Belgian Malinois vs English Springer Spaniel

Herding · Large vs Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Belgian Malinois is the larger breed at 60–80 lbs (males) vs 50–55 lbs for the English Springer Spaniel.
  • 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 MalinoisEnglish Springer Spaniel
Group
HerdingSporting
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
BelgiumEngland
Height (male)
24–26"19–21"
Height (female)
22–24"18–20"
Weight (male)
60–80 lbs50–55 lbs
Weight (female)
40–60 lbs40–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
14–16 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
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)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)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
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)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
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 English Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel is a friendly, playful, obedient gundog — bred to spring game from cover for the hunter's net or gun. Originally from England, this medium sporting breed typically weighs 50–55 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, playful, obedient.

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Belgian Malinois health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Eye problems

English Springer Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye conditions
  • Ear infections
  • Phosphofructokinase deficiency