The Belgian Malinois is a working dog breed and is a herder who prefers to be active and in constant motion. They have a short and straight coat and medium size. They usually weigh around 18-24 kilograms and look very aggressive yet elegant. They have a robust attitude and are very agile and stern.
Belgian Malinois is generally not believed to be reared by family unless they are small pups. But, they are very loving and affectionate which may not show in their looks.
Moreover, their lean stature demands to maintain proper muscle strength and avoid fat. This breed would lose their natural self upon getting obese and therefore, should be following a well-balanced high protein diet.
In order to cater to the nutritional needs of your Belgian Malinois, we have reviewed the top and best quality dog foods for your canine to thrive upon.
American Journey Salmon & Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Wellness Large Breed Complete Health Adult Dry Dog Food
Belgian Malinois Feeding Chart:
How Much I have to Feed my Belgian Malinois
- The lifespan of Belgian Malinois is 12-14 years
- The general age range of Belgian Malinois is as follows
- Puppies ( 12 – 18 Months)
- Adult (From 1.5 to 7 Year)
- Senior (Over 7 Years)
The Belgian Malinois is an active breed and requires high amounts of protein. Since they need to build their muscle strength, they would require a good 22-25% of protein in their diet with 10-15% of fat.
Adult Male Belgian Malinois usually weighs around 60-80 pounds.
Female Belgian Malinois weighs around 40-60 pounds.
Here is a general feeding recommendation as per their weight
| Weight | No. of cups per day (dry food) |
| Up to 15 | ½ to 1 cup |
| 16-25 | 1 cup to 1 ¼ cups |
| 26-50 | 1 ¼ cups to 2 ¼ cups |
| 51 – 75 | 2 ¼ cups to 3 ¼ cups |
| 75 and above | 3 ¼ cups to 4 cups |
Here is the number of meals you can divide the cups into as per their age:
| Age | Meals per Day |
| 2 | 4 |
| 3-6 | 3 |
| 6-12 | 2 |
| 12 + | 1 |
If you are feeding Your Malinois wet food, a 3 oz can be equivalent to ¼ of dry food. Make sure to look for high-quality dog foods for your Malinois and read our reviews below for the best recommendations for your canine.
Best Dog Food For Belgian Malinois
American Journey Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food – Overall Best
Guaranteed Analysis
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 32.0% |
| Crude Fat | 14.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 5.0 % max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 2.5 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 1.0 % min |
| Glucosamine | 600/kg min |
| Caloric Content | 3,740 kcal/kg, 390 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Turkey Meal, Flaxseeds, Blueberries, Carrots, Chicken Meal, Peas, Sweet Potatoes, Salmon Oil, etc.
Product Reviews:
American Journey’s Nutritious Ingredients make sure to fuel your pet’s daily set of activities and exercise with their taste filled nutritious recipes. This makes American Journey our overall best pick amongst all as it features deboned salmon and chicken meals which are rich in protein and amino acids for appropriate muscle development.
The dog food also has a blend of amino acids that your dog needs for the development of strong muscles. It has carbohydrates that give your pooch the energy that it needs to keep going throughout the day.
The dog food also has other significant ingredients like carrots, apples, blueberries, etc that make sure to provide the much-required vitamins and minerals for developing overall health. The food is also abundant in Omega fatty acids which are obtained from Salmon Oil and Flaxseeds. They help in developing and maintaining skin and coat health.
This recipe is grain and gluten-free as well and free of fillers like corn, wheat, and soy that can cause allergies to your dog. This dog food is the best choice for dogs who have digestion and food sensitivities.
Pros
- Grain-free dog food with no fillers or artificial ingredients
- Enriched with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
- Rich in fiber and carbohydrates for fueling your pet
- Contains Omega fatty acids for developing skin and coat health
Cons
- The food is quite dry
- Not meant for dogs with sensitive stomachs
About American Journey
American Journey makes us aware of the fact that any day of your dog can be filled with adventure and makes sure to keep them fuelled enough for their activities.
Their food is always a blend of deboned meat which comes from a reliable source like chicken or fish along with a blend of vitamins and minerals that are obtained from fruits and vegetables.
Their products are manufactured in the USA using domestic and globally sourced ingredients and trusted suppliers.
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food – Popular Pick
Guaranteed Analysis
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 32.0% |
| Crude Fat | 18.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 4.0% max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 2.8 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.3 % min |
| Caloric Content | 3,719 kcal/kg, 370 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Buffalo, Chicken Meal, Lamb Meal, Roasted Bison, Roasted Venison, Sweet Potatoes
Product Reviews
Your four-legged hound deserves a nourishing diet and that is what Taste of the Wild Offers making it our popular choice amongst all. Their grain-free meat-rich formula is abundant in taste and includes peas and sweet potatoes as their source of healthy carbohydrates and fiber. The bison and buffalo protein is a novel form of protein that is not offered by any other dog brand.
