When you are considering adding a new dog to the pack, you need to make sure that the dog in question gets along with other canines, especially if you are already in a multi-dog household or plan to be around other dogs. Perhaps you have a breed in mind – the Belgian Shepherd, but you are not sure it will be a good fit.
So, the question is, do Belgian Malinois get along with other dogs? While all dogs are different, even dogs of the same breed, there are few things worth knowing before bringing one of these majestic dogs into your home.
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Do Belgian Malinois Get Along With Other Dogs?
Most dogs can learn to get along with other dogs, but some breeds tend to be more dog friendly than others. Choosing a breed that generally gets along with other dogs is important if you already have dogs at home or if you plan to get another dog further down the line.
The best way to learn is to have a close look at the temperament of the Belgian Malinois, as it can tell us plenty about its ability to live alongside other canines.
You also have to consider your dog’s individual personality. Just because the Belgian Malinois is known to get along well with other dogs, it doesn’t mean that yours necessarily will.
Proper Introduction
The key is to introduce the dogs properly, as the Belgian Malinois is often great with both dogs and kids, as long as there has been a proper introduction on their terms. You usually want to make sure you let the dogs meet on neutral ground, such as outside, at a park, or somewhere where neither dog feels superior.
The issue when you bring a new dog into the home of a Belgian Malinois is that it might feel the need to guard its family, which could get the dogs off on the wrong foot. Another thing about these dogs is that they don’t always forget easily, so a failed introduction could have long-term consequences.
By having the introduction take place on neutral turf, neither dog will feel the need to protect his or her territory or the family that lives in the home.
Importance of Early Socialization
You can’t keep your Belgian Malinois cooped up in the house for years and then expect it to suddenly love other dogs. No, you need to make sure your dog is properly socialized already as a puppy.
The first few weeks of a puppy’s life are crucial when it comes to socialization and the future ability to get along with other dogs. Young and unvaccinated puppies shouldn’t meet too many dogs, though, especially if you are unsure of whether the other dog is vaccinated, so how do you socialize a Belgian Malinois puppy?
A smart move is to carry the puppy around while waiting for him or her to be fully vaccinated! Parvovirus and other puppy diseases are not airborne, and it is perfectly safe to carry your puppy on walks to see the surroundings and get familiar with dogs passing by.
As the puppy gets older and receives all necessary shots, you can start going for short walks, organizing puppy playdates, and making sure your Belgian Malinois puppy learns how to play with other dogs.
Professional Training
What happens if your Belgian Malinois is already older and not exactly dog-friendly? Dogs can become hostile towards other dogs for many reasons, such as poor socialization as puppies or incidents where they may have had a bad experience.
In some cases, these behaviors can be curbed. If you have a Belgian Malinois that you aren’t sure would do good with other dogs, then perhaps you could both benefit from hiring a trainer. A professional trainer can help assess your dog and his or her behavior and set up a personalized action plan for how to proceed.
Some opt for board and training classes, but when it comes to the Belgian Malinois, you could probably benefit from being there during the training sessions. You need to learn too, and it is recommended that you find a trainer that will work with both you and your dog.
How To Train Your Belgian Malinois With Peace Of Mind:
If you haven’t trained your Belgian Malinois properly, then this is the perfect time to start. Whatever bad behavior your Shepherd has, whether it’s barking at night or other bad behaviors, using the right training program is the key to having an obedient and happy pup.
WithBrain Training For Dogs, you’ll save yourself a ton of time and effort. Instead of banging your head against the wall trying to figure out why your dog won’t listen, you’ll follow a path that has been tried, tested, and most importantly, that’s given proven results. Not to mention the fact, you’ll be able to fit the course around your schedule, not fit your schedule around a trainer or obedience class.
So instead of worrying about whether they’re going to be well-behaved or not, you’ll only have to worry about how much fun you’ll have with them!
And in most cases, it’s still going to be:
Cheaper than hiring a professional.
Cheaper than replacing everything they might break.
And definitely cheaper than a lawsuit against you, if they decide to bite someone.
Just imagine how great it will feel to finally be able to trust your Belgian Malinois completely and never worry whether they’ll be naughty or not. Instead, you’ll have the peace of mind that you have a well-behaved pup, and the boundaries you set for them will always be there, EVEN IF YOU’RE NOT.
And the best part is it also has a 60-day money-back guarantee! So there’s no reason not to giveBrain Training For Dogs a try!
So if you’re tired of your dog’s bad behavior or how they react around other people and pooches, then give it a try! You’ll be amazed by the results!
(You can also check out afull review here to learn exactly what the course has to offer!)
