Siberian Husky vs Belgian Malinois

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siberian husky running in snow

Breed Snapshot

Life Expectancy:
12 to 14 years
Size:

Medium

Maintenance Level:

High

Shed Level:

High

Best For

Siberian Huskies are as energetic as they are strikingly beautiful. This independent breed needs firm training, as well as consistent exercise and mental stimulation. If you're looking for a loyal canine partner to join your...

Siberian Huskies are as energetic as they are strikingly beautiful. This independent breed needs firm training, as well as consistent exercise and mental stimulation. If you're looking for a loyal canine partner to join your active adventures, this might just be the breed for you.

Siberian Husky Temperament

Siberian Huskies, renowned for their friendliness and intelligence, are wonderful companions who thrive on social interaction. They have an inherent need to be surrounded by both humans and fellow canines, and express their sociable nature in unique ways: Many will “talk” to you using howls, growls and whimpers, which is...

Siberian Huskies, renowned for their friendliness and intelligence, are wonderful companions who thrive on social interaction. They have an inherent need to be surrounded by both humans and fellow canines, and express their sociable nature in unique ways: Many will “talk” to you using howls, growls and whimpers, which is an endearing part of their personality.

Their affability comes with two caveats:

  • Since they’re predisposed to welcoming strangers, they lack the traits of a typical guard dog. (Not a problem if you don’t need a guard dog!)
  • Siberian Huskies don’t enjoy long periods of isolation or contemplation. In such circumstances where they are stressed or bored, they may contemplate, and act on, destructive behaviors. If left in the backyard, Huskies are notorious for their escape attempts. Secure fencing is a must to prevent exploratory escapades.

Huskies are also strong-willed, a trait that may make training a bit of a challenge. They’re typically good around kids and other dogs, but they do have a high prey drive and may chase cats and small animals. However, with an experienced pup parent who can train and socialize them consistently, they can be a well-behaved family member.

MORE: Behavior Of Your Siberian Husky

Siberian Husky 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:
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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