance,
Along with being smaller than German shepherds, Most Malinois have a different overall body shape compared to the GSDs.
German Shepherds have long bodies that slope down toward their tails and thicker bone structures, whereas Malinois are much leaner in appearance with pointed ears and a longer nose.
Some Malinois facts
Weight
The two breeds are around the same height, but Malinois usually weigh less than GSDs. They’re typically around 40 to 80 pounds, while German shepherds can weigh up to 90 pounds, with males weighing more for both breeds.
The double coat
Malinois shed lightly all year and have two heavy shedding periods winter and spring.
One of the reasons that Malinois shed so much is due to their double-layered coat. Shedding twice allows the Malinois to grow different coats based on the seasons – a light summer coat and a thick winter undercoat.
This natural shedding allows the dog to adapt to their various environments.
The Belgian Malinois love to be around the humans.
This breed really needs early socialization with other people and animals, for a well-rounded Malinois.