Belgian Malinois vs Goldendoodle

Herding · Large vs Miscellaneous · Large

Quick take
  • Goldendoodle is the larger breed at 50–90 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 Goldendoodle sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBelgian MalinoisGoldendoodle
Group
HerdingMiscellaneous
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
BelgiumUSA
Height (male)
24–26"20–24"
Height (female)
22–24"20–24"
Weight (male)
60–80 lbs50–90 lbs
Weight (female)
40–60 lbs50–90 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
14–16 years10–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
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)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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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 Goldendoodle

The Goldendoodle is a friendly, smart, family-oriented Golden Retriever × Poodle hybrid — top US designer dog of the 2020s. Originally from USA, this large miscellaneous breed typically weighs 50–90 lbs and lives 10–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, smart, family-oriented.

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Belgian Malinois health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Eye problems

Goldendoodle health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart conditions
  • Eye disorders
  • Allergies