Height: | 17 – 26 inches |
Weight: | 30 – 80 pounds |
Lifespan: | 10 – 16 years |
Coat Colors: | Fawn, mahogany, brown, tan, white, black, brindle |
Temperament: | Alert, active, protective, affectionate, intelligent, playful |
Suitable for: | Experienced fur parents; active families with older children |
Pitbull mixes are highly sought after because they make excellent family companions, and the Belgian Malinois Pit mix is proof of this. This designer dog has become popular in recent years, and it’s pretty easy to see why.
Because both parent breeds are known for their intimidating characteristics, many people believe that the resulting offspring will be similarly fearsome.
If you’re unfamiliar with a Malinois Pitbull mix, this article will tell you everything you need to know!
This will provide you with all the details about their health, temperament, origin, cost, and other information you will need. Once you’ve finished reading this article, you’ll be able to identify if this is the right pet for you.
What Is a Belgian Malinois Pitbull Mix?
The Belgian Malinois Pitbull mix is a cross between a Pitbull-type dog and the Belgian Malinois. This combination results in a hybrid dog that is large, muscular, and athletic. Belgian Malinois Pitbull mixes are also known for their intense gaze, protectiveness, alertness, and loyalty.
For starters, this mix is a cross between a Malinois and any of the following Pitbull-type dogs: American Pit Bull Terrier, American Bully, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and American Bulldog.
This designer canine is known to be a high-spirited and energetic dog. It also inherits the chunky build of both parents.
Most dog enthusiasts probably think that a Belgian Malinois Pit mix would result in a disaster because both breeds are known for their high levels of energy.
But owners should keep in mind that fur babies socialized from puppyhood tend to be well-rounded, comfortable around children, and friendly with their families and other pets.
Fortunately, this is also the case for the Belgian Malinois Pitbull mix. In fact, if trained properly, this dog can be an excellent working dog as much as it is a great family dog.
Belgian Malinois Pitbull Mix Origin and History
Tracing the history and origin of designer breeds, such as the Belgian Malinois Pitbull mix, is more complicated than it is with purebreds.
We cannot be sure how the first dogs were domesticated, but by studying the histories of the parent breeds, we may get an idea of how they came about.
The Belgian Malinois, better known as Mals, is a shepherd dog bred out of necessity to create a highly protective dog with high pain tolerance and working drive.
On the other hand, Pitbull type dogs were bred in the United Kingdom to be ferocious and powerful dogs used to hold bulls and bears in place for the entertainment of crowds in the 1800s.
A few years later, these dogs branched out to different types developed for different purposes. Some Pitbull-type dog breeds include the American Pit Bull Terrier and American Bully.
Additionally, the American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and American Bulldog are also classified under Pitbulls.
The common thing about all these types is that they are all hardworking — a trait that is also adopted by the Malinois Pit mix.
That’s why you can expect that their combined result would be one of the most intelligent, capable dogs with a sweet and affectionate side.
READ NEXT: American Bulldog vs. Pitbull: An In-Depth Comparison (with FAQ)
Belgian Malinois Pitbull Mix Appearance
The appearance of the Belgian Malinois Pitbull mix can vary quite a bit depending on how much of each parent your dog takes after.
The Belgian Malinois Pitbull mix has a short coat that comes in many shades, such as fawn, mahogany, tan, brindle, pie-bald, and white. Some might have black coats or other colors and patterns because of their Malinois parent.
It may look like they are wearing a mask around their eyes, but this is not true — they just have darker fur in those areas. They have ears that can be floppy or stand straight up depending on how alert they are feeling.
Moreover, they may also take after the muscular build of the Pitbull parent.
If you want a closer look at what a Belgian Malinois Pitbull mix looks like, watch this short clip:
READ NEXT: All Belgian Malinois Colors and Patterns Explained (With Pictures!)
Belgian Malinois Pitbull Mix Size and Weight
Mals and Pits are considered medium to large-sized dogs. A Belgian Malinois mixed with a Pitbull has an average weight range from 30 to 80 pounds, and the average height range is between 16 and 28 inches at the shoulder.
Just like their Mal and Pit parents, some differences between male and female Malinois Pit mixes can be observed. Usually, the males will be a few pounds heavier and a couple of inches taller than their sisters.
It’s impossible to know precisely how big your puppy will get when they grow up, but the size of their parents can be a good place to start. If that’s not possible, your vet will be able to give you an idea of how big they’ll be.
