Belgian Laekenois vs Mal-Shi Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Laekenois or Malti Zu?
Compare the Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Laekenois or a Malti Zu? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you
Other names
Laekenois
Malshi, Malt-Tzu, Malti Zu
Weight
What is the average weight of Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi?
60.0 pounds
( 27 kg )
7.0 pounds
( 3 kg )
Height
What is the average height of Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi
21.0 inches
( 53.3 cm )
9.5 inches
( 24.1 cm )
Weight Gain Potential
Which breed eats more: Belgian Laekenois or Mal-Shi?
Belgian Laekenois has average obesity risk, needs balanced diet, daily walks, and weight monitoring.
Mal-Shi has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.
Hypoallergenic
Are Belgian Laekenoiss or Mal-Shis hypoallergenic, or neither?
No
Unfortunately, neither Belgian Laekenois nor Mal-Shi are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.
Temperament
What are the personalities of Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi dogs?
Active Energetic Protective Alert Lively Watchful
Affectionate Independent Loving Playful Social Alert Intelligent Going Quiet
Shedding Level
Do Belgian Laekenoiss shed more than Mal-Shis, or which breed sheds more, Belgian Laekenoiss or Mal-Shis?
Belgian Laekenoiss are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.
Mal-Shis shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.
Watchdog Ability
Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Belgian Laekenois or Mal-Shi?
Choose a Belgian Laekenois if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.
Mal-Shis are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.
Origin
What is the origin of Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi dog breeds?
Belgium
United States
Ancestry
What are the origins of Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi breeds?
shepherd
Shih Tzu, Maltese
Date of Birth
When were Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi breeds first developed?
1800s
1990
Eye Color Possibilites
What are the eye colors of Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi dogs?
Brown
Hazel Amber
Nose Color Possibilites
What are the natural nose colors of Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi?
Black
Coat Length
What is the typical coat length for Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi breeds?
Belgian Laekenoiss have coats that can be either short or medium in length.
Mal-Shis are known for their coat length.
Coat Density
What is the density of the coat of Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi?
Coat Texture
What is the hair texture of Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi?
Wiry
Straight
Litter Size
What is the usual litter size for Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi?
12-14 puppies per pregnancy
A Belgian Laekenois can have a litter of 12-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.
12-15 puppies per pregnancy
A Mal-Shi can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.
Adaptability
Belgian Laekenoiss are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.
Mal-Shis have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.
Health Issues
Between Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi, which breed is more prone to health problems?
Belgian Laekenoiss are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.
While the Mal-Shi breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.
Major Concerns
What are the major health concerns for Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi breeds?
Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
Patellar Luxation Respiratory Problems
Minor Concerns
What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi?
Hypothyroidism
None Known
Occasional Tests
What occasional tests are recommended for Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi breeds?
Thyroid Tests X-Rays
X-Rays Respiratory Tests Full Body Physical Examination especially of the joints
Energy
How do the energy levels of Belgian Laekenoiss and Mal-Shis compare?
Belgian Laekenoiss thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.
Mal-Shis are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.
Social Needs
Belgian Laekenois vs Mal-Shi social needs comparison
Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi have above average social needs compared to other breeds. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.
Exercise Needed
Belgian Laekenois vs Mal-Shi exercise need comparison.
Belgian Laekenoiss require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.
Mal-Shis need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.
Sleeping Need
Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Belgian Laekenois or Mal-Shi?
Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi breeds are known to have moderate energy levels and normal sleep patterns, typically sleeping around 12-14 hours per day.
Drooling Tendency
Which drools more/less, Belgian Laekenois or Mal-Shi?
The Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi breeds are known for their low drooling tendencies, making them a suitable choice for people who don't want to deal with drool marks on their clothing.
Tendency to Bark
Do Belgian Laekenoiss or Mal-Shis bark more/less frequently?
Belgian Laekenois dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.
Mal-Shis bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.
Territorial
Is the Belgian Laekenois or Mal-Shi a better guard dog?
Belgian Laekenois dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.
Mal-Shi dogs have a strong protective nature and territorial instinct. They are highly vigilant and will fiercely defend their home and family.
