You’re considering adding a Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix to your family.
Congratulations! This guide is meant to provide you with all the information you need to make the best decision for your new pet.
We’ll cover everything from personality and exercise needs to grooming and vet care. Plus, we’ll take a look at some of the pros and cons of owning a German Shepherd Malinois mix, also known as Malinois X and Shepinois.
By the end, you should have a good idea of whether or not this mixed breed is right for you.
Overview of The Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix
The Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix is a medium to large sized dog that is known for being intelligent, good-natured, level-headed and energetic. They are a mix of the Belgian Malinois and the German Shepherd, which is where they get their name. This mix is not as common as some of the other German Shepherd mixes, but they are gaining in popularity as more and more people learn about them.
One of the best things about the Shepinois is that they are so versatile. They can be used as a working dog, a guard dog or a companion dog. Their intelligence and good-natured temperament make them an excellent choice for any family.
Here are some of the things that you should know about this hybrid breed:
| Height: | 20-26 inches |
| Weight: | 45-85 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 10-14 years |
| Coat Colors: | Black, brown, gray, silver, blue, tan, sable, red, fawn, and cream |
| Coat Type: | Short, thick, double coat |
| Temperament: | Intelligent, loyal, protective, affectionate, friendly, easy to train |
| Breed Size: | Medium to large |
| Breed Purpose: | Working, sporting, guard dogs and family companion |
| Shedding: | Low to medium |
| Hypoallergenic: | No |
| Energy: | High |
| Exercise Needs: | High – need regular exercise and mental stimulation |
| Price: | $800 – $2,500 |
| Grooming Needs: | Medium – brush 2-3 times per week and bathe when needed |
| Trainability: | Very trainable |
| Common Health Issues: | Hip Dysplasia, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Physiologic Leukopenia, Hypothyroidism |
| With Family: | Very loyal and loving |
| With Children: | Generally good with children if properly socialized |
The Origin of The German Malinois Breed Mix
The Malinois GSD mix is a crossbreed of the Belgian Malinois and the German Shepherd. Both breeds were originally bred for herding purposes, and they are both considered to be very intelligent and loyal dogs. As a result, the German Shepherd Malinois mix is known to be an excellent family pet.
Let’s quickly analyze the two breeds in this hybrid dog:
German Shepherd Dog Breed
The German Shepherd is a popular breed of dog that is known for its intelligence and strength. They are often used as working dogs in police and military roles, as well as being great family pets.
German Shepherds have a strong protective instinct and are very loyal to their owners. They are also highly trainable and can learn a variety of commands quickly. German Shepherds have a thick double coat that comes in various colors such as black, tan, sable, or white.
They require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and free from mats. German Shepherds need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy; they love going on long walks or playing fetch with their owners.
With proper training and socialization, the German Shepherd can be an excellent companion for many years to come.
Belgian Shepherd Malinois
The Belgian Shepherd Malinois is a breed of dog that originated in Belgium and is similar to the German shepherd. It is a medium-sized, short-haired breed that is known for its intelligence and loyalty.
The Malinois has a strong work ethic and is often used as a working dog in police and military operations. They are also popular as family pets due to their friendly nature and protective instincts.
The Malinois has an athletic build with a square head, almond-shaped eyes, and pointed ears. Its coat can range from fawn to mahogany in color with black masking on the face. This breed requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy.
With proper training, the Belgian Shepherd Malinois can be an excellent companion for active families or individuals looking for an intelligent, loyal pet.
Appearance and Physical Characteristics of The German Shepherd Belgian Malinois Mix
The Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix is a medium to large dog that typically stands between 22 and 26 inches tall and weighs 50 to 85 pounds. His coat can be black, tan, red or sable, and is generally short and thick.
His muzzle is powerful and his ears are triangular and erect. He has a long tail that he wags enthusiastically and his dark eyes are always alert and attentive.
The Shepinois is a highly active dog who needs lots of exercise and plenty of interaction with his family. He is very protective of those he loves and is always courageous in defending them. He is also very smart and easy to train.
Intelligence of The German Malinois
This Hybrid breed of dog is known for their intelligence, loyalty and working ability. They are highly trainable and excel in many areas such as in herding, agility, police and military work, and as service dogs. They are also an excellent choice as family companions due to their loving nature.
The German Malinois is a smart breed that can easily learn commands and complex tasks, making them an ideal choice for those looking for an intelligent canine companion.
Temperament and Personality of The Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd Mix
The German Shepherd Malinois mix is a highly trainable and intelligent dog. They are loyal and protective of their family and make great guard dogs. They are also strong and rugged, making them great for outdoor activities.
The following are some points that describe the temperament and character of the shepinois:
- Loyal: Shepinois are known for their strong loyalty to their families and their willingness to protect them.
