Belgian Malinois vs Saluki
Herding · Large vs Hound · Large
Belgian MalinoisLarge
A confident, smart, hard-working Belgian shepherd — top choice for Navy SEAL military units worldwide.
Weight: 60–80 lbsLifespan: 14–16 years
SalukiLarge
A graceful, dignified, gentle Persian sighthound — one of the world's oldest breeds, depicted on Egyptian tombs.
Weight: 40–65 lbsLifespan: 10–17 years
Quick take
- • Belgian Malinois is the larger breed at 60–80 lbs (males) vs 40–65 lbs for the Saluki.
- • The Belgian Malinois typically lives longer (14–16 years).
- • The Belgian Malinois has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Saluki sheds less.
- • The Belgian Malinois is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Belgian Malinois | Saluki |
|---|---|---|
Group | Herding | Hound |
Size | Large | Large |
Origin | Belgium | Egypt |
Height (male) | 24–26" | 23–28" |
Height (female) | 22–24" | 23–28" |
Weight (male) | 60–80 lbs | 40–65 lbs |
Weight (female) | 40–60 lbs | 40–65 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 14–16 years | 10–17 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) | Low (2/5) |
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) | Very Low (1/5) |
Good with kids | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with other dogs | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Very High (5/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | short | medium |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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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 Saluki
The Saluki is a graceful, dignified, gentle Persian sighthound — one of the world's oldest breeds, depicted on Egyptian tombs. Originally from Egypt, this large hound breed typically weighs 40–65 lbs and lives 10–17 years. Breeders describe them as graceful, dignified, gentle.
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Belgian Malinois health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Elbow dysplasia
- • Eye problems
Saluki health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Heart disease
- • Cancer
- • Anesthesia sensitivity