Belgian Malinois vs Dutch Shepherd

The Belgian Malinois’ personality is as spirited as they come, making them a good fit for pet parents who love to be on the go. Ready to toil tirelessly at any task, a Mal dog has a strong work ethic and is quick to respond to their human’s cues and commands.

The Belgian Malinois’ intelligence sets them apart, and their competency is a big reason why this herding breed is hardly ever unemployed. Originally, the Malinois served as a watchdog on farms and ranches, though today their career opportunities have expanded into public service. In fact, you almost want to salute these pups as they join search and rescue missions alongside the police and military.

While they make great guard dogs, it’s wise to supervise children around this breed. If you’d like to mix a Belgian Malinois with kids and babies in your home, know that compatibility rests heavily on early and consistent training and socialization, as well as teaching children how to interact with dogs. Other animals, strangers and sudden movements could startle this alert, watchful canine. Know too that the Belgian Malinois dog breed has a naturally high prey drive, which means they’ll chase moving objects (think toddlers, cars, cats and other dogs), so a firm hand and lots of obedience lessons are critical.

Raising a Belgian Malinois puppy is indeed rewarding, in part because their intelligence and trainability make them a joy to teach. If you select this breed as your own, you’ll quickly see why their reliability and razor-sharp smarts are prized by so many.

Just as you wouldn’t expect a Havanese to be a fierce watchdog, the Dutch Shepherd temperament isn’t all cuddles and snuggles—but that doesn’t mean they aren’t affectionate! These dogs are faithful pets and people-pleasers who are happiest right by your side, and while they’re active and highly motivated, they’re also happy to lounge by your feet when the day is done.

Dutch Shepherds live to work, but they’re good at knowing when it’s quittin’ time, too. When the job is done, they’ll settle down and recharge (and will let you do the same). Their intelligence, endurance and go-to-the-ends-of-the-earth-for-you loyalty make them both great pets and a top-notch working dog (aka a dog bred to perform a job). There’s a reason they’re a preferred breed for the police and military, and why you’ll often see them as service dogs. Dutch Shepherds can put blinders on to focus on the job at hand and won’t rest until it’s done—and you better believe it will be done right.

At the same time, they can switch gears in the blink of an eye. Their stoic, no-nonsense mugs belie the friendly, faithful and playful dog they are; these pups are great playmates for kids! They aren’t naturally aggressive, but they will keep strangers at bay. If they aren’t working, Dutchies are happiest when they are with their family, and they hate to be left out. When they’re alone for too long, they are sure to get bored and lonely, and undesirable behaviors (like chewing your shoes) may pop up. Keep a Dutch Shepherd busy, give them lots of affection, and you’ll be besties for life.