Belgian Malinois

American  

[mal-uhn-wah] / ˌmæl ənˈwɑ /

noun

1. one of a Belgian breed of medium-sized dogs having a short coat, tan to dark brown in color, a black mask, and erect ears, bred originally as a sheepherding dog.

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Etymology

Origin of Belgian Malinois

1965–70; < French malinois pertaining to Malines

Example Sentences

The decision turned on a technicality: Police demanded the surrender of four German shepherds; the disputed dogs are, in fact, one Dutch shepherd and three Belgian Malinois.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 13, 2026

The force said that Police Dog Zeus, a six-year-old Belgian Malinois, had received veterinary treatment and it was hoped he would make a "speedy recovery".

From BBC • Mar. 1, 2025

A friend of mine who lives in upstate New York keeps acquiring Belgian Malinois that she trains for editorial shoots and agility competitions.

From Salon • Apr. 23, 2024

Babs and Bugs were two stray Belgian Malinois picked up Jan. 21 and kenneled together at the Palmdale shelter.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 3, 2023

Sir was a 4½-year-old Belgian Malinois who had been with the Police Department since March 2022, authorities said.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 2, 2023