Because of the unique characteristics of Border Collies and Malinois, mixing the two breeds is not commonly advised. When bred correctly, these dogs are excellent. Otherwise, their dominant characteristics may be problematic.
Since these breeds are rare, there is no standard name for them. However, they can be identified by different names such as:
- Malinois Border Collie Mixes
- Belgian Shepherd Collie Mixes
- Malinois Collie Mixes
Let us explore more about these two distinctive and wonderful dogs. Thus, giving you a better idea whether or not to get one for yourself.
Border Collie Malinois Mix: History
The Border Collie was bred in Scotland. They were initially intended to be a herder dog. Every aspect of its coat color and running speed across the field, among other things, was carefully selected. Sure, there are imperfections in the breed. But through years of meticulous development and selective breeding, it brought them to where they are now. Then come the 20th century, there was a distinction between the breed. They were raised either as for “shows” or for “work”.
The Belgian Malinois was first bred in Belgium. They were bred to become a working and herding dog. The end goal was to produce a hardworking dog with outstanding performance. This dog first appeared in the United States in the early 20th century. Their appearance has led them to be used as a military dog in World War I. In the late 1950s, the breed was reintroduced after a period of rarity. Eventually, its popularity rose almost a decade later.
Malinois Border Collie: Characteristics
Belgian Malinois are intelligent dogs. This intelligence is what made their training easy and enjoyable for the dogs themselves and their owners. They are usually sociable and like to mingle with people and other dogs.
However, you must know as well that they are not the type of dogs that can be left alone for a long period of time. Their dogs typically suffer from separation anxiety. Believe it or not, they just go crazy if they can’t follow them. If you have to leave your home so often for any length of time, then a Malinois might not be your best pick. You may come home and discover that your furniture has been moved around.
As for Border Collie, they require continuous mental and physical stimulation to remain contented. These dogs were bred in a region between Scotland and England. They’re being used to herd sheep. As a matter of fact, this is still a practice that lives on. These pooches never get tired. It’s like they live and breathe to do the commands given to them.
Size & Appearance of Border Collie Malinois Mix
Border Collies are medium-sized, lean dogs. You can quickly notice them with their double coat – that is thick and fluffy. Their ears are either prick or floppy. Their snouts are shorter than those of the Malinois. When weighed, Border Collies range at around 30 to 45 pounds. They also stand around 18 to 25 inches tall.
As with Malinois dogs, they are tall and muscular. Their height typically ranges from 23 to 27 inches. They are pretty heavy dogs too weighing at 56 to 77 pounds. With their built, they create a strong resemblance with German Shepherds.
Whereas a mix or a Border Collie Malinois can obtain the characteristics of the two dogs. They can grow anywhere from 20 to 27 inches. They can also weigh at around 30 to 76 pounds.
Personality
A Border Collie has an energetic, vigilant and hardworking personality. Not to mention, they are among the most intelligent dogs you can get.
This dog learns quickly. This is the same reason why it is often difficult to keep it challenged. Such breed has to be kept busy. Otherwise, it will feel bored. If such happens, there is a tendency for them to show annoying behavior. It could be anything from barking, digging, or chasing cars.
This dog doesn’t just like to lie down. They dwell on doing various activities. After all, they were bred to run and work all day herding sheep. And because Border Collies can be sensitive at times, every gesture that their owners make needs to be monitored.
Regarding Malinois, they are more fitting for someone who has great experience in handling dogs. It’s because they have wide range of temperaments and aggressiveness. Even so, they desire nothing more than to be with their family. This is similar reason why it makes them unsuitable as a kennel pet.
Belgian Malinois are not just capable of herding. Also, they are trained to do a whole number of things like:
- Protect and enforce the law
- Detect drugs
- Bombs and gases
- Search and rescue
- Track
- Obey
- Sled
- Compete in agility
- Provide therapy to disabled, ill, and elderly people
Then again, this can only be possible if they’re in the hands of an experienced owner.
With a mix of both, you must commit and be ready handle the highly energetic Border Collie and challenging nature of a Belgian Malinois.
Border Collie Malinois Mix: Health
The Border Collie Malinois mix is known to be healthy. However, we can’t eliminate the fact that they are prone to certain health concerns. It’s a reason why they have to be checked by a vet on a regular basis.
Lifespan
Based on studies, a Border Collie can live a long life (considering they are given proper care) for more than a decade. As with Belgian Malinois, they are recorded to live somewhere around 12 to 14 years. In fact, the average lifespan of a Border Collie and Belgian Malinois is 13 years. With this information acquired, we can say that a Border Collie Malinois mix can live an average life of 13 years. With good health and proper care, they can definitely live longer than this.
Feeding
A dog’s diet is frequently personalized according to their breed and needs. There are many requirements that must be met. And like it or not, most American dogs are obese. Border Collie Malinois mix is no different. This crossbreed is known for hip and elbow dysplasia.
