Belgian malinois and german shepherd mix puppy

One of the designer breeds sought worldwide is the German Shepherd-Belgian Malinois mix; an elegant dog full of energy with surprising intelligence.

It is the first breed to have become a canine movie star, known as Strongheart on the big screen.

The German Shepherd Belgian mix was also one of the breeds that served during the First World War, performing as assistants to the Red Cross and as messengers between different troops.

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What is a German Shepherd Belgian Malinois Mix?

The German Shepherd Belgian Mix is a combination that resulted from sheepdogs originating in Germany and Belgium. In fact, these dogs are known more as Belgian Shepherds than German Shepherds.

Later we will explore their true origin and how they have developed since.

Belgian malinois and german shepherd mix puppy
Belgian malinois and german shepherd mix puppy

How Much Does a GSD Belgian Malinois Mix Cost?

A GSD Belgian Malinois Mix Puppy can cost between $500 and $2000.

Although, this can depend on several factors. The main reason why this mix’s price varies is that there are four different subtypes of German Shepherd Belgian dogs:

  • Belgian Shepherd Malinois
  • Belgian Shepherd Laekenois
  • Belgian Shepherd Groenendael
  • Belgian Shepherd Tervuren
Each of them has several physical features and attitude variations, but all are worthy dogs with ancestors of the original German and Belgian shepherds.

Belgian malinois and german shepherd mix puppy
Belgian malinois and german shepherd mix puppy

History of the Belgian Shepherd

In the nineteenth century, many dogs were used to shepherd sheep and other flocks of animals. With the German Shepherd’s arrival in Belgium, crossbreeds began to develop between German and their Belgian Shepherd counterparts.

During that time, all mixed breeds produced between the two distinct breeds were used as sheepdogs or shepherds. They were recognized by their performance as work dogs and by their fidelity and loyalty towards their owners.

It was not until 1910 when breeders struck a perfect combination among the shepherd dogs, and the predominant Belgian Shepherd breed, as we know it today, originated. Later these dogs were crossed with other species, and further different subtypes of Belgian Shepherds were born.

Belgian Shepherd Malinois

The Belgian Malinois Shepherd is the most common type of Belgian Shepherd in the world. The Belgian Shepherd was the first to result from the different crosses between sheepdogs and has been the preferred breed of those looking to own GSDs for many years.

The Belgian Shepherd is characterized as being both the easiest dog to train, and to care for.

Thanks to his capabilities and intelligence levels, the Belgian Shepherd has proved to be a key asset in many wars and other working circumstances.

Most of the first Belgian Shepherd’s genetic makeup has been passed down to the different types of Belgian Shepherds today.

The Appearance of the Mix

The appearance of the Belgian-German Shepherd varies between the four subtypes.

The main difference is the coat, which will vary in length, color, and texture across the four subtypes. The Belgian Shepherd is usually as heavy as a German Shepherd and maintains a relatively similar height.

The average weight of any Belgian Shepherd is between 65-85 kg or 44-66 lbs. Their average height is 20-26 inches.

The skull of Belgian German Shepherds is flat in proportion to the rest of their body. They have deep eyes, almond-shaped noses, and pointed ears.

However, there are critical differences in the coats of the four types of Belgian shepherds, which we’ve outlined below:

  • The Belgian Shepherd Malinois has short hair that is light brown
  • The Belgian Shepherd Laekenois is identified by their hard and medium brown hair
  • The Belgian Shepherd Groenendael has long hair that is generally black
  • The Belgian Tervuren Shepherd has hair that is long and dense and either brown or black

Belgian malinois and german shepherd mix puppy
Belgian malinois and german shepherd mix puppy

Temperament

The temperament of the Belgian German Shepherd is similar to the standard behavior of any German Shepherd dog.

They are always full of energy and tend to be very loyal, faithful, friendly, affectionate, and still maintain a watchful attitude.

This balanced mix is ideal for companionship, whether you seek a working dog or a loving dog for your home.

Regardless, all Shepherd dogs need a firm leader who knows what they are doing and can always guide him in control in any situation that arises and provide regular training.

German Shepherd dogs and their related mixes thrive with structured training.

Additionally, they are very protective and devoted to their owners.

Health Issues

Similar to the German Shepherd, the Belgian German Shepherd tends to inherit the same health problems.

They are prone to swelling, degenerative myelopathy, may be sensitive to anesthesia, and may suffer from some allergies.

Other common health problems that may face Belgian German Shepherds are:

  • Epilepsy
  • Bloating
  • Hip dysplasia, which is a malformation or predisposition to dislocation of the hip joints
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Physiological leukopenia, which causes a chronically low white blood cell count
  • Progressive atrophy of the retina, which is a deterioration of the retina and can cause night blindness

Life Expectancy

Belgian Malinois German Shepherds can live up to 15 years, as long as their health is optimally maintained.

Exercise Requirements and Training

Belgian Malinois German Shepherds are very active. After all, they are descended from sheepdogs.

They need at least one hour of exercise per day.

Routine walks will not be sufficient to meet their needs, which will cause them to become restless.

Additionally, they need physical activity but they require a combination of mental and physical stimulation.

They are brilliant dogs who will be happier with active owners and will respond positively to training.

Useful link: 6 Quick Ways To Tire Out Your German Shepherd

Belgian Malinois Shepherds tend to learn very quickly, making them very easy to train, although sometimes they can be anxious to do new things. In that case, they should be encouraged and generously rewarded for their effort and hard work.

Is a Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd cross a good dog?

The Malinois X hybrid canine, being the result of breeding a Belgian Malinois with a German Shepherd Dog, is a great family dog! This hardy, fun-loving, devoted and hard working dog will fit into your lifestyle as long as you are firmly in control.

How much does a Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix cost?

How much is Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix? The average price of this mix can vary. Belgian Malinois can cost between $1,000 and $2,000 depending on each individual breeder. German Shepherds are slightly cheaper from $500 to $1000.

How much is a German Shepherd Belgian Malinois puppy?

What Can You Expect to Pay for a Malinois Puppy? A Belgian Malinois puppy with papers, but no breeding rights or show quality: costs an average of $1,067.50. With papers, superior lineage, and breeding rights or show quality a Malinois puppy price can average from $3,400 to $9,000.

How big does a Malinois German Shepherd get?

Males stand 24-26 inches high at the withers and females 22-24 inches. But the majority of Malinois are lighter than most German Shepherds. The male Malinois weighs 60-80 pounds and the female weighs 40-60 pounds. In contrast, a male German Shepherd can weigh up to 90 pounds and a female up to 70 pounds.