READ NEXT: Pocket Pitbull: Are These Mini-Sized Pitbulls Right for You?
Belgian Malinois Pitbull Mix Temperament and Personality
The Belgian Malinois Pitbull mix is a wonderful dog. They are loyal and clever, and they love to play with children. But before you bring one home, there are some things you should know about them.
These dogs are known for their intelligence and loving temperament, making them excellent guard dogs. They love training and will do almost anything to earn praise from their owners.
For pet owners looking for a great companion, the Belgian Malinois Pitbull mix is a perfect choice. However, training can be difficult without professional help, but you can try and teach them basic commands.
This designer dog makes a great companion for active people who are committed to helping them unleash all their energy through mental challenges and vigorous exercise.
Additionally, a Malinois Pit mix can be fiercely protective, so no one’s going to mess with your family when you’ve got one of these canines around the house.
READ NEXT: Male vs. Female Belgian Malinois: Which Is Better?
Belgian Malinois Pitbull Mix Lifespan and Health Issues
The life expectancy of a Belgian Malinois Pitbull mix is between 10 and 16 years. However, most Pitbull Belgian Malinois mixes face many health issues. Some are inherited, while others are caused by environmental factors.
The Belgian Malinois Pitbull mix is susceptible to the following health conditions:
- Cataracts: Eye problems, such as cataracts, are common in the adult Mals and the Pits. It starts with a dog having clouded vision and worsens over time. So if a Belgian Malinois Pitbull mix develops cataracts, it is unable to see well.
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) or Bloating: Not only is bloating a potentially fatal condition, but it is also expensive to treat. A dog’s stomach can easily expand to a third of its size, causing severe pain and distress. It’s often caused by eating too fast or too much at the same time.
- Elbow and Hip Dysplasia: Elbow and hip dysplasia are severe conditions that occur near the pelvis or the elbows, respectively. A dog with either condition will experience significant pain while moving, and its posture will worsen over time.
- Hyperthyroidism: The American Pit Bull Terrier and Belgian Malinois are also prone to hypothyroidism, a condition that causes the slowing down of bodily functions. Symptoms include unexpected weight gain, lethargy, and skin changes.
When considering a Belgian Malinois Pitbull mix for your family, you should make sure to do plenty of research on the dog’s health problems, longevity, and health needs.
Combining regular trips to the veterinarian with responsible pet care can reduce your pet’s chance of acquiring these diseases.
READ NEXT: How Long Do Pitbulls Live? Average Lifespan & Causes of Death
How to Take Care of Your Pitbull Belgian Malinois Mix
Pitbull Malinois hybrid only needs little to be healthy and happy. They are, after all, a mix of two breeds that do not require too much fuss or attention. However, one thing these dogs need is plenty of physical activity.
You’ll need to give them adequate exercise and mental stimulation, which means your mix will be a great outdoor companion. There are also a couple of things to note when it comes to their grooming needs, training, and diet.
Here’s everything you need to know about caring for your Pitbull Belgian Malinois mix.
Food and Diet
Your furry friend needs to have a proper diet to live a long and happy life.
And as intelligent and energetic as your Pitbull Malinois hybrid is, that is probably going to take some high-quality food with vitamins and nutrients to support its growth.
Their diet should depend on their age and lifestyle. For example, puppies will have more energy than adult dogs. Likewise, working or active dogs need food that is richer in protein.
Essentially, the best way to keep your designer pooch happy is to stick to a fixed feeding schedule every day and make sure it gets a minimum of two servings of dog food per day.
But if you are not sure about what to give to your Pitbull Belgian Malinois mix, it is much better to ask your vet for proper guidance.
READ NEXT: How Much to Feed a Pitbull (Puppy & Adult Feeding Chart)
Cleaning and Grooming
The Pitbull Belgian Malinois mix is an active pup that requires regular grooming. If they have a double-layered coat, you can brush it daily to keep them clean and healthy.
The ideal bathing schedule for Pitbull Malinois mixes varies depending on lifestyle and physical activity, but it’s recommended to bathe them at least twice a month.
However, bathing this pooch too often can dry out its skin, which leads to dandruff, irritation, and itching.
Furthermore, nail trimming once every two months is needed to prevent cracking and splitting that can cause infections. It is also advisable to brush their teeth once a week to avoid dental problems.
As a reminder, fur parents need to ensure that they have the proper tools before grooming their pets.
Training and Exercise
This designer dog craves training and exercise. The most effective way to train a Pitbull Belgian Malinois mix is by implementing positive reinforcement training.
