Although most K-9 or search and rescue dogs seem to be German shepherds, often they're actually a breed known as the Belgian Malinois (pronounced MAL-in-wah), or Mal. Are these two doggos twinsies? With their pointed ears, intense gaze, gorgeous double coats, and intense stamina, it might appear so at first glance. Show But there are actually many unique characteristics for the individual breeds. So if you're making a 'yays and nays' list of Belgian Malinois vs. German shepherd, maybe we can help! Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd side by sideCaitlin-Marie Miner Ong / GlobalP / Getty Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd SimilaritiesThe American Kennel Club (AKC) has seven categories for dogs, based on the purpose they were originally bred to serve. Representing the AKC's herding group, both Belgian Malinois and German shepherds are prized for their working abilities. They're so smart, possessing a 'do your child's math homework' level of intelligence! Other similarities to add to the Belgian Malinois vs. German shepherds list:
Bonnie Bragdon, DVM, MS, is co-founder and president of the Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association. She says when considering a purebred dog for the family, the most important aspect is to understand the dog's breeding—certainly true for all breeds, but especially paramount for those with inherent working abilities like Belgian Malinois and German shepherds. "They could have come from a line of dogs bred for conformation (show quality), for skill (working or field trials), or for companionship (pet quality)," she says. So if the heritage of a Belgian Malinois or German shepherd involves breeding for show or work and you're an experienced pet parent fully focused on continued development, either canine might be an exceptional choice. However, if one of these alert and active pups has to find a way to fit into a busy family's schedule, Bragdon says it's imperative to have a careful consultation with a breeder and your veterinarian to ensure you can provide a happy, healthy lifestyle for this type of dog. "Dogs bred to work are often high energy and may become destructive or mentally unwell if not provided with adequate work to keep them occupied," she adds. While both breeds are European, they're actually not related in any way. Bred near the city of Malines in northwestern Belgium, Mals are one of four herding breeds from this country, each named after a particular area. German shepherds were also initially used as herding dogs, but later developed by a military officer to be the perfect working dog. One of the key differences on the Belgian Malinois vs. German shepherd list is temperament. Bragdon says generally, Mals aren't bred as pet companions, and often have a high prey drive and work ethic—characteristics that make them aptly suited to put their nose to the ground in search and rescue positions, bomb and narcotic detection, and as tracking K-9 officers. "They're happiest when physically and mentally engaged to assist in protection activities, which may be beyond the ability of the average dog owner to satisfy," Bragdon says. On the other hand, German shepherds—considered to be one of America's most popular dog breeds—were originally bred for herding, became a favorite for police work, and are now more frequently bred for companionship. "The average dog owner is more likely to be able to meet the physical and mental needs of this breed to ensure a happy, healthy dog," Bragdon says. Let's take a closer look at them now!  Caitlin-Marie Miner Ong / GlobalP / Getty It's easy to see why they're often hard to tell apart if you spot them as shadowy figures in the dark. Similar black muzzles, a color variance that ranges from fawn and tan to brown and mahogany, and an acute gaze that follows your every move! So you have to pay attention to the subtleties:
Usually fairly healthy, Bragdon says these active dogs have the potential to develop elbow or hip dysplasia. Mals, which usually live 14–16 years, are also prone to cataracts and epilepsy. Shepherds have a lifespan of 7–10 years, and might have issues such as bloat, degenerative disc disease, and pannus, an inherited eye condition. Belgian Malinois vs. German Shepherd: Which Is Better for You?When choosing a working dog like one of these breeds, trust your instinct to tap into his unique abilities so he has the best life. Bragdon helped us pull together a few more facts that might help. The Belgian Malinois might be your top canine companion if:
You might prefer a German shepherd pet if you're:
RELATED: 10 Energetic German Shepherd Mixes Your Active Family Will Adore Whats the difference between a Belgian Malinois and a Belgian Shepherd?Mals will often have more solid color fur, compared to the shepherd's bi-color or possibly tri-color coat. A Belgian Malinois is lean and muscled, with a more slender face, whereas a shepherd is a bit burly with thicker fur. Those big ears! All the better to hear you with!
Are all Belgian Shepherds Malinois?The Belgian Malinois is one of the varieties of the Belgian shepherd. All are named for Belgian villages: Groenendael, Laekenois, Mechelar (Malinois) and Tervuren.
What are the 4 types of Belgian Shepherd?The Belgian Shepherd dog is the only breed in the world that comes in 4 varieties: the short-coated red, fawn or grey 'Malinois', the long-haired fawn, red or grey 'Tervueren', the long-haired black 'Groenendael', and the rarer rough-coated reddish fawn 'Laekenois'.
What breeds make up a Belgian Malinois?In some countries, the Malinois is classified together with the Tervuren, Laekenois, and Belgian Shepherd (aka Groenendael) as a single breed collectively known as the Belgian Sheepdog. In America, the Malinois has been registered as a separate breed since 1959.
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Is a belgian shepherd the same as a belgian malinois
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