Characteristics of a German Malinois

Hybrid dogs attempt to combine two pure-bred dogs to produce a dog with desirable traits from both breeds. A mix between the German Shepherd and Belgian Malinois is not much of a stretch; the breeds share common ancestry, traits and appearance.

  1. German Malinois

    • The mix of a German Shepherd and Belgian Malinois produces a dog that's similar in appearance to both dogs since they are already so similar. The German Malinois tends to be slightly smaller and weigh less than the German Shepherd. The dog's top line is also more square than a German Shepherd's because it doesn't have as much slope there. The dogs can reach up to 75 lbs., depending on the parent's size.

    Coat

    • The coat of both dogs can vary from shorter hair to a long coat. The Belgian Malinois is usually varying shades of tan; the German Shepherd is tan with a black face and back but can also be found all black, fawn, blue or white. The mix of coats can produce a myriad of combinations that resembles both breeds. Although both parent breeds have a thick double coat, they only shed a few times a year and are considered medium-shed dogs. The German Malinois requires weekly brushing but not washing. The coat is waterproof, so washing it too much can strip the coat's protective oils.

    Temperament

    • The German Malinois' temperament varies based on the parents of the mixed dog, but both breeds have certain characteristics in common that are likely to manifest in the mixed breed. Both dogs are highly intelligent herding dogs and have a strong instinct to work and be useful. A bored German Malinois can become aggressive or destructive. The dogs are protective of their family, so they need to be socialized properly so they're not overtly aggressive to strangers and other dogs.

    Health

    • The German Shepherd and Belgian Malinois are prone to hip and elbow displasia, so the German Malinois should be checked frequently for joint problems. Both dogs can suffer from allergies that affect the skin. Because diet can greatly influence a dog's allergies, give a German Malinois a diet with a low wheat content. This is a common allergen and a food that doesn't include food coloring.