Belgian Malinois — breed standard (AKC: size, coat, temperament, type)

Belgian Malinois — breed standard (AKC: size, coat, temperament, type)

Claims

• *[Paraphrased derived summary — non-Open-Access source.]* The AKC gives size at the withers as 24 to 26 inches for males and 22 to 24 inches for females; dogs under 23 or over 27 inches and bitches under 21 or over 25 inches are disqualified.
• *[Paraphrased derived summary — non-Open-Access source.]* The coat is comparatively short, straight, hard and weather-resistant, with a dense undercoat; it is very short on the head, ears and lower legs.
• *[Paraphrased derived summary — non-Open-Access source.]* The ideal colour is a rich fawn to mahogany with black-tipped hairs giving an overlay, and a dark mask and ears.
• *[Paraphrased derived summary — non-Open-Access source.]* Correct temperament is treated as essential to the working character of the breed.
• *[Paraphrased derived summary — non-Open-Access source.]* Hound or semi-prick ears are a disqualification (erect ears are required).
• *[Paraphrased derived summary — non-Open-Access source.]* The skull and muzzle are roughly equal in length.