Why You Shouldn't Adopt a Belgian Malinois

Channing Tatum stars in a new movie simply called, "Dog." And after you watch it your first thought might be, "I need a dog like that!" but let me stop you there.

The dog that stars alongside Tatum is certainly a beautiful animal and sure, you may think having one of your own might make the perfect family companion animal, but you're wrong.

What Breed is Dog?

The dog that stars in "Dog" is a Belgian Malinois and these dogs are a special breed that requires a special kind of human. And by special, I mean well experienced at handling strong, deeply intelligent working breeds.

Photo by Gerrie van der Walt on Unsplash

According to one animal rescue online,

This breed can be amazing in the right hands but they require a lot of everything. If you are considering getting a Malinois, please, first go meet some Malinois of all ages at your local rescue...
...They are highly energetic and super smart-which is hard to manage as a puppy and young adult if you can't devote the time and patience to training.

What is a Working Breed?

When it comes to dogs, a working breed is one that has literally been genetically bred to work - think sheepdogs, cattle dogs, and shepherds. The Belgian Malinois is no different. They are genetically wired to have high energy so they can perform the tasks that they were born to do.

Photo by Jason Jarrach on Unsplash

According to the American Kennel Club,

The smart, confident, and versatile Belgian Malinois is a world-class worker who forges an unbreakable bond with his human partner. To deny a Mal activity and the pleasure of your company is to deprive him of his very reasons for being. Belgian Malinois are squarely built, proud, and alert herders standing 22 to 26 inches.

The Bottom Line

Basically, these are not going to make the best family pets unless you have the skill and dedication to work and train them properly. So while cute and adorable as puppies and strikingly handsome and athletic as adults, it is best if the average family passes on bringing a Belgian Malinois into their home.

If you are looking to add a new pet to the family, might we suggest that you visit a local animal rescue?

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Does your loyal pup's breed make the list? Read on to see if you'll be bragging to the neighbors about your dog's intellectual prowess the next time you take your fur baby out for a walk. Don't worry: Even if your dog's breed doesn't land on the list, that doesn't mean he's not a good boy--some traits simply can't be measured.