Do Belgian Malinois Shed a Lot? Care & Grooming Needs

Are you in search of a dog breed that will fit your active lifestyle? The Belgian Malinois is a high-energy dog that is a great option for experienced dog owners with plenty of time to get their pets out for exercise every day. However, if you’ve spent time around similar breeds, like the German Shepherd, you’ve likely noticed that shedding can be out of control! Is it the same for the Belgian Malinois, though?

Do Belgian Malinois Shed?

While the Belgian Malinois does shed, it’s typically considered to be a moderate shedder. It is a double-coated breed that tends to shed consistently and moderately throughout the year. Twice a year, though, you can expect your Belgian Malinois to molt, or “blow their coat,” which means you’ll be sweeping up dog hair tumbleweeds left and right.

The shedding may sound excessive during the molting period, but it can actually be kept in check, although it will take effort on your part. Daily brushing can help remove loose hair before it hits the floor or furniture, and routine baths and blowouts can help reduce the amount of loose hair on your dog. You will still need to sweep and vacuum your home frequently, though, since your dog will still have plenty of hair to shed.

How Often Does a Belgian Malinois Need to be Groomed?

Outside of molting periods, the Belgian Malinois has a relatively low-maintenance coat. Brushing weekly can help keep the coat healthy, shiny, and free of loose hair and dander. Brushing helps to distribute the natural oils on the skin throughout the coat, improving overall coat and skin health.

A bath every 4–8 weeks, or as needed, can help keep your dog’s coat healthy, and during heavy shedding periods, a visit to a professional groomer may help remove more loose undercoat efficiently. Bathing too frequently can disrupt the skin barrier and natural oils, potentially leading to dryness or irritation, though, so stick to a minimal bathing routine, only bathing your dog in between if absolutely necessary.

The Belgian Malinois does have a water-resistant double coat, so they’re unlikely to need a significant amount of maintenance after swimming or getting rained on. Generally, drying them with a microfiber towel is enough, although a cool blow dryer can help remove anything that is caught up in your dog’s coat.

It’s unlikely that your Belgian Malinois will require a major groom or coat shave down. In fact, it’s generally not recommended to shave most double-coated breeds of dogs because their coats provide insulation and protection from environmental extremes, which means your dog’s coat helps regulate body temperature in both hot and cold conditions. By shaving their coat, you are reducing their ability to effectively manage their body temperature.

In Conclusion

The Belgian Malinois is a moderate shedder, but it will blow its coat twice every year. During this time, things can get hairy, but a daily brushing with a slicker brush, and, when needed, an undercoat rake, as well as cleaning in your home, can help reduce the hair floating around.

Featured Image Credit: Sjogger, Shutterstock