Bruce

Belgian Malinois are protective around strangers, but they bond quickly with their families. They have a keen sense of what’s going on and aren’t afraid to defend their owners and territory. For a happy pup, make Malinois your “only child,” and give them plenty of secured space to play. Full-grown, they typically weigh 40-80 pounds and stand 22-26 inches tall.

Belgian Malinoiss are generally okay with older children who know how to handle dogs. The Belgian Malinois should be socialized as a puppy if they're going to live with other dogs or pets, but their nature is to be protective and aggressive toward foreign animals. They’re shy around strangers but get along well with children. They're moderate barkers — they'll alert you when something's up but aren't excessive.

Belgian Malinois need a lot of activity and outdoor exercise each day, such as a long run, walk, hike, or play session in the yard. Malinois thrive most when their minds are stimulated. To keep them engaged, trying playing complex games, sports, and any activity that taps into their natural prey drive. Overall, their exercise needs are very high.

Belgian Malinois have a short brown, grey, or fawn coat, sometimes with black-tipped hair. Their face usually has a black mask and ears, along with a lighter underside. Belgian Malinois shed heavily once or twice a year. Grooming-wise, this breed is low-maintenance.

Belgian Malinoiss are best suited for a home with a yard, though they can adapt to apartment life with enough exercise. Malinois are quite large, so they do better in homes with large yards, rather than apartments or small spaces. They are highly trainable and eager to learn.

Boxers may seem serious, but their looks are deceptive. Behind that long face is a playful, clownish pup that wants to be the family's best friend. They’ll often follow you wherever you may roam, waiting for any opportunity to fetch a ball, gobble up a treat, or give you a big, wet kiss. Full-grown, they typically weigh 65-80 pounds and stand 21-25 inches tall.

Boxers are generally excellent with children of all ages. Boxers love human companionship and get along well with kids and other pets. However, they’re naturally inclined to protect you, so they may be aggressive toward foreign dogs and strangers. They're moderate barkers — they'll alert you when something's up but aren't excessive.

Boxers need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They love long walks every day and space to run around. These dogs also enjoy playing fetch or other games. Overall, their exercise needs are high.

Boxers have a short, shiny coat that’s smooth to the touch. Their most common colors are fawn (light tan, yellow, or light reddish), brindle (light or dark stripes), and red. Most Boxers have a black mask around their noses and jaws. Grooming-wise, this breed is low-maintenance.

Boxers are best suited for apartments and smaller homes. These dogs aren’t fans of extreme weather (either hot or cold), so they should live indoors with you and your family. They are fairly easy to train.