Australian Terrier vs Belgian Malinois
Breed Compatibility
86% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Terrier: Energetic0.8
Belgian Malinois: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Australian Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Belgian Malinois: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Belgian Malinois: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Terrier5/5
Belgian Malinois3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Terrier3/5
Belgian Malinois3/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Terrier3/5
Belgian Malinois3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Australian Terrier
Diabetes: Blood sugar regulation issues
Luxating Patella: Kneecap dislocation
Legg-Perthes: Hip joint degeneration
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Cruciate Ligament: Knee joint problems
Eye Problems: Various ocular conditions
Belgian Malinois
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Pannus: Eye inflammation condition
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clotting
Pros & Cons Comparison
Australian Terrier
Pros
Compact size
Low grooming needs
Loyal companion
Good watchdog
Adaptable
Intelligent
Cons
Can be stubborn
May bark frequently
Strong prey drive
Can be territorial
Belgian Malinois
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent working ability
Athletic
Loyal
Protective
Cons
High exercise needs
Intense drive requires management
Can be too protective
Needs experienced handler
Australian Terrier Fun Fact
Australian Terriers were the first native Australian breed to be recognized and shown in their homeland!
Belgian Malinois Fun Fact
Belgian Malinois can detect scents 40x better than humans and jump over 8 feet high!
Heritage & Purpose
Australian Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the 1800s, these terriers excelled at controlling rats and snakes in gold mines and sheep stations, proving invaluable to colonial settlers.
Belgian Malinois
Origin:
Developed in Belgium during the 1800s as versatile herding dogs and guardians. Malinois served alongside military and police forces, excelling in protection work.
Special Considerations
Australian Terrier
Regular brushing needed to maintain coat. Requires secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Belgian Malinois
Requires extensive socialization, high-level exercise commitment, and experienced handling. Regular grooming and mental stimulation essential for balanced behavior.
Shedding
InfrequentShedding
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