Greenland Dog vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison

Greenland Dog vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed ComparisonGreenland Dog is originated from Greenland but Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) is originated from Belgium. Both Greenland Dog and Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) are having almost same height. Both Greenland Dog and Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) are having almost same weight. Both Greenland Dog and Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) has almost same life span. Greenland Dog may have less litter size than Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois). Greenland Dog requires Moderate maintenance. But Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) requires Low maintenance

History

greenland dog - historyThe Greenland dog is an ancient breed of dog hailing from Greenland. The dog was brought to North American from Siberia hundreds of years ago. In fact the very first dogs arrived in the Americas some 12,000 years ago.

The Greenland Dog isn’t recognized by the AKC but it is recognized by a number of other groups. While the Greenland Dog is valued in Greenland, it isn't particularly well known in other parts of the world.

belgian shepherd dog malinois - historyThe Belgian Malinois is one of 4 Belgian Shepherd varieties. The dogs were developed- and hail from Belguim. The Malinois has a short, fawn colored coat. The American Kennel Club recognizes that the Malinois is a separate breed from the other 3 varieties. It was in 1892 that Professor Reul wrote the first Belgian Shepherd Dog standard, recognizing 3 varieties – dogs with short coats, dogs with long coats and dogs with rough coats.

Today's Malinois goes back to a breeding pair owned by Adrien Janssens. It was in 1885 that he bought a fawn, rough-haired dog, breeding the dog with a short-haired dog named Lise de Laeken. After other breedings, the two dogs were recognized as ancestors of the modern Belgian Shepherd Dogs.

The city of Malines formed a club for the promotion of these fawn short hairs and the name Malinois became synonymous with them. In March 1992, the American Belgian Malinois Club received AKC parent club status.

Description

greenland dog puppy - descriptionThe Greenland Dog is a heavily built dog, and between the males and females, this medium to large sized dog can be 51 – 68cm in height and weigh 30 – 35kg.

He has the typical slanted eyes of the husky-type dogs with a keen, alert expression in them. He has small triangular erect ears. The long, bushy tail of the dog is curled over the back of the dog.

The coat is short to medium length and has 2 layers with the outer layer being fairly coarse. The double coat is thick and shortish but also stand-offish, meaning the hair doesn’t lie flat against the dog’s body. Color of the fur is a mix of cream, beige, white, tan, black, grey or silver.

Temperament:

As a working dog, the Greenland Dog is known for its strength, its boisterous nature and speed. Because its a dog that has worked as a pack, it wants a firm, patient, fair, confident owner to bring out the best in him. Being intelligent, independent and work-orientated, it is perhaps not a great choice for the first-time dog owner who may be out of their realm with the demands of these high-energy dogs.

The dog is independent, but he is quite capable of forming a strong, loving bond with his owner. This is certainly a dog that is never going to thrive if he has to lie around the house all day – he is an active dog who wants a task to do and he is going to need plenty of daily exercise.

They’ve always had active lives pulling sleds or hunting for seals and he craves this busy, active lifestyle. He is the kind of dog that shouldn’t live in the city with a tiny garden unless he has an owner who takes time to walk him and exercise him vigorously. He is a dog that will require training and socialization.

Similarities to German Shepherd

belgian shepherd dog malinois puppy - descriptionThe Malinois is a medium-size Belgian shepherd dog. People sometimes mistake them for the German Shepherd as they are fairly similar to look at. The Malinois however is a smaller, lighter boned dog with naturally upright ears and a black-masked face. He is shorthaired and fawn-colored with black tips on the hairs, although other colors are brown or red too. He is an intelligent and active dog, always having been used for herding-, police- and rescue work.

Reserved or Friendly

You’ll find the Malinois somewhat unpredictable as some are friendly and confident while other can be shy and withdrawn around strangers. This is a dog who loves to be around his human family, but to bring out the best in him, training and socialization classes will be necessary. Well-socialized Malinois are always good with children and other pets, more so if they’ve been raised with them.

Characteristics

greenland dog dog - characteristicsBred as a working dog, the Greenland Dog, native to Greenland is a high energy dog who is boisterous, lively and social. With training and socialization, he becomes an obedient, loyal and devoted pet.