To prevent this health concern from ever happening, they should be given fish oil, glucosamine, and chondroitin supplements as soon as possible. As a matter of fact, giving them a raw food diet is a good choice.
Issues
As was said earlier, Border Collies and Belgian Malinois are not exempted to health issues. If not taken cared of properly, they are prone to suffer from the following:
Border Collie
- Epilepsy
- Allergies
- Hip Dysplasia
- Collie Eye Anomaly
- Osteochondrosis Dissecans
- PRA or Progressive retinal atrophy
Belgian Malinois
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Epilepsy
- Eye Problems
- Hip Dysplasia
As for a Border Malinois mix, since they have inherited genes and DNA of both parents, they’re prone to hip dysplasia and eye problems. Make sure that you’re giving them proper diet. Don’t forget, bring them to your trusted vet regularly.
Malinois Border Collie: Grooming
It is recommended that Border Collies are brushed with a carder at least once, per week. During their shedding season, the frequency must be doubled. This is important to avoid knots or mats. Of course, to keep them clean for a longer time as well. They should not be bathed more than once a month too.
Keeping a Belgian Malinois’ short coat clean is pretty simple. Truth be told, weekly brushing with a hard-bristle brush is all that’s required. The double coat is more of a two-part coat which gives them warmth and a lighter topcoat. The latter protects them from the cold. However, the same coat makes them uncomfortable in hot weather. Even though they shed twice a year, they should not be kept in areas with excessive heat.
Even if you’re familiar with the breed, no one can ever tell if they’ll be a heavy or light shedder. Regardless, you should prepare to invest in a topnotch vacuum. Doing so will make your life easier and also, keep your floors clean! Give them baths as required, but not so often that you dry out their skin.
Since the mix’s parents are both easy to maintain, grooming a Malinois Border Collie would not be that hard. Brushing at least three times per week is practically the most that you have to do. Baths are not heavily required. But if you want to ensure that they are being groomed by the best, don’t hesitate to bring them to professionals. They have the knowledge, tools and experience to deliver an exceptional service.
Border Collie Malinois Mix: Training & Exercise
Training a Border Collie Malinois mix can pose a bit of a challenge. This is the reality you ought to face if you decide to own such breed. It’s because these dogs naturally want to be the alpha dog. Thus, it is essential on your end to show firmness and toughness, especially when you’re on a training session. This doesn’t indicate that you are being strict. Rather, you are only showing your dog who is in command, the alpha.
When doing the training, remember that every dog responds well to positive reinforcement. So make it sure that you praise your dog when they’ve done good. These dogs love to please. Also, they enjoy physical challenge
Therefore, the more exercise they gets, the simpler the training will be. To train them to be socialized, keep them around with other people and canines. Consider taking your dog to a park or to a dog day care.
Another way to keep them busy is by introducing different exercises. After all, such breed will require a great deal of exercise to keep their energy levels down. Thus, do long walks, hikes or swim with them. Keep in mind, a tired dog is a pleased dog. Yet, a contented dog is even better.
Malinois Border Collie: Taking Care
It doesn’t really matter what type of breed you have. Whether you have a Border Collie, a Belgian Malinois or a Border Collie Malinois mix, ensuring that they are receiving proper care is important.
Keep in mind, it is your job to give your dog a safe haven of its own. One way you can effectively do this is by introducing a dog crate.
Truth is, this is one of the best decisions you can ever have as a dog owner. A dog crate allows you to keep your dog confined and under control. Not only that, it serves its purpose of providing it a place to relax and escape stress. So basically, a dog crate creates a win-win scenario for you and your dog.
Border Collie Malinois Mix: Finding
Finding a dependable dog breeder is simple. This is if you know who are the right people to ask. For example, you may ask your vet for a recommendation or reference. You may also ask your friend where they got their beautiful dog. These are only two of the many methods you may use to locate a reputable breeder.
Price
Now, assuming that you did find one, how much would a Border Collie Malinois mix cost you? Well, first and foremost, Border Collie puppies can range from $600 to $1,200. On the other hand, a Belgian Malinois are rare to find. Therefore, it’s natural that they are more expensive. Honestly, getting one can set you back for $500-$3,000.
With this information right here, you should expect to pay a lot if you want a mix. Unless, you are able to find one at a shelter or rescue.
But as a friendly reminder, only transact with reputable and trusted dog breeders. Yes, it’s true that you may be able save money from puppy mills. What you must remember though is, this often lead to hidden concerns on the pup itself.
Conclusion: Is Border Collie Malinois Mix A Right Pick?
It is probable that a Border Collie Malinois mix will be an extremely active dog. It needs to spend a lot of time outside of the house. The two breeds that contribute to this dog are known for being restless. Also, they’re known for continuous mental stimulation. This dog is not for everyone. Owning and raising one requires experience with a gentle but firm grip.
