Despite their similar names, the Belgian Malinois and Belgian Tervuren are two distinct dog breeds, each with unique traits, appearances, and temperaments. Both share a rich ancestry as Belgian herding dogs, bred for intelligence, agility, and work ethic, but subtle differences make them better suited for different owners and lifestyles.
Choosing between these breeds requires understanding their physical characteristics, behavioral tendencies, and energy levels. The Belgian Malinois is often highly driven, energetic, and focused, excelling in police work, protection, and high-intensity activities.
The Belgian Tervuren, while also intelligent and agile, is generally more reserved, elegant, and suited to homes that appreciate a loyal, affectionate companion with slightly calmer energy. We’ll explore everything you need to know to make an informed choice: appearance, ancestry, temperament, training needs, and lifespan.
By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of the similarities and differences between these breeds, helping you decide which one fits your lifestyle, activity level, and household environment.
7 Things to Consider When Choosing Between Belgian Malinois & Belgian Tervuren Dog Breeds
Size & Build Differences
When it comes to Belgian herding dogs, two stars often steal the spotlight: the Belgian Malinois and the Belgian Tervuren. Both breeds are striking, smart, and athletic—but subtle differences in size and build make each one unique.
Belgian Malinois:
The Belgian Malinois, also known as the Belgian Shepherd, is the agile powerhouse of the duo. These dogs are lean, muscular, and built for speed. They’re like the crossfit athletes of the dog world: compact, strong, and always ready to leap into action.
Height: 22-27 inches
Weight: 65-80 pounds
Belgian Tervuren:
On the flip side, the Belgian Tervuren is slightly more refined in its proportions. Tervuren carries itself with a bit more elegance—like it just stepped out of a doggy fashion magazine. It’s still athletic, but there’s a graceful sweep to its stance that gives off serious “I’m both smart and stylish” vibes.
Heights: 21-26 inches
Weight: 60-75 pounds
Malinois tend to be a touch heavier, thanks to their dense muscle tone. If you imagine carrying one on your shoulders (not recommended unless you’re an Olympic weightlifter), the Malinois would definitely feel more substantial.
Temperament & Personality
Belgian Malinois:
If the Belgian Malinois were a person, it would be that friend who’s always first on the dance floor, the first to volunteer for an adventure, and the first to notice when the neighbor’s cat is up to no good. Malinois are high-energy, incredibly intelligent, and fiercely loyal.
Confident, alert, and sometimes a little intense. They love having a job, whether it’s herding, obedience training, or being the ultimate fetch champion.
In short, Malinois are workaholics of the dog world. If you want a couch potato, keep scrolling—these dogs need a purpose and a human ready to keep up with their turbo energy.
Belgian Tervuren:
The Tervuren, on the other hand, is like the Malinois’ sophisticated cousin who also enjoys a good adventure—but with a little more finesse and calm. These dogs are highly intelligent, sensitive, and highly observant, making them excellent companions for families or those who appreciate a thoughtful, graceful canine.
Loyal, protective, and sometimes a bit reserved with strangers. They form strong bonds with their humans and often show a calmer, elegant demeanor even in high-energy situations.
In short: Tervurens are the thinkers and tacticians of the Belgian family. They combine smarts, loyalty, and beauty in a way that makes you feel proud to walk them down the street.
Training & Intelligence
Belgian Malinois:
The Malinois isn’t just smart—it’s like a four-legged Einstein with turbocharged energy. These dogs live to learn, and training is their favorite game… as long as it keeps them moving.
- Trainability: Extremely high. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Malinois are highly intelligent and energetic breed. This combination can be overwhelming for someone who isn’t prepared to provide them with meaningful activities and mental stimulation, as the dogs have a strong need to stay busy.
Learning Style: Quick and precise. They pick up commands almost instantly, but don’t forget—they also have a streak of independent thinking. If they sense an instruction is a little “meh,” they might creatively interpret it.
Challenge Factor: Moderate to advanced. Because of their intelligence and high energy, Malinois need both mental and physical stimulation. Without it, they can get bored… and creative… in ways you might regret (like redecorating your living room with your shoes).
In short: Malinois are the ultimate training enthusiasts—fast learners, highly focused, and always ready to show off their smarts… and maybe their zoomies.
Belgian Tervuren:
The Tervuren is equally intelligent but approaches training with a slightly calmer, more deliberate style. They’re quick learners, but they’re also thoughtful problem-solvers.
Trainability: Very high. Tervurens respond well to positive reinforcement and consistent training, thriving when they understand the purpose behind a command. PetMD noted they’ve served as guide dogs, search-and-rescue heroes, and even wartime sentries and couriers.
Learning Style: Methodical and attentive. They’re smart enough to figure things out on their own, so patience mixed with clear guidance works best.
Challenge Factor: Moderate. While not as “intense energy” as the Malinois, Tervurens still need daily mental stimulation to stay happy. Puzzle toys, scent games, or advanced obedience classes keep their brains engaged and tails wagging.
In short: Tervurens are the thoughtful geniuses of the Belgian world. They’re quick to learn, loyal to a fault, and will outsmart you with a graceful twinkle in their eyes.
