Our Toolbox 🧰

Belgian Malinois are military-grade dogs, but they're not bulletproof. 

Even the best bloodlines carry genetic risks.

Here are 10 common health conditions that affect Belgian Malinois.

Weekly Bite

After losing my first Malinois and managing my second's chronic allergies, I've learned that you can't prevent every health issue…

But you can arm yourself with the right questions.

Responsible breeders should have test/exam results or be able to speak to whether these issues have affected their bloodlines.

⚠️ Warning: I’ve included graphics of my dogs and other dogs who have suffered from these conditions for educational purposes.

Feel free to skip this week’s guide if this type of content upsets you. 🫶 

1️⃣ Hemangiosarcoma

What is it? Aggressive cancer of blood vessels, leading to mortality.

How to test? Ask the breeder if it’s occurred in their bloodlines since there’s no proactive test.

2️⃣ Hip & Elbow Dysplasia

What is it? Joint malformation causing pain, bunny hopping, and arthritis.

How to test? Ask the breeder for OFA/PennHIP certifications or final x-rays. ✅ 

3️⃣ Degenerative Myelopathy

What is it? Progressive spinal cord disease leading to hind leg paralysis.

How to test? Ask the breeder for DNA test results. ✅ 

5️⃣ Spongy Degeneration with Cerebellar Ataxia

What is it? Genetic brain disorder causing loss of coordination and balance.

How to test? Ask the breeder for DNA test results. ✅ 

6️⃣ Progressive Retinal Atrophy

What is it? Eye disease causing gradual vision loss and eventual blindness.

How to test? Ask the breeder for ACVO eye exam results. ✅ 

7️⃣ Pannus

What is it? Eye disease causing tissue growth on cornea and potential blindness.

@harvey_shepinois

Replying to @Faith how I found out Harvey has #pannus #belgianmalinois #belgianshepherd #vets #optician #vetvision #malinois

How to test? Ask the breeder for ACVO eye exam results. ✅ 

Neurological Issues

8️⃣ Idiopathic Epilepsy

What is it? Recurring seizures with no identifiable cause.

@alex_thevet

Idiopathic epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions we diagnose in young adult dogs. It refers to recurrent seizures in ... See more

How to test? Ask the breeder if it’s occurred in their bloodlines since there’s no proactive test.

9️⃣ Rage Syndrome

What is it? A form of idiopathic epilepsy that triggers sudden, unprovoked aggression episodes with glazed eyes and no memory afterward.

How to test? Ask the breeder for DNA test results or if it’s occurred in their bloodlines. ✅ 

Environmental Issues

🔟 Allergies

What is it? Chronic itching, skin infections, and digestive issues from environmental or dietary triggers.

How to test? Ask the breeder if it’s occurred in their bloodlines since there’s no proactive test other than an elimination diet trial.

In Summary

This list covers 10 common conditions, but it's not exhaustive.

Many Belgian Malinois are crossed with Belgian Shepherds, Dutch Shepherds, and German Shepherds, which brings additional genetic risks.

The best defense? Ask questions before you buy.

Request health clearances. Ask about bloodline history. A good breeder won't be offended, they'll be impressed you're doing your homework.

Want to dig deeper? The Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association compiled this complete reference guide covering the majority of congenital and heritable disorders across all breeds.

TL:DR: Always ask breeders for health clearances (OFA/PennHIP, DNA tests, ACVO exams) and bloodline history before bringing one home. Early detection and proactive testing can add years to your dog's life.

Tail End

Suggestion Box

Enjoyed this guide? Forward it to a friend and have them signup here.

Interested in sponsoring? Join our partners who’ve achieved >2.3X ROI from just one sponsored guide within 4 days.

Until next Thursday, ✌️

Sam