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Belgian Malinois vs Nortese Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Malinois or Nortese?

Compare the Belgian Malinois and Nortese breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Malinois or a Nortese? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Other names

Malinois

Weight

What is the average weight of Belgian Malinois and Nortese?
80.0 pounds ( 36 kg )
9.5 pounds ( 4 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Belgian Malinois and Nortese
24.5 inches ( 62.2 cm )
9.0 inches ( 22.9 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Belgian Malinoiss or Norteses hypoallergenic, or neither?

No

Unfortunately, the Belgian Malinois is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Yes

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Norteses are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Belgian Malinois and Nortese dogs?
Active
Alert
Confident
Friendly
Hard working
Protective
Stubborn
Watchful

Active
Playful
Energetic
Sensitive
Intelligent
Responsive
Docile
Affectionate
Gentle
Tempered
Sweet
Easygoing

Shedding Level

Do Belgian Malinoiss shed more than Norteses, or which breed sheds more, Belgian Malinoiss or Norteses?

Belgian Malinoiss are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Norteses 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 Malinois or Nortese?

Choose a Belgian Malinois 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.

Avoid Norteses as watchdogs - they're not effective.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Belgian Malinois and Nortese breeds?
Shepherd Dog

Norwich Terrier and Maltese x

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Belgian Malinois and Nortese?
American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®

Date of Birth

When were Belgian Malinois and Nortese breeds first developed?
1800s

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Belgian Malinois and Nortese dogs?
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Belgian Malinois and Nortese?
Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Belgian Malinois and Nortese breeds?
Brown
Fawn
Sable

White
Cream
Fawn
Red
Isabella

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Belgian Malinois and Nortese breeds?

Belgian Malinoiss have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Norteses have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Belgian Malinois and Nortese?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Belgian Malinois and Nortese?
Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Belgian Malinois and Nortese?

12-14 puppies per pregnancy

A Belgian Malinois 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.

3-5 puppies per pregnancy

A Nortese can have a litter of 3-5 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 Malinois and Norteses are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Belgian Malinois and Nortese, which breed is more prone to health problems?

Belgian Malinois and Nortese breeds are generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Belgian Malinois and Nortese breeds?
Usually A Very Healthy Breed

Cataracts
Patent Ductus Arteriosis (PDA)
Dental Problems

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Belgian Malinois and Nortese?
Epilepsy
Pannus
Skin Allergies

Patellar Luxation
Portacaval Shunt
Deafness
Allergies
Hypothyroidism
Portosystemic Shunt
Shaker Dog Syndrome
Atopy

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Belgian Malinois and Nortese breeds?
Hip
MRI
Eye Examination
Allergy Tests

Eye Examinations
BAER Testing
Blood Sugar and Thyroid Tests
Skin Biopsy or Intradermal Tests for specific allergies
Dental and Oral Examinations
X-rays or other radiographic imaging

Energy

How do the energy levels of Belgian Malinoiss and Norteses compare?

Belgian Malinoiss thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

Norteses' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

Social Needs

Belgian Malinois vs Nortese social needs comparison

Belgian Malinois and Nortese 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 Malinois vs Nortese exercise need comparison.

Belgian Malinoiss need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.

Norteses need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Belgian Malinois or Nortese?

Belgian Malinoiss are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Norteses sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Tendency to Bark

Do Belgian Malinoiss or Norteses bark more/less frequently?

The Belgian Malinois is a vocal breed that frequently barks and howls, and may not be suitable for those seeking a quiet companion.

Nortese dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Belgian Malinois vs Nortese?

Roaming urge

Belgian Malinois vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Belgian Malinois or Nortese - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Belgian Malinoiss or Norteses?

High

Belgian Malinoiss 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.

Low

Norteses are low-energy dogs. This breed make a great companion for a relatively inactive person. Nortese dogs require a few short daily walks, and then they're happy snuggling next to you for the rest of the day.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Belgian Malinois or Nortese walk each week?

12 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Belgian Malinois, it's at least 12 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 Nortese, it's at least 5 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Belgian Malinoiss or Norteses require more exercise?

60 minutes

In general most Belgian Malinoiss usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

45 minutes

In general most Norteses usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Belgian Malinoiss or Norteses?

Belgian Malinois and Nortese are breeds of dogs that require an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Belgian Malinois and Nortese dogs?

Weekly

Belgian Malinois 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, Nortese should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Belgian Malinoiss and Norteses?
Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Comb
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Belgian Malinois or Nortese in cups?

3 cups

For an average 60-80 pound (27 - 36 kg) Belgian Malinois feed 3 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 7-12 pound (3 - 5 kg) Nortese 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 Malinois or Nortese?

$2.10 - $2.70 / day

The average cost of a Belgian Malinois is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.

$1.10 - $1.40 / day

The average cost of a Nortese is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Belgian Malinois or Nortese?

$55 - $73 / month

The average per month expenses of a Belgian Malinois 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.

$28 - $42 / month

The average per month expenses of a Nortese is between $28 - $42. This makes an average of $336 - $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 Malinoiss vs Norteses

Belgian Malinois is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Norteses are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

Sensitivity Level

How do Belgian Malinois and Nortese compare in sensitivity?

These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Belgian Malinois and Nortese need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Belgian Malinois vs Nortese?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Belgian Malinois or Nortese?

Belgian Malinoiss are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Norteses make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

Child Friendly

Do Belgian Malinoiss or Norteses have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Belgian Malinois and Nortese 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 Malinois or Nortese?

Cat Friendly

Do Belgian Malinois or Nortese breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Belgian Malinoiss are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Norteses are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Belgian Malinois or Nortese?

Belgian Malinoiss are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Norteses are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

Pet friendly

How do Belgian Malinois or Nortese dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Belgian Malinois or Nortese?

Belgian Malinoiss are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Norteses are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Belgian Malinois and Nortese?

Belgian Malinoiss are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Norteses are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Belgian Malinoiss and Norteses compare?

The Belgian Malinois is highly intelligent and eager to please, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced dog owners due to its easy trainability.

Norteses are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

Common match-ups