German Shorthaired Pointer vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison

German Shorthaired Pointer vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed ComparisonBelgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) is originated from Belgium but German Shorthaired Pointer is originated from Germany. Both Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) and German Shorthaired Pointer are having almost same height. Both Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) and German Shorthaired Pointer are having almost same weight. Both Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) and German Shorthaired Pointer has same life span. Both Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) and German Shorthaired Pointer has almost same litter size. Both Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) and German Shorthaired Pointer requires Low Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Gun dog
undefined
Belgium
Germany
Height Male:
61 - 66 cm
24 - 26 inches
53 - 63 cm
20 - 25 inches
Height Female:
56 - 61 cm
22 - 25 inches
53 - 63 cm
20 - 25 inches
Weight Male:
29 - 34 kg
63 - 75 pounds
20 - 32 kg
44 - 71 pounds
Weight Female:
25 - 34 kg
55 - 75 pounds
20 - 32 kg
44 - 71 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 14 Years
12 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
6 - 10
7 - 12
Size:
Medium
Large
Other Names:
Mali,Berger Belge Malinois, Mechelse Berger
Deutsch Kurzhaar, GSP
Colors Available:
Fawn-colored with black tips on the hairs, brown or red
Liver - ticked or speckled
Coat:
short and dense
Short and smooth
Shedding:
Constant, Seasonal
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Social, Territorial
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Grooming:
Low Maintenance
Low Maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

belgian shepherd dog malinoisThe Belgian Malinois is one of 4 Belgian Shepherd varieties. The dogs were developed- and hail from Belguim. The Malinois has a short, fawn colored coat. The American Kennel Club recognizes that the Malinois is a separate breed from the other 3 varieties. It was in 1892 that Professor Reul wrote the first Belgian Shepherd Dog standard, recognizing 3 varieties – dogs with short coats, dogs with long coats and dogs with rough coats.

Today's Malinois goes back to a breeding pair owned by Adrien Janssens. It was in 1885 that he bought a fawn, rough-haired dog, breeding the dog with a short-haired dog named Lise de Laeken. After other breedings, the two dogs were recognized as ancestors of the modern Belgian Shepherd Dogs.

The city of Malines formed a club for the promotion of these fawn short hairs and the name Malinois became synonymous with them. In March 1992, the American Belgian Malinois Club received AKC parent club status.

german shorthaired pointerBeing a member of the Sporting Group, the German Shorthaired Pointer is a dog which was developed in the 19th century in Germany, and specifically for hunting. Hunters wanted a dog who could hunt all types of game and in all types of terrain.

There are quite a few different theories that exist regarding the origin of the German Shorthaired Pointer, but most experts believe that the breed came from a mix of old Spanish pointer and traditional continental pointers with further crossings of German Bloodhound and French Gascon to enhance scenting abilities.

The dogs popularity flourished in Europe and in 1891 the Klub Kurzhaar was founded to maintain the guidelines for this new and beautiful sporting dog.

Description

Similarities to German Shepherd

belgian shepherd dog malinois puppy - descriptionThe Malinois is a medium-size Belgian shepherd dog. People sometimes mistake them for the German Shepherd as they are fairly similar to look at. The Malinois however is a smaller, lighter boned dog with naturally upright ears and a black-masked face. He is shorthaired and fawn-colored with black tips on the hairs, although other colors are brown or red too. He is an intelligent and active dog, always having been used for herding-, police- and rescue work.

Reserved or Friendly

You’ll find the Malinois somewhat unpredictable as some are friendly and confident while other can be shy and withdrawn around strangers. This is a dog who loves to be around his human family, but to bring out the best in him, training and socialization classes will be necessary. Well-socialized Malinois are always good with children and other pets, more so if they’ve been raised with them.

german shorthaired pointer puppy - descriptionAthletic, muscular and sleek, the medium to large sized German Shorthaired Pointer is at home on land and water. He stands between 53 to 63cm in height and weighs roughly between 20 – 32kg.

The eyes are brown, the ears are fairly long, they are floppy and set high on the head. The tail is always docked to a particular length and is held straight out from the body so that it actually forms a line with the entire body and the head.

The dog has a short coat which is essentially a combination of liver and white speckles or dappling.

Temperament:

A whole lot of factors come into play when looking at the temperament of a dog. The kind of owners the dog has can have a huge affect on the way he turns out. Nonetheless every dog, including the German Shorthaired Pointer will require training and socialization to become obedient and relaxed around strangers and other pets.

The German Shorthaired Pointer is an intelligent, confident, bold, affectionate dog that wants to please his owners and he is easy to train. He is good with children too, just loving all interaction with his human family.

He is an energetic dog and will require plenty of exercising to avoid him becoming bored, frustrated and destructive.

