Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix is also known as Shepinois. Breeders created this hybrid by crossing two of the most intelligent and capable working dogs.
This mix inherits the best traits of both the Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd. Shepinois dogs excel at a variety of tasks such as family protection and competitive canine sports. These are a top choice for people who want a highly capable canine partner. But the Shepinois is not officially recognized as a purebred by major kennel clubs like the AKC.
History
The Belgian Malinois originated in Belgium for herding sheep and protecting livestock in the late 19th century. Their talents expanded into law enforcement and military service. To search and rescue specialists and personal protection animals.
They have high energy and desire to work, which also makes them one of the most highly regarded working dogs in the world.
The German Shepherd was created in Germany around the same time period and also for herding sheep. German Shepherds also played roles in police work, service assistance and search and rescue.
So breeders were looking to produce the ultimate working and family dog by crossing these two breeds.
Weight
Males: 65 to 85 pounds.
Females: 50 to 70 pounds.
Height
Males: 24 to 26 inches.
Females: 22 to 24 inches.
Coat Color Variations
This mix inherits a beautiful variety of coat colors such as sable, fawn, black and tan, solid black and dark mahogany.
Unique Physical Features
The Shepinois boasts a powerful, alert head with upright ears and deep chest. These features give them a sharp and intelligent expression. And their nose is strong black and eyes are dark brownish.
Common Health Issues
Hip Dysplasia
The Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix can face hip dysplasia where their hip joint doesn’t fit properly into its socket. With time it can lead to arthritis.
Elbow Dysplasia
This mix can also face elbow dysplasia which is similar to hip dysplasia. Elbow dysplasia can cause pain in the front legs of them.
Bloat (Gastric Dilatation Volvulus)
Bloat is a serious life threatening condition for belgian malinois german shepherd mix. In this condition the stomach twists and fills with gas. So it’s important to feed them smaller meals and avoid vigorous exercise immediately after eating.
Lifespan
Most Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mixes can live between 10 to 14 years with proper care. It is a solid lifespan for a large breed.
Temperament
The Shepinois is one of the most intelligent mixed breeds. They are highly trainable because they inherit the problem solving skills of the German Shepherd and the laser sharp focus of the Belgian Malinois.
But without proper mental stimulation their intelligence can lead to stubborn behaviour. They protect their loved ones if they sense a threat. These dogs require a lifestyle that matches their drive and enthusiasm.
Shepinois dogs are better suited for experienced dog owners who understand working breeds. Because first time dog owners may find the Shepinois overwhelming.
The Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix can be great with children if raised alongside them. But keep young children away as they are aggressive sometimes. And their behavior around other pets varies. They can coexist peacefully with other dogs but keep cats and rabbits away.
Training And Exercise
The Shepinois responds best to positive reinforcement training. Because desired behaviors are rewarded with praise, treats and play. Harsh correction methods can damage their trust and confidence because both parent breeds are sensitive and intelligent.
So short engaging training sessions focused on rewards and consistency helps build a strong working relationship between the dog and its owner.
You have to reward immediately when the dog gets it right to reinforce the desired action. Also, exposing your puppy to a variety of people, animals, environments and sounds during the first few months. It will help to reduce the risk of fear based reactivity and aggression later in life.
Otherwise they will be defensive toward strangers and unfamiliar animals. You can start their basic training when they are 2 months old. Can also take help from a professional trainer if you are a first time Shepinois owner.
This hybrid breed needs at least 90 mins of daily physical activity because they have high energy levels. It can be long walks, running sessions and focused playtime. Without sufficient exercise shepinois can become bored and destructive.
Don’t let them roam in a backyard as it will not be enough for them. Because they need movement that includes mental engagement. Such as agility courses, follow commands, using their nose to follow scent, fetch, tug of war and puzzle toys.
Grooming
Coat Care
The Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix has a short to medium double coat which sheds moderately throughout the year and heavily during seasonal changes. Brush them 2 to 3 times a week with a slicker brush.
It will help to keep their coat healthy and reduce loose hair around the house. And during seasonal shedding peaks daily brushing will be needed.
Bathing & Nail Trimming
Normally bathing should be done once a month. But if your dog gets especially dirty then you can go for more than a month. Use a gentle dog shampoo that supports skin and coat health.
And avoid over bathing them. Because it will strip the natural oils from their skin and lead to dryness.
And nail trimming should be performed after every 3 weeks. Or if their nails touch the ground when standing then it is also a time for trim. As long nails can cause discomfort in active dogs.
Dental Care And Ear Cleaning
You can brush their teeth 2 to 3 times a week with a dog toothpaste. And to support their teeth you can add dental chews. And ear cleaning should be done once every 2 weeks with an ear cleaner.
Diet
The Shepinois is a high energy dog. So it requires 2.5 to 4 cups of high quality dog food per day but split into two meals. As it will help support their activity level and maintain lean muscle mass.
Also note how active they are, weight, age and metabolism. As working ones need more calories than less active ones.
Best Types Of Food For The Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix
| Type | Pros |
| Kibble | Affordable. |
| Raw Diet | Cleaner teeth, healthy skin and coat. |
| Homemade | Good for allergies or sensitivities. |
Price
The price of a Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix (Shepinois) is from $500 to $2,000+. Adopting from a rescue or shelter can cost around $150 to $400.
