Did you know that a Belgian Malinois has an entire week dedicated to them in their country of origin, Belgium? This just goes to show the level of love, respect, and adoration these dogs command in their homeland. The same affection is gradually spreading across the world, making Belgian Malinois one of the most preferred breeds for both domestic and security purposes. However, there’s one aspect which usually causes mixed reactions among prospective Maltais owners, their shedding habits.
Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. While the Belgian Malinois is a wonderfully unique breed, noted for its remarkable intelligence, trainability, and dedication, they do come with a distinct personality and certain maintenance factors worth considering. Among these, shedding is considered a concern by many. We are about to unravel some of the truths and myths regarding the shedding patterns of a Belgian Malinois to help you decide if this breed is right for you.
Let’s strike at the heart of it, shall we? Yes, a Belgian Malinois does shed hair. However, they are not classified as a heavy shedding breed by the American Kennel Club (AKC). In fact, Maltais falls under the category of moderate shedders. What does this mean? Allow me to explain.
During most parts of the year, your Belgian Malinois will shed moderately, meaning you’ll encounter minimal fluffs of fur floating around the house. However, during a transitioning season, particularly in the spring and fall, they experience what’s known as “blowing coat”. This is a period during which their bodies are preparing for a switch from a heavy winter coat to a lighter summer one and vice versa. During these few weeks, the shedding can drastically kick up a notch, making your furry friend seem like a shedding machine.
Those of you who are familiar with dog breeds may draw a parallel between a Belgian Malinois and a German Shepherd in terms of looks. One interesting fact that distinguishes the two is that, while they may look quite similar, a Belgian Malinois usually sheds less compared to a German Shepherd. It is still noticeable, but not as heavy.
It’s normal for first-time owners and Belgian Malinois enthusiasts to wonder how to manage and control this shedding. Here’s a piece of good news! There are methods available that can help manage your Belgian Malinois’s shedding.
One of the most effective ways to control the shedding is by maintaining a consistent brushing routine. Brushing loosens and removes dead hair, helping to keep the coat and skin healthy. Aim to brush your Belgian Malinois at least once or twice a week during the “non-blowing coat” times, and more regularly, preferably daily, during the “blowing coat” season. This can considerably limit loose hair scattering around the house and save you from the horror of finding a hair-clad couch or bed linen!
Investing in a good quality grooming tool like a deshedding brush or a comb can make all the difference. A deshedding brush is designed to reach into the top coat and safely remove loose hair from the undercoat without hurting your pet. It not only controls the shedding but will also give your Belgian Malinois’s coat a shiny, healthy look. Grooming your pet also provides an excellent bonding time for you and your pooch.
Nutrition also plays a substantial role in managing shedding in Belgian Malinois. A diet rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids can improve your dog’s coat health, reducing shedding and promoting healthy and vibrant skin. Always opt for high-quality, balanced dog food for your Malinois, and ensure fresh, clean water is available at all times.
It’s also critical to avoid bathing your Belgian Malinois excessively. Too many baths can strip the coat of essential oils, causing the skin to become dry and promoting further shedding. Stick to bathing only when necessary, like when your Malinois gets into a particularly messy adventure, and always use dog-friendly, moisturizing shampoos.
In essence, while a Belgian Malinois does shed, it’s a manageable characteristic that doesn’t have to be a roadside block preventing you from owning this wonderful breed. Consistent brushing, a good diet, and proper grooming can keep the shedding under control, leaving you with more time to enjoy the tremendous joys this breed can bring into your life.
Remember, owning a dog is a commitment and involving responsibility. Shedding is a natural process for any dog, and while some breeds may shed more than others, the key is in understanding the breed, preparing yourself and finding solutions that work best for you and your Belgian Malinois.
Who knows, while you were worrying about the shedding, you might have just missed noticing that charming tilt of the head or that adorable wagging tail that’s waiting to become a unique part of your life. Ultimately love, patience, and a reliable vacuum cleaner can make living with a “moderate shedding” Belgian Malinois a joy beyond measure!
So, if you’re pondering whether to bring a Belgian Malinois into your family, don’t let shedding hold you back. Instead, arm yourself with the right tools, knowledge, and mindset to ensure you both can share a happy, healthy life together.
Embark on the journey of furred companionship, and you will find that a little shedding is just a small price to pay for the years of joy, laughter, and unconditional love that a Belgian Malinois brings along.
