Belgian Malinois vs Golden Retriever

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Breed Snapshot

Life Expectancy:
14 to 16 years
Size:

Large

Maintenance Level:

Medium

Shed Level:

High

Best For

Belgian Malinois thrive on mental stimulation and structured activity. Known for intelligence and versatility, they make excellent working dogs. These loyal dogs are ideal for experienced pet parents seeking a trainable companion with a high...

Belgian Malinois thrive on mental stimulation and structured activity. Known for intelligence and versatility, they make excellent working dogs. These loyal dogs are ideal for experienced pet parents seeking a trainable companion with a high energy level.

Belgian Malinois Temperament

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 cue...

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.

Belgian Malinois Traits

Friendliness
Exercise Needs
Health Issues
Barking Tendencies
Grooming Needs
Shedding Level
Training Needs
Good With Kids
Good With Cats
Good As A Service Dog
Good For Apartments & Small Homes
Biting Tendencies
Energy Level
Good With Other Dogs
Playfulness
Sensitive to Cold Weather
Sensitive to Warm Weather
Good For First Time Pet Parents
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Breed Snapshot

Life Expectancy:
10 to 12 years
Size:

Medium

Maintenance Level:

High

Shed Level:

High

Best For

Golden Retrievers, known for their friendly disposition, thrive on companionship and exercise. Intelligent and adaptable, these loyal dogs make ideal family pets for those who can provide lots of love and mental stimulation.

Golden Retriever Temperament

The Golden Retriever personality is naturally outgoing and eager to please. Although individual personalities can vary, most Goldens love people and social outings, thriving in homes with lively environments. Generally, Goldens are born to mingle and see everyone as a potential new best friend. Whenever they meet someone ne...

The Golden Retriever personality is naturally outgoing and eager to please. Although individual personalities can vary, most Goldens love people and social outings, thriving in homes with lively environments.

Generally, Goldens are born to mingle and see everyone as a potential new best friend. Whenever they meet someone new, they seem to say, “Hi! I am so glad we met. Do you have a ball to throw for me now that we’re friends?”

That friendly demeanor, coupled with their moderate weight and height, make Golden Retrievers excellent dogs for families with young children. However, not all Goldens are without challenges. When bringing a Golden home, cautiously introduce them to household members, especially smaller ones like children and cats, and be sure to teach small children how to behave and interact with dogs as well.

Goldens are also intelligent; they’re quick learners and easy to train. They were and are bred to be gundogs, retrieving waterfowl with their soft mouths, a characteristic that allows them to carry delicate items without applying excessive pressure. They often serve as guide dogs, therapy dogs and search-and-rescue dogs. For optimal health, Golden Retrievers need ample mental and physical exercise.

Keep in mind, though, that even the best-trained Goldens can be mischievous. So be prepared for occasional capers and learn to laugh with your dog as they “help” you unload the laundry basket.

Golden Retriever Traits

Friendliness
Exercise Needs
Health Issues
Barking Tendencies
Grooming Needs
Shedding Level
Training Needs
Good With Kids
Good With Cats
Good As A Service Dog
Good For Apartments & Small Homes
Biting Tendencies
Energy Level
Good With Other Dogs
Playfulness
Sensitive to Cold Weather
Sensitive to Warm Weather
Good For First Time Pet Parents
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