The US military and Secret Service's preferred working dog — arguably the most capable dog breed alive for detection, protection, and patrol work
Extraordinary trainability for experienced handlers — the Malinois's drive and intelligence create a uniquely powerful human-dog partnership
Athletic and agile in a medium package — lighter and faster than the German Shepherd with equivalent work capacity
Belgian Sheepdog Club of America maintains active CHIC health testing requirements
Not suitable for first-time owners under any circumstances — this is a working dog that will develop serious behavioral problems without adequate leadership and activity
Drive is constant and high — a Malinois in an under-stimulated environment creates its own destructive "jobs"
The breed's growing popularity has produced poorly bred lines in the US civilian market; finding working-line breeders with health testing requires research
Dog aggression in working lines requires active management