Be sure to reward them with tasty treats when they follow your commands or are well-behaved. You can also reward them with playtime and long walks to get them the exercise that they need.
If you start working with your dog at a young age, you will have an easier time training and socializing your dog to work well with people and other animals.
It is also advisable that your furry friend receives at least 60 to 90 minutes of physical activity every day. Remember that these are not just for your pet but also for your own good.
How Much Does a Belgian Malinois Pit Mix Cost? Puppy Prices and Expenses
Prices for a Belgian Malinois Pit mix puppy can range from $400 to $2,500. The higher the pedigree of their parent breeds and the better the reputation of the breeder, the higher the cost of this pup.
In addition to the purchase price, there are a few essential add-ons required for your pet’s proper care. Those items include a bed, leash, toys, dog crate, etc.
The following is a list of the initial costs of owning a Belgian Malinois Pit Mix puppy:
Type of Expense | Cost |
Food and Treats | $100 – $120 |
Food and Water Bowls | $15 – $35 |
Bed | $50 – $200 |
Crate | $60 – $500 |
Leashes and Collars | $15 – $50 |
Toys | $30 – $50 |
Grooming Essentials | $40 – $180 |
Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications | $50 – $200 |
Initial Vet Visits | $100 – $300 |
Initial Vaccine Shots | $75 – $200 |
Neutering or Spaying | $50 – $500 |
Dog License | $10 – $20 |
Microchip | $40 – $60 |
Miscellaneous Supplies | $15 – $30 |
Total Initial Cost | $650 – $2,445 |
When purchasing pet supplies, it is wise to shop around for bargains and discounts. It will allow you to spend your money on more important things, such as dog treats and health-related treatments.
To save money, you can also consider adopting a Belgian Malinois Pit mix. They typically cost between $100 and $500. Furthermore, there are many ways to find free puppies in your area for adoption.
To help you understand the price range of a Malinois Pit mix, you may want to compare it with the cost of the Belgian Malinois and the Pitbull.
READ NEXT: How Much Does a Belgian Malinois Cost? (2023 Price Guide)
Places to Find Belgian Malinois Pitbull Mix Puppies for Sale and Adoption
Fur parents must keep in mind that rare hybrids like the Belgian Malinois Pit mix can be a little challenging to find. You have to be patient enough in searching for shelters and credible breeders.
But if you have your heart set on owning one, we’ve got you covered. We have rounded up the best places to find your next superb companion.
Here are some of the trustworthy breeders where you can find Belgian Malinois Pit mix puppies for sale:
- Greenfield Puppies – Greenfield Puppies is a great place to start when looking for your new best friend. They have dozens of Belgian Malinois mixes and American Pitbull mixes available on their site.
- Lancaster Puppies – Lancaster Puppies is the perfect site for you if you are looking for Belgian Malinois Pit mixes. Aside from providing details about temperament and breed information, breeders can give prospective owners plenty of health information about the dog.
- American Kennel Club (AKC) Marketplace – You may opt to look for Belgian Malinois or American Pitbull breeders from the AKC Marketplace who produce hybrid puppies. Then contact them to ask if they can refer you to other breeders that offer this mix.
Furthermore, you can continue your puppy hunting by checking out Pitbull breeders and Belgian Malinois breeders. These breeders can direct you to reputable breeders that offer Belgian Malinois Pit mixes.
READ NEXT: 10 Best Belgian Malinois Breeders (2023): Our Top 10 Picks!
To help you avoid online scammers when purchasing a pup, you may check out our puppy buying guide.
A Belgian Malinois Pit mix is a great dog to adopt, as they are highly intelligent and loyal. However, if you want to adopt one of these dogs, you may search for rescues and shelters that specialize in this mix.
Here is a list of some sources where you can find a Belgian Malinois Pit mix for adoption:
- Adopt-a-Pet – Adopt-A-Pet is an online platform where rescues, shelters, and pet owners can put their pets up for adoption. The site offers plenty of adoptable breeds like the Belgian Malinois Pitbull mix, making it the perfect place to find a new pet.
- Petfinder – Founded in 1996, Petfinder is one of the earliest pet adoption websites in the United States. This service allows adoption groups to connect with millions of people and promote animals, including Belgian Malinois Pitbull mixes that need homes.
- PittieLove Rescue – PittieLove Rescue is a shelter dedicated to saving Pit Bulls. Their commitment to providing the best possible care extends past pure Pit, but they also work with other crossbreeds in need. You may be able to find Pitbull Malinois mixes here.
