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Belgian Malinois Mixed With Pitbull Guide (A Comprehensive Guide)
The Belgian Malinois Pitbull Mix is a hybrid breed, a unique blend of the agility, intelligence, and energy of the Belgian Malinois and the strength, loyalty, and fearlessness of the American Pitbull Terrier. This blend results in a breed that's intelligent, confident, and full of life.
Both parent breeds have working dog origins, which means this mix has a lot of energy and requires mental and physical stimulation to keep them happy. Dog owners who know this breed love it too.
But be careful and always check local laws. Because of their aggression, Pitbull type dogs have been banned in select locations over the past few years.
Belgian Malinois Pitbull Mix Overview
The Belgian Malinois Pit Mix are sought-after breed, so expect to spend a bit of money. This designer dog is energetic, fun, and active. These active dogs are a lot of fun too.
Below is a complete overview of the Pitbull Malinois mix.
Breed History
This is a relatively new breed, with its origin tracing back to the deliberate crossing of the Belgian Malinois and the American Pitbull Terrier to create a more versatile working and companion dog.
The Belgian Malinois, originating from Belgium, was traditionally a herding dog known for its intelligence and agility. The American Pitbull Terrier has its roots in England and was initially bred for bull-baiting, a popular sport during the 19th century.
In fact, Pitbulls are considered such an aggressive breed because of their history of dog fighting. Initially, the breed was used for dog fights because they were big and powerful.
Physical Characteristics
The mix usually features a muscular and athletic build, a broad chest, and a strong, sturdy frame that hints at its impressive strength. They often have short, dense coats, and their coloration can range from solid colors to combinations of brown, black, white, brindle, or fawn.
This dog typically stands 22 to 26 inches tall, and females are slightly smaller. The average weight is 40-80 pounds too.
Pitbull Belgian Malinois Mix Temperament and Personality
Training and Socialization
This breed is highly trainable due to its intelligence. Their eager-to-please personality makes them responsive to positive reinforcement training techniques.
Early socialization is crucial for this breed, as it helps them become well-adjusted, confident adults. Exposure to different people, pets, environments, and experiences can help curb any potential aggressive or fearful tendencies.
Exercise and Activity Level
This breed is high-energy, requiring at least an hour or two of daily exercise. This can include walks, runs, playtime, and even agility or obedience training.
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for this breed, so puzzle toys, training, and games that make them think are highly beneficial.
Pitbull Belgian Malinois Mix Grooming and Care
Coat Care and Maintenance
With a short, dense coat, this breed requires moderate grooming. Regular brushing, around once or twice a week, should be enough to keep their coat healthy and free of dead hair.
Bathing should be done as necessary, typically every couple of months, unless they get filthy.
Nutrition and Feeding Requirements
A balanced diet is essential for this growing dog, considering its size, energy level, and potential for certain health issues. It's important to adjust the food intake according to their age, size, metabolism, and activity level.
High-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs at different life stages is recommended. Remember, the amount of food will depend on their age, size, metabolism, and activity level.
Health and Wellness
Both parent breeds are generally healthy but can be prone to specific health issues. Some potential health concerns for this mix might include hip and elbow dysplasia, skin allergies, eye conditions, and heart problems.
Regular vet check-ups and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are essential to keep them in good shape.
Belgian Malinois Pitbull Mix Health & Nutrition
Expected Lifespan
The average lifespan of a Belgian Malinois Pitbull Mix is between 10-14 years. This can vary depending on genetics, diet, exercise, and overall health care.
A regular exercise routine is necessary not just for their physical health but for mental stimulation as well. This breed is highly active and intelligent, and they need both physical workouts and mental challenges to stay fit and happy.
Diet & Exercise Needs
A nutritious diet, and regular exercise are critical components of a healthy life for this breed. As they are prone to becoming overweight, a diet of high-quality protein, vegetables, and whole grains is recommended.
At least one hour of exercise per day is recommended for this active breed. Avoid overfeeding and provide regular exercise to prevent obesity and related health issues.
Lastly, ensure your Belgian Malinois Pitbull Mix always has access to fresh, clean water, especially after exercise or in hot weather. Proper hydration is as essential as good nutrition to keep your dog healthy.
Do Belgian Malinois Pitbull Mixes Shed A lot?
This dog is not hypoallergenic, but they are not heavy shedders either. The good thing is this dog only sheds twice per year. This makes grooming a little easier for this hybrid dog breed. It's always best to spend time with a breed before bringing one into your home if allergies are a concern.
The Belgian Malinois sheds quite a bit. So despite the pit bulls genes, this dog still has a long enough coat to shed considerably. These two parent breeds are not the best choice if you have allergies.
An American Pit Bull Terrier sheds moderately despite being single-coated with short hair. This is an excellent purebred dog for owners who want to avoid heavy shedding.
Is A Pitbull Belgian Malinois Mix Considered a Good Family Dog?
The Belgian Malinois Pitbull Mix, with proper socialization and training, can make an excellent family dog. They are known for their loyalty, love for their families, and protective nature.
However, due to their high energy levels and need for mental stimulation, they are better suited to active families who can meet their physical and mental exercise needs.
A well-socialized and trained Belgian Malinois Pitbull Mix can get along well with children and other pets, but as always, interactions should be supervised to ensure safety for all parties involved.
This dog requires lots of hands-on care, extensive training, and high exercise. So sedentary homes are better suited to avoid this dog. But with good training, this can be a great family dog.
Is The Belgian Malinois Pitbull Mix The Right Dog For Me?
Choosing the right breed for your lifestyle and living situation is essential for your and your dog's happiness.
The Belgian Malinois Pitbull Mix is a high-energy, intelligent, and loyal breed that requires time, dedication, and a lot of physical and mental activity. Here are some factors to consider before deciding if this breed is the right fit for you.
Lifestyle
This dog is suitable for active individuals or families that love outdoor activities. They need a lot of physical and mental exercise, so having the time and inclination for long walks, runs, play sessions, and training activities is essential.
Household Size & Free Space
Belgian Malinois Pitbull Mixes are generally good with children and can get along with other pets if properly socialized. However, due to their size and energy level, they might be better suited for families with older children who can play and interact with them safely.
These dogs need space to move around freely. A house with a fenced yard would be ideal. If you live in an apartment, consider whether you'll be able to provide them with enough exercise and stimulation.
Free Time
Training and socializing is important for their mental health and behavior. They are intelligent dogs and need engagement, interaction, and mental challenges. If you are often away from home for long hours, this breed might not be the best fit for you.
Previous Dog Experience
Because of their intelligence and energy, these dogs can be a handful for first-time dog owners. They benefit from a confident handler who understands dog behavior and positive reinforcement training techniques.
