Saarlooswolfhond vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison

Saarlooswolfhond vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed ComparisonBelgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) is originated from Belgium but Saarlooswolfhond is originated from Netherlands. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) may grow 9 cm / 3 inches shorter than Saarlooswolfhond. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) may weigh 11 kg / 24 pounds lesser than Saarlooswolfhond. Both Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) and Saarlooswolfhond has almost same life span. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) may have more litter size than Saarlooswolfhond. Both Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) and Saarlooswolfhond requires Low Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Herding dogs
undefined
Belgium
Netherlands
Height Male:
61 - 66 cm
24 - 26 inches
60 - 75 cm
23 - 30 inches
Height Female:
56 - 61 cm
22 - 25 inches
60 - 75 cm
23 - 30 inches
Weight Male:
29 - 34 kg
63 - 75 pounds
30 - 45 kg
66 - 100 pounds
Weight Female:
25 - 34 kg
55 - 75 pounds
30 - 45 kg
66 - 100 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 14 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
6 - 10
4 - 6
Size:
Medium
Large
Other Names:
Mali,Berger Belge Malinois, Mechelse Berger
Saarloos Wolf Dog, Saarloos Wolfhound
Colors Available:
Fawn-colored with black tips on the hairs, brown or red
cream, wolf-grey, white and red
Coat:
short and dense
Shortish, dense
Shedding:
Constant, Seasonal
Minimal, Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Social, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, 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.

saarlooswolfhondDutch breeder Leendert Saarloos began to breed German Shepherds to a European wolf. His goal was to bring out a dog that was more hard working.

The Dutch Kennel Club recognized this dog breed in 1975, and to give honor to the breeder, they gave the name to the dog - Saarloos Wolfdog. The dog was also recognized by the Federation Cynologique Internationale.

Today the Saarloos is regarded as a pet and companion. It was in 2015 that a study found that this dog showed more genetic association with the gray wolf.

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.

saarlooswolfhond puppy - descriptionThe Saarloos Wolfdog is a large dog standing at between 60–75cm male and female and weighing between 30 and 45kg. He is athletic and muscular with a short, dense coat. Colors are wolf-grey, white and red. The Saarloos has wolf-like expressions so the ears are erect, the muzzle pointed and the tail long and plumed. They eyes are a yellow color. The face is bright and alert, showing how intelligent he is.

Temperament

The Saarloos Wolfhound is full of energy so will be looking toward his owner to come up with good exercise for him.

A walk will always be welcome, but for such a lively dog, he’ll want something more energetic such as a hike, swimming, being allowed to run off his leash in the park and lots of vigorous ball- and rope games.

He is an independent dog and for this reason you’ll want him trained and socialized to make him obedient. He is loyal and loving but some of his wolf-like characteristics might mean that he isn’t a good choice for the first-time dog owner. If the first time dog owner is firm, consistent, strong and kind, then everything will be alright.

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.

saarlooswolfhond dog - characteristicsThe Saarloos Wolfhound is a beautiful wolf-like dog that is full of life and energy. When you bring him into your life, you’re going to to have a wonderful addition to your family.

He is an independent dog that is strong-willed so it pays to have him trained and socialized, and then he becomes a balanced, well mannered dog that is loving and loyal with his beloved human family.

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.

saarlooswolfhond puppies - health problemsA well bred Saarloos Wolfhound is regarded as very healthy, and with good care they can reach up to 12, 13, 14 or 15 years of age.

Hip Dysplasia:

This is a common canine disease which comes about when a dog’s hip joints don’t develop properly. For a dog diagnosed with hip dyslasia it can be painful lying down and getting around.

Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition, but diet also plays a part as well as environmental factors. All dogs breeds are susceptible to hip dysplasia. Try and avoid your dog putting on too much weight as then it puts excessive strain on the joints. There are different treatment options to make it more comfortable for your pet.

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.

Exercise:

saarlooswolfhond dogs - caringHe’s an active dog so he will need a good dose of exercise to keep that muscular, lean look.

Grooming:

You will need to brush the dense double coat twice a week to ensure the removal of loose hairs and to keep the coat shiny and glossy. Trim his nails and check inside his mouth as he can’t tell you when he has a rotten tooth which can cause a lot of pain.

Diet:

Feed puppies 4x a day.

Puppies 6 months on can have 2 meals a day.

Always feed your dog premium-quality dry food. Twice a week you can add home-made food to the dry kibble as a tasty treat. Add boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots. This food can all be chopped up and a portion added to the kibble. The rest can be frozen and then a portion warmed up for another meal.

Try and add some raw meat to his food occasionally as this helps to keep skin problems at bay.

Ensure there is always a bowl of fresh, cool water within his reach.

Your pet needs a warm, dry, comfortable place to sleep to call his own.

If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, make sure there is both shade and sun.

Spaying and Neutering – beneficial if you don’t want puppies.

Vaccinations for puppies and adults to stave off deadly canine diseases.

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. Saarlooswolfhond vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Saarlooswolfhond vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Saarlooswolfhond vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Saarlooswolfhond vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Saarlooswolfhond vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Saarlooswolfhond vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Saarlooswolfhond vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Saarlooswolfhond vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Saarlooswolfhond vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Saarlooswolfhond vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Saarlooswolfhond vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Saarlooswolfhond vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Saarlooswolfhond vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Saarlooswolfhond vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Saarlooswolfhond vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Saarlooswolfhond vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Saarlooswolfhond vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Saarlooswolfhond vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Saarlooswolfhond vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Saarlooswolfhond vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Saarlooswolfhond vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Saarlooswolfhond vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Saarlooswolfhond vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Saarlooswolfhond vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Saarlooswolfhond vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison