Double-coated fur allows canines to be adaptive to harsh environments. It is composed of the top coat and undercoat. An example of a breed with this coating is the Belgian Malinois.
Their fur is short and very dense. It enables them to accomplish extraordinary tasks. It is the reason why these athletic dogs are a top pick for military missions, watchdog duties, and police work.
Let us learn more about the Belgian Malinois coat types and how to take care of them.
Advantages of Double-Coated Fur:
As mentioned earlier, double-coated fur allows resilience in harsh environments. How does this work? The top coat serves as a protective layer from moisture and dirt.
The undercoat is responsible for regulating body temperature. During cold weather, the double-coating insulates the body. During hot occasions, it helps trap the air close to the skin. Therefore a cooling effect is created.
A double coat safeguards the skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. It is like sunscreen preventing them from getting sunburns. Their fur is a shield from harmful elements like thorns, insect bites, and other woodland threats.
Thanks to this protective layer, the Belgian Malinois has no trouble doing military work. They often assist Navy Seals in war zones or serve as police dogs that respond to emergencies.
Belgian Malinois Fur Coat Types:
One of the distinct features of Belgian Malinois is its fur. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Belgian Malinois coat types vary. Like any other furry mammal, it is their crowning glory.
There are five standard coat colors. It includes fawn, fawn-sable, mahogany, and red and red sable. Aside from these fur coat hues, they also have a black mask pattern on their face. It makes them look like superheroes.
This canine breed is ahead of the pack in terms of uniqueness and beauty. They also have seven non-standard fur colors. These hues include black, cream, cream-sable, brindle, gray, gray-sable, and liver.
Some may ask if the color is not standard, does it mean it is not a pure breed? Not necessarily. Dogs are also prone to genetic problems.
The only way to know their purity is by DNA testing. Owners can also try retrieving and reviewing its pedigree papers.
Belgian Malinois Fur Troubles:
A double-coated dog breed like the Belgian Malinois is a heavy shedder. What does this mean? As seasons or weather shifts, the fur will shed for a period.
Regular weekly brushing is necessary to prevent matting. What is matting? It is the formation of tangles and knots on the fur. When not cared for, it can lead to skin irritations or infections. It might even be a foothold for parasites to attack your pet.
The shedding of fur is also messy. Inside your home, there will be dog hair everywhere. It is a disadvantage for households with family members suffering from asthma or allergies.
Cleaning up will be an extra chore too. You might feel tempted to shave their fur. However, it is not a good idea. It will do more harm, so never consider this as an option.
Belgian Malinois Coat Care:
There are various ways to care for the Belgian Malinois coat. Check out the details below of what you can do.
- Choose the correct Grooming Tool
The Belgian Malinois, due to heavy fur shedding, requires weekly brushing. This action will remove loose fur and prevent matting. Pick a brush with long bristles that can go through the top coat and undercoat.
There are various grooming tools to use. It includes a slicker brush, wide-tooth comb, grooming rake, bristle brush, or a large pin brush.
- Keep them clean by Bathing Regularly
The Belgian Malinois, due to heavy fur shedding, requires weekly brushing. This action will remove loose fur and prevent matting.
Pick a brush with long bristles that can go through the top coat and undercoat. There are various grooming tools to use. It includes a slicker brush, wide-tooth comb, grooming rake, bristle brush, or a large pin brush.
This breed loves living an active lifestyle. Getting dirty is natural, especially in the case of working dogs. Keep their coat clean by bathing them regularly.
These athletic dogs should be washed weekly or for up to six weeks. Choose a mild formula shampoo that is pH-balanced. It is necessary to prevent skin dryness and irritation. Pair it also with brushing. This combination will result in healthy skin and fur.
- Watch their Diet and give Food Supplements
Prevention is better than cure. A Belgian Malinois sheds fur twice a year. But to avoid excessive shedding, proper nutrition is necessary. Aside from providing a healthy diet, food supplements are also helpful.
Allowing your pet to consume fish oil can result in a silkier coat. Shedding due to allergies is also prevented.
They would never have to suffer the inconvenience of itchy and flaky skin. Fish oil is also good for the heart and eases joint pain.
Belgian Malinois Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What is the rarest fur coat color of Belgian Malinois?
The rarest fur coat color is brindle. It has irregular streak patterns that are darker than the base coat.
2. What is the most common color of the Belgian Malinois?
The most common colors are rich fawn, red, and mahogany.
3. What happens after shaving the coat of a Belgian Malinois?
Shaving fur is a health hazard. It can cause sunburn, skin cancer, hyperthermia, hypothermia, and post-clipping alopecia.
4. Who is the most famous Belgian Malinois?
The Belgian Malinois started aiding the military in World War I. However, the most notable canine is Cairo. This elite dog is a part of SEAL Team 6 that took down Osama Bin Laden.
5. What is the difference between a Belgian Malinois and German Sheperd?
The Belgian Malinois and German Sheperd do look alike. However, the Belgian Malinois has a slender build and weighs less. It makes them more agile and flexible in doing rescue missions.
Final Thoughts:
The Belgian Malinois is a double-coated dog that has short and dense fur. They are energetic, intelligent, obedient, and loyal. Despite being heavy shedders, good hygiene, proper diet, and nutritional supplements will keep their coats healthy.
They are hardworking dogs that contribute a lot to society in various forms. Since they are easy to train, this breed is an ideal pet that is a joy to keep at home.