Consequently, you can check out other Pitbull rescues that might offer the Pitbull Malinois mix pooch.
If you’re new to the canine adoption process, our ultimate adoption guide can help you start on the right path.
READ NEXT: 10 Best Pitbull Rescues for Adoption (2023): Our Top 10 Picks!
Pros and Cons of Owning a Pitbull Belgian Malinois Mix
Owning a Malinois Pitbull mix has its advantages and drawbacks. Understanding the pros and cons of owning a hybrid can help you decide whether this mix is a smart choice for your family.
Here are some of the advantages of owning Pitbull Belgian Malinois mixes:
- Excellent trainability: Both parents are known to be highly intelligent breeds. The Belgian Malinois and the American Pitbull are also both very eager to please their fur parents. As a result, they’re easy to train, and they will also pick up commands quickly.
- Improved temperament: While Belgian Malinois dogs have a reputation for being aggressive, they are bred to be loyal to their owners. This trait combines with the natural friendliness of Pitbulls, creating a canine that is both friendly and protective.
- Unique appearance: The combination of medium-sized Pitbulls and larger Belgian Malinois canines results in a pooch with an unusual appearance. It may be appealing to dog lovers wanting something different from the average pet.
- High-energy canines: Both parent breeds are known for their high levels of energy than the average, which is good news for owners who like outdoor activities like hiking or running with their dogs.
When considering adopting a Belgian Malinois Pitbull mix, keep the following disadvantages in mind:
- Can be destructive: Before bringing this hybrid into your home, you should know that it can be destructive if left alone for long periods. When a Malinois Pit mix is bored, it might chew on furniture, clothing, shoes, and other things to amuse itself.
- Genetic problems: According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), designer dogs may inherit genetic components that may lead to health problems. That is why it is important to do thorough research about their parent breeds to be sure.
- Seasonal shedding: The Belgian Malinois Pit mix sheds heavily twice a year, usually in the spring and autumn. Their fur can block drains and clog air filters in households with air-conditioning systems. They may also trigger someone with allergies.
- Prone to separation anxiety: This mixed breed is very outgoing and meant for work. It may need constant stimulation and attention from its owner. So if you’re the type of fur parent that’s always away from home, they may not be the right one for you as they may develop separation anxiety.
Having a Belgian Malinois Pitbull mix as your fur baby can be an exciting experience. But you must evaluate the pros and cons of this designer breed before you commit to bringing one home.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Belgian Malinois Pitbull Mixes Aggressive?
Belgian Malinois Pitbull mix can be aggressive. However, this is not exclusive to this hybrid. The thing is, puppies only need proper training and mental stimulation to avoid bad habits.
Malinois Pitbull mixes are known to be intelligent, strong, and hardworking pooches. Despite common misconceptions, they’re often calm-natured, playful, and loyal.
If you adopt an adult Malinois Pitbull mix from a rescue, it’s more likely that they will be gentle-mannered and well-trained. However, they may need ample time to warm up to new people.
Do Belgian Malinois Pitbull Mixes Shed a Lot?
Due to their Belgian Malinois parent that sheds moderately, a Belgian Malinois Pitbull mix may inherit its dense, waterproof double-coat.
They may shed moderately throughout the year and much more intensely during spring and autumn.
Are Belgian Malinois Pitbull Mixes Hypoallergenic?
Belgian Malinois Pitbull mixes are not hypoallergenic. They shed moderately and can carry allergens when they shed.
If you are allergic to dogs, then this designer dog might worsen or trigger an allergic reaction.
Final Thoughts: Is a Belgian Malinois Pit Mix the Right Dog for You?
Despite the misconception that a Belgian Malinois Pit mix can be aggressive, they are actual sweethearts and very loyal.
Both Pits and Mals are the smartest, most creative dogs out there. That’s why they’re used by police departments all over the country for security purposes, to track down missing children, and even to help solve crimes.
In the police department, they are collectively known as K9 officers. These dogs work tirelessly every day and contribute to maintaining the stability of society.
The K9 Police Challenge Coin is the perfect way to honor the selfless animals that protect us every day, every moment. If you would like to learn more about police challenge coins, please visit GS-JJ.
As a result, you can expect your designer canine to be reliable and ready to take on any challenge you throw at them.
How do you feel about welcoming a Belgian Malinois Pit mix into your family? Let us know in the comments section below!