Best Companion Dogs For Belgian Malinois
When choosing a companion for a Belgian Malinois, there are a few pointers that can be helpful to make sure you get it right. They can learn to get along with any type of dog, provided the other dog is friendly and well-socialized, but we have listed a few of the breeds that are highly compatible with the Belgian Malinois.
Siberian Husky
A Siberian Husky may not be the first breed that comes to mind when looking for an ideal companion for a Belgian Malinois, but they are actually a surprisingly good match! Both are very determined dog breeds that enjoy working in a pack, and they can provide each other company when you are away.
Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is a very calm dog with stable energy, something the Belgian Malinois can benefit from. The contrasts help bring down certain high-energy traits in the Belgian Malinois and are likely to provide it with equilibrium and comfort also when left alone.
Labrador Retriever
Labs are incredibly friendly dogs that tend to get along with everyone, and they are likely to make friends with your Belgian Malinois right away. The friendliness of the Labrador Retriever versus the more reserved nature of a Malinois blends well.
Beagle
If you want a smaller dog that will still get along with Belgian Malinois – the Beagle is a breed to consider! They are friendly, playful, have enough energy to keep up with a high-energy dog breed, and they are always up for an adventure!
Border Collie
Both the Malinois and the Border Collie are working breeds. They are intelligent and athletic, which makes it easy to find activities that are suitable for both. You can practice dog sports, compete or take long and challenging hikes together.
Havanese
Looking for something even smaller? These good-natured dogs make great friends for larger breeds like the Belgian Malinois, as they often love other animals (dogs, cats, and smaller pets) and aren’t likely to challenge your Malinois. There will be a size difference for sure, but neither is likely to mind.
Cocker Spaniel
Cocker spaniels are calm but playful dogs that are hard to resist! They have a goofy side that will help them get along with a Belgian Malinois while also being smart, physically active, and always ready for an adventure.
Pug
Getting a dog that is too small might not be ideal, as the Belgian Malinois is a big and strong dog, but Pugs are perfect little fur friends that are robust enough to still be able to play with their much larger friends.
Standard Poodle
Known for being very easy-going and social dogs, the standard poodle will love running around the yard with your Belgian Malinois but will also help your Malinois learn how to relax and take it easy between your adventures.
Saluki
An unexpected breed that is surprisingly compatible with the Belgian Malinois is the Saluki! These beautiful dogs have impressive grace and elegance, but they are also active dogs that can run fast, love to explore, and have very mellow and friendly personalities.
FAQ
Asking questions is always beneficial, as it helps learn more about an important subject like socializing a Belgian Malinois. If you still haven’t had all your questions answered, then you might find what you need here below.
Do Belgian Malinois Get Along With Small Dogs?
While the Belgian Shepherd might not be great with small animals like cats, hamsters, and cage birds, due to their prey instinct, they tend to be great with small dogs. The Belgian Malinois does not appear to pay much attention to the size. However, make sure you introduce a small dog properly and watch for any signs of prey drive.
Is A Belgian Malinois A Dangerous Dog
The breed has gotten a bit of a reputation, which is possibly a result of these dogs being used as police dogs and in law enforcement. You see videos of Belgian Malinois dogs attacking bad guys or training to attack, but are they dangerous?
The answer is no. Belgian Malinois aren’t used in law enforcement and for protection because they are dangerous; and instead, they are used for their intelligence and ability to learn. If you raise your Belgian Malinois right, it will likely grow up to be a wonderful family dog.
Do Belgian Malinois Need Another Dog
Almost all dogs can benefit from the company of other canines, as dogs are pack animals. As we mentioned at the beginning of this article – all dogs are different, and it is hard to say whether all Belgian Malinois dogs need a companion, but most can definitely benefit from it.
You should never get another dog just because you think your dog needs a friend. Sit down and really think about it. Do you have the money it takes to feed another dog? How about vaccinations or vet bills if the dog gets sick? Get another dog if you want one and if you feel you can handle it, and not only for your dog.
Recap
The Belgian Malinois, as a breed, tends to get along very well with other well-socialized and friendly dogs. How you introduce the dogs matter, though, as the Belgian Malinois can sometimes hold a grudge if there is an incident.
If you are planning on adding another dog to a household with a Malinois, you want to make sure you consider your dog’s mentality. Is your Malinois dog friendly? If the answer is yes, then the next step is to pick a dog breed that is generally compatible with such an active breed and to prepare for a proper introduction.
Knowing how to introduce dogs can be difficult, and if you are unsure of whether a Belgian Malinois is right for you, or if you don’t know if you should get a friend for the Belgian Malinois you already have, then you may want to speak to a professional trainer for help and guidance.