While he is quite capable of being an awesome domesticated pet, he is essentially a working dog, loving having to be part of a very active lifestyle. He may not be the best pet for a first time owner or a home with small children. This is because he isn't your cuddly, lying-around-the-house, playmate kind of pet. He wants a home and owner similar to himself – strong, active, energetic, bold, independent, strong-willed and firm, and when he gets this, he becomes the splendid pet he is so well known for.

belgian shepherd dog malinois dog - characteristicsThe Belgian Malinois makes a wonderful guard dog and he works hard to ensure that his human family, whom he adores, are well protected under his watch. They’re such intelligent dogs too that you may feel inclined to pass over some of your chores to him.

He responds well to training, and to get the best from this breed, start with training and socialization as soon as you bring your puppy home.

Socialization is excellent as it introduces your puppy to different people, animals as well as situations.

He is an adaptable dog and can live in an apartment if he is well exercised. He can be your devoted and loyal friend for a good number of years but you will have to do your part in providing him with the best care possible.

Health Problems

Eye Disease:

greenland dog puppies - health problemsYour Greenland dog can battle with eye problems such as progressive retinal atrophy, hereditary or juvenile cataracts and corneal dystrophy. Eye diseases like this can cause a host of problems for your pet and should receive immediate veterinary attention.

Cataracts in dogs are a common problem affecting the eyes of dogs, with there being different forms and causes.The age at which your pet develops cataracts is important for identifying the type of cataract it is because it will give the vet an idea if the cataracts are an hereditary trait in certain dog breeds.

Hip Dysplasia:

Nearly every dog can battle with hip dysplasia and it can be a serious concern for active canines such as the Greenland dog.

This joint and bone ailment can start manifesting itself as early as 4 months of age with your pet. This dysplasia occurs when the head of the femur doesn't fit into the pelvic joint the way it should. It can lead to pain, arthritis and lameness with your dog.

belgian shepherd dog malinois puppies - health problemsBelgian Malinois are generally healthy dogs. However every dog, regardless of breed, can pick up illnesses, and it is always wise to be aware of some of the diseases your Malinois might face.

Hip Dysplasia

An inherited condition where the thigh bone doesn't fit properly into the hip joint. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

A degenerative eye disorder that can lead to blindness.

Dental problems

Brush his teeth at least 2 or 3 times a week to remove tartar build-up. Too much plague leads to inflamed gums, bad breath, pus inside the mouth and even loss of teeth.

Caring The Pet

Diet:

greenland dog dogs - caringAs a medium- to large-sized dog breed, the Greenland Dog will require a high-quality commercial dog food if that is what you will be feeding him. The top quality brands have the right mix of vitamins and minerals in them for health.

However, it is wise to ensure that such an active dog breed gets his quota of raw meat in too. He has been used to eating fish and seal meat and will require this raw diet too. Sometimes if you cook rice, chicken and vegetables, you can add this into his kibble too.

He must never be without a constant supply of fresh, cool water.

Grooming:

Greenland Dogs need to be groomed at least twice a week to keep the thick coat in tip top condition. He sheds throughout the year.

He will also require you brushing his teeth to get rid of plaque which can cause a host of health issues. You get special toothpaste and toothbrush for dogs. His teeth should be brushed 2 or 3 times a week.

Exercise:

Make sure you give your high-energy Greenland Dog the right dose of exercise. He is intelligent too so he needs walks, games and other activities that contribute towards his physical and mental wellbeing.

He will do well on large properties or farms but won't do well where the space is tiny and where the owners are inactive couch potatoes.

Be careful too that the Greenland Dog isn't exercised immediately after eating as this puts him in danger of developing bloat.

Regular Brushing as he’s a Shedder

belgian shepherd dog malinois dogs - caringBecause the Malinois is a constant shedder, with a couple of heavy shedding periods during the year, you’ll need to be conscientious with his grooming and brush him at least twice a week to get rid of loose hairs and to give his thick coat a glossy, healthy look to it.

