Belgian Malinois vs Brittany

Herding · Large vs Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Belgian Malinois is the larger breed at 60–80 lbs (males) vs 30–40 lbs for the Brittany.
  • The Belgian Malinois typically lives longer (14–16 years).
  • The Belgian Malinois is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBelgian MalinoisBrittany
Group
HerdingSporting
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
BelgiumFrance
Height (male)
24–26"17.5–20.5"
Height (female)
22–24"17.5–20.5"
Weight (male)
60–80 lbs30–40 lbs
Weight (female)
40–60 lbs30–40 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
14–16 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
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 Low (1/5)
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)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortmedium
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 Brittany

The Brittany is a bright, fun-loving, upbeat pointer-spaniel hybrid — energetic, athletic gundog and lively companion. Originally from France, this medium sporting breed typically weighs 30–40 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as bright, fun-loving, upbeat.

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Belgian Malinois health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Eye problems

Brittany health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Epilepsy
  • Hypothyroidism