Mouthiness
Mouthiness Comparison: Belgian Laekenois vs Mal-Shi?
Roaming urge
Belgian Laekenois vs Labrador: Running away tendency?
Prey Drive
Belgian Laekenois or Mal-Shi - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?
Activity Level
Which breed has higher energy, Belgian Laekenoiss or Mal-Shis?
High
Belgian Laekenoiss are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.
Medium
Mal-Shis are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.
Tolerance of being left alone
Walks per Week
How many miles should Belgian Laekenois or Mal-Shi walk each week?
8 miles / week
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Belgian Laekenois, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
5 miles / week
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Mal-Shi, it's at least 5 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
Activity per Day
Do Belgian Laekenoiss or Mal-Shis require more exercise?
60 minutes
Both Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi typically require a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise each day. The exercise can be spread throughout the day and may involve high-energy activities like walking, running, and playing.
Grooming
Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Belgian Laekenoiss or Mal-Shis?
Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi are breeds of dogs that require an average amount of grooming effort.
Brushing Frequency
What is the recommended brushing frequency for Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi dogs?
Weekly
Belgian Laekenois should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot
Daily
Ideally, Mal-Shi should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.
Brushing Tools
What brushing tools are used for Belgian Laekenoiss and Mal-Shis?
Pin Brush Slicker Brush Comb Scissors Nail Clipper
Pin Brush Clipper Nail Clipper
Cups
How much food should be given to Belgian Laekenois or Mal-Shi in cups?
2.5 cups
For an average 55-65 pound (25 - 29 kg) Belgian Laekenois feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.
1 cups
For an average 10-12 pound (5 - 5 kg) Mal-Shi feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.
Daily Cost
Which breed has a higher daily cost, Belgian Laekenois or Mal-Shi?
$2.10 - $2.70 / day
The average cost of a Belgian Laekenois is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.
$1.40 - $1.40 / day
The average cost of a Mal-Shi is somewhere $1.40 - $1.40 per day.
Monthly Cost
Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Belgian Laekenois or Mal-Shi?
$55 - $73 / month
The average per month expenses of a Belgian Laekenois is between $55 - $73. This makes an average of $660 - $876 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.
$35 - $42 / month
The average per month expenses of a Mal-Shi is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.
Intelligence
Comparing Intelligence: Belgian Laekenoiss vs Mal-Shis
Belgian Laekenois is a very intelligent and trainable breed.
Mal-Shi has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.
Sensitivity Level
How do Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi compare in sensitivity?
These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.
Affection Dependance
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Belgian Laekenois vs Mal-Shi?
Apartment Friendly
Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Belgian Laekenois or Mal-Shi?
The Belgian Laekenois is not suitable for apartments and requires a large yard to thrive. Pent-up energy in small spaces can lead to destructive behavior.
Mal-Shis are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.
Child Friendly
Do Belgian Laekenoiss or Mal-Shis have a friendlier temperament towards children?
Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.
Senior-friendly
Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Belgian Laekenois or Mal-Shi?
Cat Friendly
Do Belgian Laekenois or Mal-Shi breeds have a better compatibility with cats?
Belgian Laekenoiss and Mal-Shis are an average cat friendly dog. They do well with cats, even more if raised together from puppyhood.
Dog Friendly
Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Belgian Laekenois or Mal-Shi?
Belgian Laekenoiss are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.
Mal-Shis are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.
Pet friendly
How do Belgian Laekenois or Mal-Shi dogs interact with other pets?
Stranger Friendly
Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Belgian Laekenois or Mal-Shi?
Belgian Laekenoiss are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.
Mal-Shis are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.
Playfulness
Which breed is more playful between Belgian Laekenois and Mal-Shi?
Belgian Laekenoiss are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.
Mal-Shis have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.
Trainability
How do the trainability levels of Belgian Laekenoiss and Mal-Shis compare?
The Belgian Laekenois is highly intelligent and eager to please, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced dog owners due to its easy trainability.
Mal-Shis are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.