Exercise

Because of their high energy, Malinois aren’t recommended for couch-potato type owners. It will be cruel to buy such a dog and to leave him to waste away with boredom and frustration in your back yard. He’ll want lots of rough and tumble, ball games, runs in the park or in the country and long walks.

Feeding

Belgian Shepherd Malinois puppies are vulnerable when they’re tiny, and it would be wise to speak to your vet about superb nutrition to build up a puppy’s immune system.

An excellent way to ensure the health of your growing Malinois is to give him a home prepared meals along with commercially manufactured food recommended by your vet. You can’t just put a bowl of commercially manufactured dog food in front of him day after day month after month.

Apart from what your vet recommends, give him some brown rice, some cooked vegetables and some raw meat. Raw meat will ensure he can fight of skin infections. The age of the dog, emotional state and environmental influences can all play a role in skin diseases with dogs, but by ensuring some raw meat in his diet, the immune system is strengthened and skin disorders are eliminated. Always ensure a steady supply of fresh water.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Herding dogs
Origin:
Greenland
Belgium
Height Male:
51 - 68 cm
20 - 27 inches
61 - 66 cm
24 - 26 inches
Height Female:
51 - 68 cm
20 - 27 inches
56 - 61 cm
22 - 25 inches
Weight Male:
30 - 35 kg
66 - 78 pounds
29 - 34 kg
63 - 75 pounds
Weight Female:
30 - 35 kg
66 - 78 pounds
25 - 34 kg
55 - 75 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 13 Years
12 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 6
6 - 10
Size:
Large dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Greenland
Mali,Berger Belge Malinois, Mechelse Berger
Colors Available:
grey or silver, tan, beige, white, Mix of cream, black
Fawn-colored with black tips on the hairs, brown or red
Coat:
Short to medium length, coarse, stand-offish
short and dense
Shedding:
Moderate, Seasonal
Constant, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Social, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
No
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Samoyed vs Greenland Dog - Breed Comparison
  2. Presa Canario vs Greenland Dog - Breed Comparison
  3. Labrador Husky vs Greenland Dog - Breed Comparison
  4. Mackenzie River Husky vs Greenland Dog - Breed Comparison
  5. Pyredoodle vs Greenland Dog - Breed Comparison
  6. Lurcher vs Greenland Dog - Breed Comparison
  7. Maremma Sheepdog vs Greenland Dog - Breed Comparison
  8. Sarplaninac vs Greenland Dog - Breed Comparison
  9. Himalayan Mastiff vs Greenland Dog - Breed Comparison
  10. Mountain View Cur vs Greenland Dog - Breed Comparison
  11. Native American Indian Dog vs Greenland Dog - Breed Comparison
  12. Greenland Dog vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  13. Greenland Dog vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  14. Greenland Dog vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  15. Greenland Dog vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  16. Greenland Dog vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  17. Greenland Dog vs Alaskan Malamute - Breed Comparison
  18. Greenland Dog vs Bullmastiff - Breed Comparison
  19. Greenland Dog vs Great Pyrenees - Breed Comparison
  20. Greenland Dog vs Boerboel - Breed Comparison
  21. Greenland Dog vs Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  22. Greenland Dog vs Argentine Dogo - Breed Comparison
  23. Greenland Dog vs Giant Schnauzer - Breed Comparison
  24. Greenland Dog vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  25. Greenland Dog vs Belgian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  26. Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  27. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Australian Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  29. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  30. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Austrailian Blue Heeler - Breed Comparison
  31. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  32. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Australian Red Heeler - Breed Comparison
  33. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  34. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Laekenois) - Breed Comparison
  35. Collie vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  36. Dutch Shepherd vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  37. Blue Healer vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  38. English Shepherd vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  39. Catahoula Cur vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  40. Catalan Sheepdog vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  41. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  42. Bergamasco vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  43. Berger Picard vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  44. Appenzell Mountain Dog vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  45. Queensland Heeler vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  46. German Coolie vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  47. Bohemian Shepherd vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  48. Croatian Sheepdog vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  49. Red Heeler vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  50. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds