A Belgian Malinois is known for their intelligence and prized for their hardworking nature and protective instinct. But, they’re also great family pets. Their high energy and playful personality means they tend to retain a puppy-like demeanor until they are about three years old.

They get along well with children as well as other dogs and pets in the household as long as they are socialized with them. Because of their protective instinct, socialization and training early and often are particularly important.

The other parent breed could introduce some potential traits that could affect temperament. So, you do want to ask the other breeder about them. You can also meet the mother dog in person to see what sort of temperament she is modeling for her pups.

But, it’s important to continue socialization and training on your own. Once you take a puppy home, it’s your responsibility to make sure they continue growing up into a well-rounded dog.

Belgian Malinois are moderately adaptable dogs. Their high energy tends to make them a better fit for homes with securely fenced yards where they can run.

They can adapt to apartment living as long as sufficient time is dedicated to giving them the exercise and training they need. As long as the other parent breed has similar adaptability traits, you should be able to expect the same in a Belgian Malinois Mix.

Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than purebred dogs? Sometimes. But, it’s not a guarantee. A mixed-breed dog can sometimes win the genetic lottery and inherit none of the potential health conditions common to either parent breed. At the same time, they could inherit potential conditions common to one parent or both parent breeds.

From the Belgian Malinois side, potential health concerns include hip dysplasia, thyroid disease, and progressive retinal atrophy. Reputable breeders will screen their stock to avoid passing issues on to puppies. So, don’t be afraid to ask about the health and genetic history of both parents.

Although the Belgian Malinois is highly intelligent and picks up on things easily, they are also high-energy dogs with an independent nature and a strong will. This means they are generally not a good fit for first-time dog owners. Puppy training classes are recommended, even for an experienced owner, as these classes often offer opportunities to socialize a puppy.

A Belgian Malinois Mix can inherit a coat similar to one parent breed or a coat that is a blend of both, so grooming requirements will be different depending on coat type. Should they inherit a Belgian Malinois coat, they will shed moderately year-round and heavier when seasons change. A weekly brushing and the occasional bath are usually sufficient for this coat. And, you will want to brush them more often during seasonal changes.

In addition to coat care, you will also need to care for your Belgian Malinois Mix’s nails, ears, and teeth. Cutting your dog’s nails monthly is usually enough to keep them from growing too long. But, you may need to cut them more often if nails grow quickly or aren’t wearing down as much on their own.

Weekly ear checks and carefully cleaning your dog’s ears as needed can help prevent ear infections. When checking ears, you are making sure they are clean, dry, and free of debris or pests. If you see redness, irritation, excess wax or moisture, or something else, it’s time to visit the vet.

It’s also important to practice good dental care for dogs. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal. But, many dog owners skip or overlook this, which is why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. By caring for your dog’s teeth and gums, you can help protect them from painful dental disease later in life.

The Belgian Malinois is a high-energy, athletic dog breed. They need daily walks, playtime, and extra activity every day to stay happy and healthy. They also need a job to do and are good candidates for dog sports like flyball, agility, and more.

If the other parent breed is also a high-energy dog breed, then you can expect a Belgian Malinois Mix to be a high-energy dog as well. If the other parent breed has a lower energy level, it’s possible for a Belgian Malinois Mix to inherit it. But, you will still need to be prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog.

A Belgian Malinois tends to be 22-26 inches tall and 40-70 pounds once fully-grown. The other parent breed could affect this, so you want to make sure you ask the breeder about it.

You also want to pay attention to which breed is the mother as this will also affect the size of the puppies, especially in a mixed-breed dog. Although it’s not a guarantee, you can also meet the mother dog in person to get an idea of what size to expect in a Belgian Malinois Mix.

Belgian Malinois tend to live for 11-13 years. The other parent breed may affect this slightly, but you can likely expect a similar life span in a Belgian Malinois Mix.