Commando Dog Ki Seva! (Caring for the Commando Dog!): A Guide to the Belgian Malinois 🐾

The Belgian Malinois is not just a dog; it’s an athlete, a genius, and a security expert all rolled into one! In India, they are often mistaken for the German Shepherd, but the Malinois is a distinct, high-energy breed famous worldwide for its role in police and military service—truly a “Commando Dog”.

If you have welcomed this highly loyal and intelligent dog into your home, you must understand that they have unique needs. Proper care is not just about affection; it’s about providing the work and structure this breed thrives on.

Part 1: Health and High Energy (Sehat Aur Shakti) 🔋

This breed is a powerhouse. You must manage their energy to prevent them from becoming bored and destructive (shaitaani).

1. Exercise is Your Duty

• Minimum Requirement: A Malinois needs at least 1–2 hours of vigorous activity every single day. Simple short walks are not enough!
• Mental Challenge: You must tire out their mind, not just their body. Incorporate agility training, fetch, puzzle toys, and obedience practice into their routine. If they don’t get this, they will find their own work—usually involving chewing your furniture or digging up your garden!
• Secure Area: Always ensure they run and play in a securely fenced area or remain on a strong leash, as they are fast and highly driven.

2. Vet Care and Common Worries

Malinois are generally healthy, but look out for specific issues related to large, active breeds:

• Joint Issues: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia (abnormal joint development) can affect their mobility. Early detection through regular vet check-ups is vital for managing this with proper diet and supplements.
• Vision: Be aware of Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), an eye disorder that can lead to vision loss.
• Allergies: Like many purebreds, they can be prone to skin allergies triggered by environment or food.

3. Prevention is Key (Bachav Zaroori Hai)

• Ensure all core vaccinations (distemper, parvo, rabies) are up-to-date.
• Be religious about flea, tick, and deworming prevention. Given their active outdoor lifestyle, they are more exposed to parasites.

Part 2: Grooming Needs (Sajawat Aur Safai) ✨

Despite having a double coat, their grooming is relatively straightforward.

• Coat Care: They have a dense, short double coat that helps regulate their temperature. They shed moderately throughout the year and will “blow” their coat twice a year (heavy shedding season in spring and fall).
• Brushing: Brush them at least once a week with a slicker brush or a de-shedding tool. Increase this frequency during shedding season to keep the fur from piling up in your home.
• Bathing: They are naturally quite clean and do not need frequent bathing—once every 2–3 months is usually enough. Over-bathing strips essential oils and can worsen skin issues.
• Nails and Ears: Trim their nails every 3-4 weeks (when you hear them click-click on the floor). Clean their ears regularly using a vet-approved cleaner to prevent infections.

Part 3: Diet and Nutrition (Khaana Aur Parhez) 🍗

A working dog needs fuel, not junk!

• High-Quality Protein: Their diet must be rich in high-quality protein (chicken, lamb, fish) to support their dense muscle mass and energy levels.
• Feeding Schedule: Adult Malinois should be fed 2-3 times a day. Puppies need smaller, more frequent meals.
• Portion Control: Monitor their weight closely. Obesity will severely worsen joint issues. Consult your vet to set the right portion size based on their high activity level.
• Hydration: Always keep plenty of fresh, clean water available, especially after their intense exercise sessions or during the Indian summer heat.
• Avoid Toxic Foods: Never feed them chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, or excessive table scraps.

Final Word: Leadership and Love 🤝

More than physical care, a Malinois needs strong, consistent leadership and mental engagement.

• Their intelligence is a gift, but without structure, it can lead to frustration and destructive behaviour.
• Enrol them in obedience classes and expose them to various environments, people, and dogs (socialisation)
  

  Malinois puppies

  from a young age.

By dedicating yourself to their intense exercise, consistent training, and proper nutrition, you will unlock the full potential of your Belgian Malinois—a dedicated, loyal, and incredibly capable companion.