Choosing between a male or female Belgian Malinois can be tough, especially for first-time owners. Both sexes share the Malinois’s trademark intelligence and athletic build, but there are some important differences in size, energy levels, and care needs. As you read on, consider your lifestyle and preferences. Males are typically larger and even more energetic, while females are slightly smaller, calmer, and often quicker to train.
Below we break down their appearance, temperament, and care requirements-including feeding, spaying/neutering, and grooming (with helpful tools). We hope that it’ll help you pick the best fit for your home.
Belgian Malinois Male Vs Female: Size & Appearance
Belgian Malinois are medium-to-large, square-built herding dogs. Males are generally taller and heavier than females: about 24–26 inches tall and 60–80 lbs for males, versus 22–24 inches and 40–60 lbs for females.
Their coat is short, straight, and weather-resistant, usually fawn to mahogany with a black mask and ears. The breed standard notes that the body should give an impression of power without bulk. It means Malinois look muscular and strong but not bulky. Males tend to look more robust, while females are a bit more refined and lean.
Despite size differences, both sexes share an elegant yet athletic build (strong legs, high withers, firm back) that allows them to excel in agility and endurance work.
- Male Malinois: aproximately 24–26″, 60–80 lbs (large, muscular, powerful).
- Female Malinois: approximately 22–24″, 40–60 lbs (smaller, medium-sized).
- Build: Lean, square profile; no excess flesh. Males usually look more “robust,” females a bit more “graceful”.
Belgian Malinois Male Vs Female: Temperament & Energy
Belgian Malinois are alert, confident, and extremely high-energy dogs. Both sexes need vigorous exercise and mental challenges, but there are subtle differences:
Energy Level
Males tend to be more energetic and rambunctious. They often need 1–2 hours of vigorous activity or more per day to burn off energy. (Think jogging, fetch, agility, or herding.) Females are active but may be a bit calmer on average – typically requiring at least one hour of intense play or exercise daily. In any case, daily walks alone aren’t enough: Malinois thrive on running, play, and jobs.
Behavior
Both sexes form strong bonds with their family and are very loyal. Males are often bold and sometimes more stubborn or protective, especially around other dogs or strangers, if not socialized. Females tend to mature faster, so they can be a little more focused and easier to handle. They may be reserved or shy with strangers (reacting with caution or a bark rather than immediate aggression). This wariness can make females excellent watchdogs.
Training & Socialization
Belgian Malinois are highly trainable, but their strong drive means they need consistent, patient training and socialization from puppyhood. Socialization is crucial for both genders. This means that you need to introduce them to new people, places, and other dogs early. It helps prevent fear or aggression later. Allow your dog to sniff other animals and investigate the environment properly.
Males
Intelligent and eager to please, males can learn quickly but may be more easily distracted or stubborn if bored. They are more prone to dog-to-dog aggression without proper socialization. Early training that establishes boundaries and plenty of exposure to different dogs is key. (Some owners find neutering at a year old can help reduce hormonally driven behaviors.)
Females
Often described as “quicker to train” because they mature mentally faster. A young female Malinois may focus more during training since she’s less likely to be overly playful or hyper. They tend to obey commands reliably once they understand. However, females can also be sensitive and may take things to heart, so positive, reward-based training works best. It’s not surprising that females perform better in rescue missions and tend to listen to their trainers more. Their temperament is gentler, and they respond more reasonably in emergencies.
Either sex will do best with firm, consistent leadership and plenty of positive reinforcement. Puppy classes and obedience school are strongly recommended to handle their energy and intelligence.
Belgian Malinois Spaying & Neutering
Deciding when to spay or neuter your Malinois is an important choice. That’s why timing matters. We recommend you wait until your pup is physically mature It can help avoid certain growth issues.
Males
Often reach sexual maturity around 6–9 months. Many vets recommend neutering around 12–18 months in large breeds like Malinois to allow proper bone growth. Early neutering (before 1 year) can lead to longer legs and an increased risk of joint problems. Neutering also tends to reduce male behaviors like urine-marking or roaming, once he’s mature.
Females
Typically have their first heat between 6–12 months. A common guideline is to spay her after her first heat (often around 12–18 months), which can significantly lower risks of mammary tumors and eliminate the chance of unwanted pregnancy. Waiting until after growth plates close helps prevent urinary and skeletal issues. If you’re not planning to breed, plan a spay surgery on or after 12 months, after the first heat.
Always discuss with your veterinarian. Some studies suggest that early sterilization can influence growth plate development and increase certain health risks, so many breeders and vets now favor waiting until puppyhood is over. These procedures should be done after the period of growth. Otherwise, a dog can have issues with the spine and hips in the future.
