How Long Does the Average Belgian Malinois Live?

Quick Take

• Most Belgian Malinois owners underestimate how far past the average lifespan these dogs can actually reach, and the factors that get them there aren't what you'd expect. See the lifespan details →
• A Belgian Malinois that moved from working life to the suburbs faces a hidden health risk most owners never see coming. Explore their activity needs →
• One daily habit unrelated to exercise or diet quietly determines how long your Belgian Malinois lives, yet most owners skip it entirely. See daily teeth brushing →

The Belgian Malinois is a working breed originally developed for herding. Recognized for their stamina and loyalty, they are widely used in police and military operations worldwide. Although they resemble German Shepherds, the Belgian Malinois is a purebred dog that originated in Belgium in the late 19th century. They were introduced to the United States in 1911 and officially recognized as a distinct breed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1959.

The average Belgian Malinois is a medium-to-large, athletically built herding dog. Males typically stand 24 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 60 and 80 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, measuring 22 to 24 inches tall and weighing between 40 and 60 pounds. These dogs thrive when actively engaged in physical activities. They are a people-oriented breed, making them excellent family dogs. Continue reading to discover how long the average Belgian Malinois can live and tips for helping them live a long, healthy life.

Belgian Malinois Lifespan

The average Belgian Malinois has a lifespan of 10 to 14 years. However, with a healthful diet, active lifestyle, good genetics, and routine veterinary care, many can live to 15 or 16 years.

As a highly energetic working breed, maintaining a healthy weight through daily exercise and high-quality nutrition is critical to preventing joint strain and obesity.

Although they are a healthy breed, they may be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which affects their vision, and epilepsy, which causes seizures.

Belgian Malinois Diet

The Belgian Malinois’ lifespan can be influenced by its diet, and feeding your dog high-quality food can help it live longer. Belgian Malinois are naturally lean, muscular, highly athletic dogs. However, Belgian Malinois that have transitioned to a less active, suburban lifestyle do not require as much food as those that are more active or working. Therefore, it is important to monitor their diet and exercise to prevent them from becoming overweight, which can shorten their lifespan.

Health Conditions

Belgian Malinois are generally healthy, but they do have a predisposition to certain conditions, including:

• Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: These are hereditary conditions that affect the hip and elbow joints. Dysplasia occurs because the hip and elbow joints do not fit properly into their sockets.
  This can result in pain and lameness, which can be managed with medication or, in extreme cases, surgery.
• Anaesthesia Sensitivity: Some anecdotal reports suggest Belgian Malinois may be more sensitive to anesthesia than some other breeds, but there is no scientific consensus or evidence of a significantly higher risk of death under anesthesia for this breed.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A degenerative eye disorder that causes blindness as the photoreceptors at the back of the eye degenerate.

Caring for Your Belgian Malinois

Belgian Malinois need to be active to maintain both their physical and psychological health. Although a large fenced yard or pasture with space to run is ideal, these adaptable dogs can adjust to life in close quarters if they are given sufficient opportunities for exercise. They require at least 90 to 120 minutes of vigorous physical activity per day, ideally broken into multiple sessions.

Belgian Malinois prefer colder climates but can adapt to warmer temperatures if necessary.
They require lots of affection and attention, and thrive in busy families.

Belgian Malinois Grooming

Belgian Malinois have a double coat. Both their topcoat and thick undercoat are weather-resistant as they were bred to work outdoors. These dogs are easy to groom, and brushing them weekly should suffice. This breed will shed year-round, but more so in fall and spring.

Proper dental hygiene also affects lifespan. Belgian Mainois should have their teeth brushed daily to preserve dental health.