Belgian Malinois (also known as mals, maligators, hair missiles, etc.) are a special breed of dog: They need constant training, jobs and work. We are not recommending Malinois ownership, especially to the casual pet owner, which is 99% of all pet owners. For the casual dog owner, we suggest you read the following article on Malinois ownership before continuing in this blog. You can read and learn, but do not go buy one.
This Belgian Malinois blog is intended to share our experiences and to help others in the 99% who already have Mals. Some of you may have gotten them as puppies, some are former LEO dogs (Law Enforcement Officer - (Police, Marines, etc.), or you got one from a rescue group or shelter.
Before we begin with our expereinces, we would like to share this short, general list of our observations why you should not get a Mal as a pet. It is not all-inclusive, or apply to all Mals, but like most stereotypes many of these are based in truths. You will find similar lists on respected Belgian Malinois sites.
- They are energizer bunnies. They do not get tired
- You have to commit to spend a lot of supervised time exercising and training them. 2-4 hours a day.
- They get bored easily, when bored they get destructive
- They must have jobs, see above bullet. They are working dogs, they need to be busy.
- They go through toys like a hurricane. Budget a considerable amount of money for toys that will be destroyed shortly. It is better than having your furniture or anything else destroyed.
- Consider investing in good strong leashes, a harness, and a muzzle (more on muzzles later, they are actually for the Mal's protection). We will recommend some as well.
- Be prepared for a very smart, easily motivated, and stubborn dog. Much like a Dachshund or German Shepherd, but on steroids.
- They love to eat. And a lot. You will need to budget for good, quality dog food and treats at a minimum. You will want to give them some vegetables and meat occasionally to help them stay healthy.
Now that that is out of the way, we will begin at the beginning.
Please comment below with your thoughts. Thanks.
Please comment below with your thoughts. Thanks.
Hi dear,
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