Belgian Malinois Male Vs Female: Feeding & Nutrition
Belgian Malinois are active, muscular dogs that do best on a high-quality, high-protein diet. Quality is key: choose a dog food labeled for complete and balanced nutrition by AAFCO standards.
Protein & Calories
Because Malinois burn a lot of energy, their food should have a high protein content (e.g., real meat) to support muscle and stamina. Avoid foods with too many fillers. Active adult Malinois may need more calories than average dogs of similar weight. If your Malinois is professionally trained, we recommend feeding a raw and nutritious diet. That way, you’ll help your dog perform at its best.
Feeding Schedule
A typical schedule is twice daily – once in the morning and once in the evening. Puppies require more frequent meals (up to 3–4 times a day) until about 6–12 months of age. Always split the daily ration into at least two feedings to keep blood sugar stable and prevent gulping.
Portion Control
Follow the feeding guidelines on your dog food bag as a starting point, but adjust amounts based on your dog’s activity level and body condition. A very active male may need significantly more than a smaller, less active female. Watch your dog’s weight and body shape. You should be able to feel their ribs (but not see them). Give treats sparingly (no more than10% of daily calories) and use them for training rewards.
Consult a Vet
Because individual needs vary, it’s best to consult your vet about diet and portions. A nutrition plan that keeps your Malinois lean and energetic (not overweight) will help him live a longer, healthier life.
Belgian Malinois Male Vs Female: Grooming & Care
The Belgian Malinois has a short, dense double coat that sheds seasonally (usually heavier in spring and fall). Grooming is relatively easy but should be consistent:
Brushing
Aim to brush your Malinois once or twice a week. A slicker or bristle brush plus a sturdy comb work well. Weekly brushing removes loose undercoat and stimulates healthy hair growth. During heavy shed seasons, you may brush more often. A damp-brush or a de-shedding tool (like an undercoat rake) can help manage hair without damaging the top coat.
Bathing
Plan on a monthly bath, or more often during peak shedding. Use a gentle, hypoallergenic dog shampoo (the breed can have sensitive skin) and follow with a conditioner to prevent dryness. Over-bathing can strip natural oils, so once a month is usually enough unless your dog gets very dirty. Females tend to shed more during their heat cycle, so get ready to give them more hygiene and baths during this period.
Nails, Ears, and Teeth
Trim nails regularly or use an electric nail grinder (as sold by BelgianMalinois.store) to keep them short. Check ears weekly – clean them if you see dirt or wax buildup, using a vet-approved ear cleaner. Brush teeth 2–3 times per week to prevent tartar. Also watch your Malinois’s nose and paw pads: because they are relatively hairless, these can dry or crack. Moisturize cracked pads/nose with appropriate balms.
Coat Care Tools
For first-time Malinois owners, certain grooming tools are highly recommended. For example, a double-sided FurErase brush has a knot cutter on one side and a shedding comb on the other, specifically made for Malinois coats. We also recommend keeping on hand a hypoallergenic shampoo, a nail grinder, and even a VacuGroom vacuum tool to pick up the copious hair these dogs shed. In short, invest in a good brush and grooming kit: managing shedding is an ongoing task for this breed.
Belgian Malinois Male Vs Female: Special Care & Considerations
Whether male or female, a Belgian Malinois needs mental stimulation as much as physical exercise. They are known for their intelligence and guard instincts. Keep them busy with training games, puzzle toys, or obedience challenges. In our store, you can find great toys for Mals and also many other equipment that will help you in training lessons. Besides the best harnesses for Belgian Malinois, you’ll also find bite sleeves and bite suits that are used by professionals.
Before bringing a Malinois to your family, make sure you keep in mind the following:
Long periods alone can lead to destructive behavior. They may chew or dig out of boredom and destroy literally everything in their vicinity. From carpets, beds, doors, to your shoes and other items.
These dogs have to be busy
Another key point: Malinois thrive when they have a “job.” Activities like agility, tracking, herding classes, or advanced obedience are excellent outlets. Socialization can’t be overstated – puppies should meet many people, dogs, and situations in a positive way to build confidence and curb natural wariness. Without early socialization, both males and females can become shy or suspicious.
Males often demand a bit more physical outlet and training effort, but may bond strongly and make excellent running or working partners. Females may be slightly calmer, easier to housebreak and train, and have slightly lower risk of certain health issues (like hip dysplasia).
Ultimately, consider your lifestyle. If you want a high-octane exercise partner and don’t mind a larger dog, a male might fit. If you prefer a slightly smaller dog that matures quickly and you can commit to early spay, a female could be ideal. Both sexes will give you loyalty and drive. However, always remember – owning a Malinois of either gender means committing to daily exercise, consistent training, and diligent care.
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