Characteristics

belgian shepherd dog malinois dog - characteristicsThe Belgian Malinois makes a wonderful guard dog and he works hard to ensure that his human family, whom he adores, are well protected under his watch. They’re such intelligent dogs too that you may feel inclined to pass over some of your chores to him.

He responds well to training, and to get the best from this breed, start with training and socialization as soon as you bring your puppy home.

Socialization is excellent as it introduces your puppy to different people, animals as well as situations.

He is an adaptable dog and can live in an apartment if he is well exercised. He can be your devoted and loyal friend for a good number of years but you will have to do your part in providing him with the best care possible.

german shorthaired pointer dog - characteristicsAs an intelligent hunting dog, the German Shorthaired Pointer is also a loving family companion and he just loves spending time outdoors with his human family.

He is pretty much an all-rounder – playful, energetic, a good watchdog and a loving and devoted family friend.

For an active, outdoor kind of family, include the German Shorthaired Pointer in all your activities and you’re going to ensure that you have a most wonderful 4-legged friend.

Health Problems

belgian shepherd dog malinois puppies - health problemsBelgian Malinois are generally healthy dogs. However every dog, regardless of breed, can pick up illnesses, and it is always wise to be aware of some of the diseases your Malinois might face.

Hip Dysplasia

An inherited condition where the thigh bone doesn't fit properly into the hip joint. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

A degenerative eye disorder that can lead to blindness.

Dental problems

Brush his teeth at least 2 or 3 times a week to remove tartar build-up. Too much plague leads to inflamed gums, bad breath, pus inside the mouth and even loss of teeth.

german shorthaired pointer puppies - health problemsMost German Shorthaired Pointers are healthy dogs, but even so, just like with any other dog breed, they can be subject to some hereditary disorders as well as some of the other common dog illnesses there are -

Chocolate poisoning:

Dogs are such devoted family members that you just want to give in to them and pop the chocolate treats you love into their mouths. But dog’s can’t eat chocolate! Just one piece can affect a small dog. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning include diarrhea,vomiting, panting and shaking and even worse, a heart attack. If your dog has got hold of some chocolate, get him to the vet immediately.

Parvo:

Your German Shorthaired Pointer, as a puppy, should have his puppy vaccines. If your dog has this terrible disease, he will be lethargic, have diarrhea and almost seem out of it. Survival isn’t always guaranteed and the best way to avoid this killer disease, is to ensure your puppies vaccinations are up to date.

Bloat:

Check your pet for Bloat or an enlarged stomach which can twist because of trapped gas. This can be deadly for your pet. Get him immediately to the vet. He’ll be restless, lethargic and trying to vomit.

Caring The Pet

Regular Brushing as he’s a Shedder

belgian shepherd dog malinois dogs - caringBecause the Malinois is a constant shedder, with a couple of heavy shedding periods during the year, you’ll need to be conscientious with his grooming and brush him at least twice a week to get rid of loose hairs and to give his thick coat a glossy, healthy look to it.

Exercise

Because of their high energy, Malinois aren’t recommended for couch-potato type owners. It will be cruel to buy such a dog and to leave him to waste away with boredom and frustration in your back yard. He’ll want lots of rough and tumble, ball games, runs in the park or in the country and long walks.

Feeding

Belgian Shepherd Malinois puppies are vulnerable when they’re tiny, and it would be wise to speak to your vet about superb nutrition to build up a puppy’s immune system.

An excellent way to ensure the health of your growing Malinois is to give him a home prepared meals along with commercially manufactured food recommended by your vet. You can’t just put a bowl of commercially manufactured dog food in front of him day after day month after month.

Apart from what your vet recommends, give him some brown rice, some cooked vegetables and some raw meat. Raw meat will ensure he can fight of skin infections. The age of the dog, emotional state and environmental influences can all play a role in skin diseases with dogs, but by ensuring some raw meat in his diet, the immune system is strengthened and skin disorders are eliminated. Always ensure a steady supply of fresh water.

Grooming:

german shorthaired pointer dogs - caringThe German Shorthaired Pointer isn’t a heavy shedder. He has a short coat which requires brushing at least twice a week to remove loose hairs and keep it shiny and sleek.

Also check in- and outside the ears, clip his nails and brush his teeth 2 or 3 times a week.

Diet:

Only the highest grade kibble will do. Mix in some of your own home-made cooked brown rice, vegetables and chicken from time to time and also ensure your pet gets in some raw meat as well. Cool, fresh water should be constantly available.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. German Shorthaired Pointer vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. German Shorthaired Pointer vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. German Shorthaired Pointer vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. German Shorthaired Pointer vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. German Shorthaired Pointer vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. German Shorthaired Pointer vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison