Belgian Malinois
A tireless, highly intelligent athlete, the Malinois is the working dog par excellence. It thrives with an active, experienced owner.
Belgian Malinois vs German Shepherd
Side by side
| Trait | Belgian Malinois | German Shepherd |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Sheepdogs and cattle dogs | Sheepdogs and cattle dogs |
| Size | Large | Large |
| Weight | 20–30 kg | 22–40 kg |
| Height at withers | 56–66 cm | 55–65 cm |
| Life expectancy | 12–14 years | 9–13 years |
| Energy | ||
| With children | ||
| With other dogs | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Heat tolerance | ||
| Apartment | Not recommended | Not recommended |
Key differences
- Heavier: German Shepherd (about 31 kg vs 25 kg on average)
- Longer life expectancy: Belgian Malinois (about 13 years vs 11 years on average)
- Sheds more: German Shepherd (5/5 vs 3/5)
Gaps counted as key differences: more than 20% in average weight, more than 10% in average height, at least 2 years in average life expectancy, or at least 2 points on a rating.
Which one is right for you?
A quick guide based on the ratings above. Every dog is an individual: spend time with the breed and talk to breeders, rescue organisations or a veterinarian before deciding.
- Apartment living
- Both are similarBased on apartment suitability and energy.
- Family with children
- German Shepherd is the better fitBased on behaviour with children.
- First-time owner
- Both are similarBased on trainability, energy and grooming needs.
- Hot climate
- Both are similarBased on heat tolerance.
- Active owner
- Belgian Malinois is the better fitBased on energy level.
Meet the two breeds
German Shepherd
Loyal, steady and remarkably versatile, the German Shepherd is both a protective family dog and an outstanding working dog.