Buffalo and bison protein is highly digestible whereas the food also features fruits and vegetables along with dried chicory root which makes for a great probiotic source. The diet also contains essential chelated minerals and amino acids to ensure nutrient absorption for obtaining maximum benefit from the dog food.
The formula is manufactured in the USA and is a family-owned business following all safety protocols to make sure that your dog gets the best nutrition that they deserve.
Pros
- Rich in flavor and nutritious ingredients
- Natural recipe fortified with Omega -3 and Omega -6 fatty acids
- Contains no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives
- Has a proprietary probiotic blend to support gut bacteria
Cons
- Users complain that the food tastes bad
- The food is not grain-free as it claims
About Taste of the Wild
Taste of the Wild is a part of the family-owned Diamond Pet Food Company and has its manufacturing headquarters in Missouri. They use high quality and state of the art facilities to create quality dog food for your pooch. These foods meet the official high-quality nutritional standards.
The grain-free recipes offered by Taste of the Wild include a combination of fruits, vegetables, berries, legumes to meet your pet’s natural cravings of the wild.
Wellness Large Breed Complete Health Adult Deboned Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food– Premium Pick
Guaranteed Analysis
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 26.0% |
| Crude Fat | 12.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 5.0 % max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 2.0 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.75 % min |
| Glucosamine | 750 mg/kg min |
| Caloric Content | 340 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Oatmeal, Chicken Meal, Peas, Ground Barley, Ground Brown Rice, Chicken Fat, etc.
Product Reviews
Wellness offers the taste that your adult boy craves and is our premium pick amongst all dog foods for your Belgian Malinois. It has the right proportion of calcium, phosphorus, and other essential minerals that help your dog in maintaining strong bones and joints.
Wellness offers a unique formula with deboned chicken as the first and foremost ingredient. The right balance of proteins helps keep your dog in shape. The food offers multiple sources of protein that help in optimum nutrient absorption and developing lean muscle which is exactly what a Malinois needs to remain athletic and active.
The food also possesses mixed tocopherols that help prevent diseases like cataracts and eye infections which are common in this dog breed. The moderate fat content helps keep your dog’s weight in check and helps in focusing on the protein-based ingredient of the dog food.
Deboned chicken is the first and foremost ingredient of this premium-quality dog food along with also featuring Yucca Schidigera extract that helps reduce odor in stool.
Pros
- Goodness of deboned chicken with limited fat content
- Promotes healthy joints in adult dogs
- Microbial extract which reduces odor in stool
Cons
- Dogs may not like the taste of the dog food
About Wellness
Wellness is a pioneer dog food brand in dog food that is always looking for new ways for pets to survive. They believe in offering all round nutrition to dogs for their health and wellness.
Their varied team of experts, veterinarians, and animal lovers believe in one motto: to provide your pet a healthy, happy, and longer life.
Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Adult Lamb & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food – Affordable Pick
Guaranteed Analysis
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 20.0% |
| Crude Fat | 14.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 3.5 % max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Caloric Content | 3,635 kcal/kg, 430 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Deboned Lamb, Dried Potatoes, Lentils, Potato Starch, Canola Oil, Sunflower Oil
Product Reviews
The Nutro Grain Free limited ingredient dog food is made using only 10 ingredients which are essential for your dog’s growth and development. It has natural flavors, as well as vitamins and minerals derived from natural sources like fruits and vegetables to provide a complete and balanced diet for adult dogs.
Nutro makes sure to completely avoid ingredients like chicken, beef, corn, wheat, soy, dairy protein, etc that are potential allergens in your dog’s food and do more harm than good. Make sure to give your dog a wholesome meal that not only tastes great but also promises to make them look and feel good. This food is specifically crafted keeping adult nutrition in mind. This diet helps keep them away from allergies and sensitivities, makes digestion easier, and makes sure that your dog receives the natural amount of nutrition he needs.
The recipe promises to offer real taste with premium ingredients and nutrients that enhance your dog’s metabolism. Each bite of this limited ingredient dog food is infused with optimal levels of Omega -6 fatty acids, zinc, B-vitamins, etc that guarantees a shiny and soft coat as well as good cognitive health.
Pros
- Made with only 10 essential ingredients that delivers the right set of nutrients to your dog.
- Promotes optimal digestion for sensitive stomachs
- Non-GMO ingredients used with no flavors or colors
- Specifically tailored ingredients
Cons
- The formula has changed over time which is not worth
- Does not have carbohydrates in appropriate quantities
About Nutro
NUTRO has a long history of manufacturing pet food since 1926 and have been the pioneer of pet nutrition right from the beginning. Their high-quality products and standards along with a lifelong heritage make a significant difference in their quality of food that pets, as well as dog parents, will surely love.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food – Best Protein Rich Dog Food
Guaranteed Analysis
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 27.0% |
| Crude Fat | 16.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 5.0% max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 3.0 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.75 % min |
| Caloric Content | 3,686 kcal/kg, 398 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Oatmeal, Chicken Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, Barley, Brown Rice, etc.