- Playful: They are very playful and enjoy activities such as fetch and tug-of-war.
- Friendly: They are known to be very friendly with other animals, children, and adults alike.
- Intelligent: They are very intelligent and can learn commands quickly.
- Brave: They are known for their courage and bravery, and are often used as police, guard and protection dogs.
- Affectionate: They are known to be very affectionate with their owners and families, and often form strong bonds with them.
- Easily Trainable: With the right training, the Malinois X can be easily trained to obey commands and perform tasks.
- Protective: Shepinois are known for their protectiveness when it comes to their families, and are willing to put their lives on the line to protect them. They are always alert and observant, making them good watchdogs.
- Energetic: They can be very energetic and require a lot of exercise
Common Health Problems and Grooming Needs for The German and Belgian Shepherd Malinois Mix
Unfortunately, like all breeds, the Belgian Malinois GSD mix is prone to certain health problems. However, responsible breeders will have screened their breeding stock for these conditions.
Some of the more common health problems to be aware of are hip and elbow dysplasia, eye disease, and diabetes. Hip and elbow dysplasia are common in large breeds and occur when the joints do not form properly. This can cause pain and lameness. Eye disease includes conditions like cataracts and glaucoma, which can lead to blindness. Diabetes is also a concern, as it can cause weight gain, increased thirst and urination, and fatigue.
If you are thinking of getting a Shepinois, be sure to do your research and find a responsible breeder who has screened their dogs for these conditions.
As for grooming, the German Shepherd Malinois mix has a coarse fur that sheds heavily. You’ll need to brush your dog’s fur weekly and bathe them regularly to keep their coat healthy and free of tangles. You may also need to trim their nails and groom their teeth on a regular basis.
Exercising Requirements for The Belgian Malinois Shepherd and German Shepherd Mix
The Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix is a high energy dog that needs 45 minutes to 2 hours of exercise every day. This mix breed enjoys playing fetch, going for a swim, or running alongside you while you bike. If you are looking for a couch potato dog, this is not the breed for you. The German Shepherd Malinois mix needs an owner that can provide them with the physical exercise they require every day.
Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix Food Requirements
The Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix is a high-energy dog that will need a lot of exercise, so it’s important to make sure they’re getting the right nutrition to support their activity level.
Their diet should be made up of high-quality proteins and fats, with moderate amounts of carbohydrates. You’ll also want to make sure they’re getting all the essential vitamins and minerals they need for good health.
As always, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian to find the right food for your dog, based on their individual needs.
However, if you are looking for the best human grade and vet approved dog food, check out this page (regularly updated!).
Training The Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix
This is a highly intelligent breed that benefits from regular training. They are quick learners and very eager to please, making them easy to train. However, they can also be quick to become bored, so it is important to keep their training sessions interesting.
It is also important to socialize your Malinois German Shepherd mix well to avoid aggression issues. They are naturally protective and territorial, and without proper socialization, they may become aggressive towards strangers.
These are some types of training that could help you transform your dog’s behavior and education:
- Socialization: Teach your Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix to interact with other people, animals, and objects in a positive way.
- Obedience Training: Teach your dog basic commands such as sit, stay, come, down, etc.
- Leash Training: Teach your dog to walk on a leash without pulling or lunging.
- Crate Training: Teach your dog to accept being in a crate for short periods of time.
- Housebreaking: Teach your dog the appropriate place to do their business.
- Exercise & Mental Stimulation: Provide plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation for your Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
- Positive Reinforcement Training Methods: Use positive reinforcement training methods such as praising and rewarding your dog when they obey commands and engage in normal behaviors.
Are you looking for a way to train your Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix from the comfort of your own home? If so, an online course for dog owners might be the perfect solution. With online courses, you can gain knowledge and skills you need to train your dog without having to leave the house.
You can learn how to properly socialize, housebreak, and obedience train your dog, as well as how to provide mental stimulation and nutrition. With the right online course, you can become a confident and successful dog owner.
Visit this page to see some of the best online courses for dog owners.
Belgian Malinois X Lifespan
The average lifespan of a Belgian Malinois X is around 10-14 years, depending on their health and lifestyle. These dogs tend to be quite healthy overall, but they can be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, and skin allergies. To ensure your Belgian Malinois X lives a long and healthy life, it’s important to provide them with regular vet checkups, proper nutrition, daily exercise, mental stimulation, and lots of love!
Pros and Cons of The Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix
Okay, now let’s get into the nitty gritty of whether or not the Shepinois is right for you.
Like all dogs, there are going to be pros and cons to this particular breed.
So let’s start with the pros, shall we?
