Lagotto Romagnolo vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison

Lagotto Romagnolo vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed ComparisonLagotto Romagnolo is originated from Italy but Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) is originated from Belgium. Lagotto Romagnolo may grow 18 cm / 7 inches shorter than Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois). Lagotto Romagnolo may weigh 18 kg / 39 pounds lesser than Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois). Lagotto Romagnolo may live 3 years more than Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois). Lagotto Romagnolo may have less litter size than Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois). Lagotto Romagnolo requires Moderate maintenance. But Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) requires Low maintenance

History

lagotto romagnolo - historyThe Lagotto Romagnolo dog, known as the Water Dog of Romagna, and falling into the sporting dog category, is a pure breed dog which comes from the Romagna region of Italy.

The dog’s role was that of gun dog and to retrieve water birds. Today he is more used as a truffle hunter in Italy as well as being used for a therapy dog.

In 2015 the Lagotto Romagnolo was accepted by the American Kennel Club into the sporting dog category.

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

lagotto romagnolo puppy - descriptionThe Lagotto Ramagnolo is a medium sized dog where both males and females stand anything between 41 and 48cm and weigh 11 to 16kg.

He is well proportioned and muscled, he has large yellow or brown eyes with a black or brown/pinkish nose, floppy, rounded ears and a tail which is left long these days.

The Lagotto Romagnolo has a waterproof double coat with a woolly texture and which hardly sheds, putting him as being hypoallergenic.

The coat can be in a number of different colors such as cream, grey, white, apricot, brown or tan. The face of the dog has a bit of a beard as well as noticeable bushy eyebrows.

Temperament:

  • Jaunty and feisty
  • Cheerful, lively and alert
  • Intelligent and easily trainable
  • Loving and loyal
  • Undemanding

Because the Lagotto is a sporting breed, he has had to call on all his senses to retrieve water birds. Good eyesight, sharp listening skills and an excellent sense of smell makes him the ideal gun dog but he also makes a loyal family pet.

He makes a good playmate for children and he happily gets on well with other pets in the home. Being an intelligent dog, he is easy to train too.

The sporting past of his has made it that he isn’t a couch-potato type of dog and he will require mental- and physical stimulation. His role as gun dog meant that he was required to retrieve birds in water, and he is an excellent swimmer and will happily plunge into water to join you in a swim.

Have him trained and socialized and you’ll find him tuned in to obeying your commands. Because of his smallish size, the Lagotto can adjust well to life in the city or in the countryside, just so long as he still receives his full quota of exercise.

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

lagotto romagnolo dog - characteristicsMany dog lovers appreciate that the Lagotto Romagnolos is looked upon as an allergy-friendly dog with his non-shedding coat.

Being a medium sized dog, he is manageable too. Add to that excellent characteristics such as being amicable, friendly and loving. Training him some important, basic commands won’t be difficult either and you can add in intelligence to his list of good qualities.

As loving dogs, they are dedicated to their families, getting on well with children in the home as well as with other pets. He is a social dog and just longs to be a treasured member of the family like anybody else.

Count him in with all your activities and you’re going to have a one-in-a-million undemanding and contented canine friend.

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

lagotto romagnolo puppies - health problemsLagotto live roughly 16 years with the best food, exercise and loving environment. Some health issues may well crop up, though unlikely, but it is good to be aware of them.

Hip Dysplasia:

You hear the words ‘Hip dysplasia’ being bandied about a lot in the world of dogs because it is such a common dog ailment. Your dog can’t be cured but there are a range of management options that will ensure your pet remains as comfortable as possible.

It is such a common joint disease where the hips partially dislocate. Without veterinary intervention, it can be debilitating and painful. It is essentially a genetic condition but diet and environmental factors can come into play too.

You don’t want your pet putting on too much weight as this puts extra strain on the joints.

Neuroaxonal Dystrophy:

Your dog has loss of function because of the degeneration of cells or tissues. The illness affects different parts of the brain in dogs. You’ll notice a mild tremor of the head and uncoordinated movements. Your vet will want a history of your pet’s health as well as lab tests.

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

Grooming:

lagotto romagnolo dogs - caringNot everyone agrees with how to take care of the Lagotto’s rough, waterproof coat of thick curls. The coat doesn’t shed much but it can pick up grass and small twigs easily. Unless brushed out at least 2 or 3 times a week, the coat can become matted and unruly. For many the coat needs to be trimmed regularly.

Exercise:

The Lagotto needs plenty of exercise. His hunting and retrieving past has given him a natural urge to retrieve and he loves going after every ball you throw him. He will also love to join you on your daily walks and it gives him the chance to sniff around. With swimming being added in, this dog is your true sporting buddy.

Diet:

Make sure you feed your Lagotto the very best quality food there is to ensure his well-being and longevity. If you're unsure about whether he is getting in all the necessary vitamins and minerals with his food, speak to a dog expert as good food is key to a happy, healthy dog.

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:
Sporting dog
Herding dogs
Origin:
Italy
Belgium
Height Male:
41 - 48 cm
16 - 19 inches
61 - 66 cm
24 - 26 inches
Height Female:
41 - 48 cm
16 - 19 inches
56 - 61 cm
22 - 25 inches
Weight Male:
11 - 16 kg
24 - 36 pounds
29 - 34 kg
63 - 75 pounds
Weight Female:
11 - 16 kg
24 - 36 pounds
25 - 34 kg
55 - 75 pounds
Life Span:
13 - 17 Years
12 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 6
6 - 10
Size:
Medium dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Water Dog of Romagna
Mali,Berger Belge Malinois, Mechelse Berger
Colors Available:
grey, apricot, Cream, white, brown or tan.
Fawn-colored with black tips on the hairs, brown or red
Coat:
Waterproof, curly double coat with a woolly texture
short and dense
Shedding:
Moderate
Constant, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet, 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:
Yes
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Nova Scotia Duck-Tolling Retriever vs Lagotto Romagnolo - Breed Comparison
  2. Lagotto Romagnolo vs East Siberian Laika - Breed Comparison
  3. Lagotto Romagnolo vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  4. Lagotto Romagnolo vs French Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  5. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Flat-Coated Retriever - Breed Comparison
  6. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Finnish Spitz - Breed Comparison
  7. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Ariegeois - Breed Comparison
  8. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Beagador - Breed Comparison
  9. Lagotto Romagnolo vs English Water Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  10. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Field Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  11. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Artois Hound - Breed Comparison
  12. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Curly Coated Retriever - Breed Comparison
  13. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  14. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Formosan Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  15. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Kooikerhondje - Breed Comparison
  16. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  17. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison
  18. Shikoku vs Lagotto Romagnolo - Breed Comparison
  19. Slovakian Hound vs Lagotto Romagnolo - Breed Comparison
  20. Small Munsterlander vs Lagotto Romagnolo - Breed Comparison
  21. Sussex Spaniel vs Lagotto Romagnolo - Breed Comparison
  22. Welsh Springer Spaniel vs Lagotto Romagnolo - Breed Comparison
  23. West Siberian Laika vs Lagotto Romagnolo - Breed Comparison
  24. Wetterhoun vs Lagotto Romagnolo - Breed Comparison
  25. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon vs Lagotto Romagnolo - 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