Belgian Malinois vs Bloodhound

Herding · Large vs Hound · Large

Quick take
  • Bloodhound is the larger breed at 90–110 lbs (males) vs 60–80 lbs for the Belgian Malinois.
  • The Belgian Malinois typically lives longer (14–16 years).
  • The Belgian Malinois has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Belgian Malinois is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBelgian MalinoisBloodhound
Group
HerdingHound
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
BelgiumBelgium
Height (male)
24–26"25–27"
Height (female)
22–24"23–25"
Weight (male)
60–80 lbs90–110 lbs
Weight (female)
40–60 lbs80–100 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
14–16 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very High (5/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois is a confident, smart, hard-working Belgian shepherd — top choice for Navy SEAL military units worldwide. Originally from Belgium, this large herding breed typically weighs 60–80 lbs and lives 14–16 years. Breeders describe them as confident, smart, hardworking.

About the Bloodhound

The Bloodhound is a friendly, independent, inquisitive scenthound — the world's premier nose, used in police tracking. Originally from Belgium, this large hound breed typically weighs 90–110 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, independent, inquisitive.

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Belgian Malinois health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Eye problems

Bloodhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye conditions
  • Ear infections