Energy Level
Belgian Malinois:
If energy were a currency, the Malinois would be a billionaire. These dogs are non-stop, high-octane bundles of action.
Daily Activity Needs: Ample exercise needs. We’re talking long walks, runs, play sessions, training drills, and maybe a herding session for good measure. Britannica noted a bored Malinois can invent its own “fun,” which often means chasing, jumping, or testing its furniture’s structural integrity.
Play Style: Fast, intense, and always game for a challenge. Fetch? Absolutely. Agility course? Bring it on. Couch cuddling? Sure… but only after a full sprint around the yard.
Belgian Tervuren:
Tervurens are high-energy too, but their energy comes with a touch of elegance and balance. Think “graceful power” rather than “constant whirlwind.”
Daily Activity Needs: High, but slightly less frenetic. Tervurens love long walks, training games, and mental challenges—but they can also enjoy observing the world and relaxing for a bit in between adventures.
Play Style: Energetic yet calculated. They enjoy running and playing, but they’ll pace themselves, making sure every move is purposeful.
Coat & Grooming
Belgian Malinois:
The Malinois sports a short, straight, dense coat that’s built for action—not fashion shows.
Shedding: Moderate. They shed year-round, with a heavier “blowout” a couple of times a year. Think of it as their subtle way of leaving their mark… everywhere.
Grooming Needs: Minimal. A good weekly brushing is usually enough to keep their coat sleek and remove loose hairs. Baths are only needed occasionally unless they roll in something particularly… aromatic.
In short: Malinois are the sporty, low-maintenance type—easy to keep clean and ready for action.
Belgian Tervuren:
The Tervuren, by contrast, is a long-haired beauty. Their double coat is straight or slightly wavy, dense, and elegant—a showstopper with serious “hair goals.”
Shedding: High. These dogs shed year-round and blow their coats seasonally. Prepare for some stylish fur accents on your furniture, clothes, and possibly your morning coffee.
Grooming Needs: Moderate to high. Weekly brushing is essential to prevent mats and tangles, with extra attention during shedding seasons. Occasional baths keep that luxurious coat shiny and smooth.
In short: Tervurens are the glamour dogs of the Belgian family—they require more attention to keep their coat in top condition, but reward you with a stunning, elegant look.
Protection Power
Belgian Malinois:
If there’s a canine superhero league, the Malinois would be the first recruit. Known for their work with police, military, and security teams worldwide, these dogs take protection seriously.
Instinct: High. Malinois are naturally alert, aware, and quick to notice anything unusual in their environment.
Trainability for Protection Work: Exceptional. They respond brilliantly to structured training and can learn complex protection commands, often excelling in bite work, guarding, and threat assessment.
In short, Malinois are serious guardians in athletic fur—always on alert, ready to spring into action, and fiercely loyal to their family.
Belgian Tervuren:
The Tervuren may look like a graceful showstopper, but don’t let that fool you—they’re also impressive protectors. Their style is a bit different, though: more calculated and observant than high-speed Malinois action.
Instinct: Strong. Tervurens are naturally wary of strangers and protective of their home and loved ones.
Trainability for Protection Work: Highly trainable. They can excel in obedience, guarding, and alerting tasks, but they usually approach situations with careful assessment rather than immediate, explosive action.
In short: Tervurens are the tactical protectors—alert, loyal, and clever, combining elegance with a protective instinct that keeps their family safe.
Health Issues & Lifespan
Belgian Malinois:
Lifespan: Around 11–15 years,
Malinois are generally healthy, robust dogs, built for action and endurance. However, like all breeds, they can be prone to a few specific health concerns:
Common Health Issues:
Hip and elbow dysplasia
Progressive retinal atrophy (eye issues),
Occasional allergies.
In short, Malinois are durable athletes, but they do best with regular health monitoring, a balanced diet, and lots of physical and mental activity to keep their bodies and minds in top shape.
Belgian Tervuren:
Lifespan: 12–16 years
Tervurens are also generally healthy and long-lived, with a few breed-specific health considerations to keep in mind:
Common Health Issues:
Hip and elbow dysplasia,
Progressive retinal atrophy
Epilepsy in some lines
Occasional thyroid
Skin issues
In short: Tervurens are graceful and hardy, often living a bit longer than Malinois when given proper care, making them a wonderful long-term companion.
Conclusion
Choosing between a Belgian Tervuren and a Belgian Malinois depends on several factors, including lifestyle, experience, and how much exercise you can provide. Both the Tervuren and the Malinois are intelligent, loyal, and protective breeds that thrive on consistent socialization, training, and dog sports. If you prefer a protective yet friendly companion and enjoy structured physical activities, the Tervuren could be an excellent match.
On the other hand, the Malinois, with its assertive nature, high energy levels, and strong work drive, may be better suited for highly active owners who can dedicate time throughout the dog’s whole life. Both breeds get along with other dogs when properly socialized and can form deep bonds with their human family members. Choosing the right dog between these two breeds ensures a fulfilling partnership full of loyalty, joy, and activity.