Pros
- Highly intelligent and easy to train.
- Highly active, making them the perfect companion for outdoor activities.
- Loyal and protective of their family, making them great watchdogs.
- Generally healthy breed.
- Adaptable and able to live in a variety of environments.
- Low odor coat.
- Eager to please their owners.
- Good-natured and friendly with people, making them great for families.
- Physically strong and athletic, making them a great jogging or hiking companion.
Cons
- Highly energetic and require plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation.
- Strong prey drive, so if you have cats or other small animals, this breed may not be the best fit.
- May be prone to aggression if not properly socialized.
- Requires frequent brushing and grooming due to their double coat.
- Can be wary of strangers and may bark excessively.
- May not be suitable for novice dog owners.
- Can be expensive to acquire and maintain.
Is a German Shepherd and Belgian Malinois Mix Right for You?
By now, you should have a pretty good idea of what to expect if you decide to adopt or purchase a Shepinois. But is this hybrid the right dog for you?
Here are a few things to consider:
- Do you have experience with dogs? German Shepherds and Malinois are both working breeds that require a lot of exercise, so if you’re a first-time dog owner, this may not be the best breed for you.
- Do you have kids? If you have young children at home, a Shepinois may not be the best fit. Both German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois can be aggressive, and while German Shepherds are typically good with kids, Malinois are not.
- Do you have another pet? A Shepinois may not do well in a home with other animals, as they can be territorial. If you do have another pet, it’s important to introduce them gradually and make sure they get along before bringing them home.
If you’re looking for an intelligent, active breed that will keep you on your toes, then a Malinois German Shepherd mix might be the right dog for you. Just be sure to do your research and make sure this is the right breed for your lifestyle before bringing one home.
Rescuing a Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix
Rescuing a Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix can provide an opportunity to enhance your life with a loyal and intelligent companion. This breed is known for their strong work ethic, protective nature, and intense loyalty.
While they can be a challenge to train, the rewards of owning one of these intelligent and devoted dogs are worth the effort.
If you are considering rescuing one of these unique pups, make sure to do your research and ensure that you are providing the best possible environment for them.
Below I listed a few tips that may be helpful in your decision-making process.
- Research the breed and be prepared for the challenge of owning a working breed.
- Visit the shelter or rescue organization to meet the dog and learn more about its background and personality.
- Ask the shelter or rescue about the dog’s behavior and if it has any health issues.
- Make sure you have the time and energy to give your Malinois X the exercise and stimulation it needs.
- Talk to a trainer or behaviorist to learn more about the breed and understand what type of training your Malinois X may need.
- Consider adopting an older Malinois X as they can be more settled and easier to train.
- Make sure you have the financial resources to provide proper nutrition, vet care, and other necessities.
- Make sure you have a secure, fenced-in area for your Malinois X to play and exercise.
- Consider having a home visit or family interview with the shelter or rescue organization to ensure the dog is a good fit for your home.
Finding a Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix Puppy
Finding a Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix puppy can be a great way to bring a loyal and intelligent companion into your home. The combination of the two breeds results in a pup that has the energetic and loving personality of a Belgian Malinois, as well as the intelligence and protective nature of a German Shepherd.
When looking for your new pup, it is important to do your research and choose an ethical breeder who will provide you with healthy and happy puppies.
Below I listed a few tips that may be helpful in your decision-making process.
- Research the breeder and make sure they are reputable and ethical.
- Ask for information about the parents’ health, temperament, and lineage.
- Request a vet check on the puppies before committing to a purchase.
- Make sure the puppies are well-socialized and provided with adequate food, water, and exercise.
- Visit the puppies in person to ensure they are healthy and happy.
- Ask the breeder questions about the breed, health concerns, and training methods.
- Ask for a contract outlining the terms of the sale, including health guarantees and return policies.
- Be prepared to pay a higher price for a Shepinois puppy
Frequently Asked Questions About The Malinois X
Conclusion
The Malinois German Shepherd mix is a loyal and protective working dog that needs plenty of exercise and training. They are not for everyone and require a lot of time, commitment and patience from their owners.
This breed is best suited for an experienced dog owner who understands their need for consistent training and socialization. With the right care and training, the Malinois German Shepherd mix can make a wonderful family companion and will provide years of love and loyalty.
If you are looking for ways to train your Malinois X, then it is worth checking out some of the best online dog training courses available. These courses provide comprehensive training methods that can help you teach your pup basic obedience and commands, as well as more advanced tricks and behaviors. By taking one of these courses, you can ensure that your Malinois X will be a well-behaved and happy pup.
Thank you for reading our article about the Malinois German Shepherd mix! If you found it helpful, please share it with your friends and family to help spread the word about this amazing breed.
