Belgian Malinois vs Bullmastiff

Herding · Large vs Working · Large

Quick take
  • Bullmastiff is the larger breed at 110–130 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 Bullmastiff sheds less.
  • The Belgian Malinois is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBelgian MalinoisBullmastiff
Group
HerdingWorking
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
BelgiumEngland
Height (male)
24–26"25–27"
Height (female)
22–24"24–26"
Weight (male)
60–80 lbs110–130 lbs
Weight (female)
40–60 lbs100–120 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
14–16 years7–9 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very High (5/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
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 Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff is an affectionate, loyal, brave gamekeeper's night dog — Mastiff-Bulldog cross bred to subdue poachers. Originally from England, this large working breed typically weighs 110–130 lbs and lives 7–9 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, loyal, brave.

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Belgian Malinois health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Eye problems

Bullmastiff health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Cancer
  • Heart problems