Product Reviews
After understanding the careful nutritional needs of dogs, blue buffalo life protection formula was created for their overall health and well being. Their formulas have real meat as the first ingredient along with a balanced blend of whole grains, garden vegetables, fruits and added LifeSource Bits.
These LifeSource Bits are a perfect blend of necessary nutrients including antioxidant-rich ingredients. This high-quality puppy recipe features chicken and brown rice with deboned chicken as the primary ingredient. This is rich in flavor and taste as well as full of proteins and amino acids.
Blue Buffalo understands that puppy stage is the most important growth stage of dogs and they require proper nutrition during their foundation stages of life. This helps in their proper growth and development and the ingredients are carefully sourced to support every nutritive need of your pet.
The food additionally has calcium and phosphorus which act as essential vitamins for bone and joint development. It helps in developing strong teeth and bones for pups. The kibble is perfectly sized for pups for supporting their smaller jaws and promoting tartar removal. The food also features Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids for skin and coat development.
Pros
- No artificial fillers or ingredients
- Vitamins and chelated minerals along with antioxidants to support immunity
- Has minerals like calcium and phosphorous for supporting bone health
- DHA and ARA for brain development
Cons
- Consumers receive a bad batch at times
- Causes diarrhea in pups
About Blue Buffalo
BLUE Buffalo started off as a company with some inspiration from their large breed pet, the Airedale, Blue. Their objective has always been to be able to feed dogs with the same care and nutrition that one would feed their family members.
Therefore, BLUE Buffalo created the best natural pet specialty food to help all the canines to lead happy and healthy lives.
True Acre Foods Chicken & Vegetable Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food – Best Dry Dog Food
Guaranteed Analysis
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 24.0% |
| Crude Fat | 13.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 5.0% max |
| Moisture | 12.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 2.0 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.2 % min |
| Caloric Content | 3643 kcal/kg or 375 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Canola Meal, Poultry Fat, Cranberries, Soybean Meal, Peas, Carrots, etc.
Product Reviews
The True Acres chicken and vegetable grain-free recipe dry dog food brings some grain-free and allergy-free goodness to your dog’s mealtime. The chicken, vegetables, and all other reliable ingredients in the dog food have been sourced from the best of farms in the U.S.A. The recipe has carrots and peas which make for a great source of carbohydrates and Vitamin A.
The balanced dry dog food is in the form of kibbles which make it a ravishing experience with each bite. Each kibble delivers nutrition and flavor to your dog. The food also has natural fibers to aid digestion and to maintain the gut. Along with fibers, the food is also antioxidant-rich and helps in developing the immune system.
The food has Omega fatty acids which help in brain and vision development and also maintain good skin and coat health. The food does not contain any fillers like grain, corn, soy, wheat, etc. which be allergic to your pet.
Chicken is the first ingredient in this dog food and the diet promises wholesome goodness to your pup in the real sense.
Pros
- Contains Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat maintenance
- No artificial ingredients
- Immense insoluble fibers that aid in digestion
Cons
- Contains soymeal as filler
- Has less percentage of protein compared to other food brands
About True Acre Foods
True Acre believes that canines are just like our family members and deserve to be healthy and happy. One of the best ways to achieve that is through their diet.
Therefore, since your pooch deserves the best, True Acre foods reward pups and dogs with nutritionally rich ingredients and taste they are bound to love. True Acres likes to keep their dog food simple and knows that best please any pooch.
Gentle Giants Canine Nutrition Chicken Dry Dog Food – Best Budget Dry Dog Food
Guaranteed Analysis
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 22.0% |
| Crude Fat | 9.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 4.0 % max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 1.25 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.5 % min |
| Glucosamine | 600 mg /kg min |
| Caloric Content | 3,323 kcal/kg, 358 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Pearled Barley, Dried Sweet Potatoes, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, etc.
Product Reviews
Gentle Giants Canine Nutritional Chicken Dry Dog Food is a nutritionally rich blend of farm-raised chicken, oatmeal, rice, and non-GMO fruits and vegetables like blueberries, cranberries, apples, tomatoes, carrots, etc which are rich in minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants.
The recipe also contains glucosamine and chondroitin for joint development and muscle mobility along with prebiotics and probiotics to improve gut health. It is suitable for all breeds be it small or large breeds and especially a great formula for those who have sensitive stomachs.
The formula also has taurine makes your dog feel energetic. The dog food contains no artificial fillers, ingredients, or preservatives. The overall dog food has moderate amounts of protein for canines who have sensitive digestion.
Pros
- Good for dogs who have a sensitive digestion
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin for joint development and mobility
- Suitable for all dogs of all life stages
- Contains taurine for additional energy
Cons
- Dogs don’t like the taste of the food
- Users claim that the food shows side effects
About Gentle Giants
Gentle Giants offers the best in class high-quality nutrition for canines and are believed to be experts in canine health themselves as experts in canine health. They are confident that their food is bound to make your dog feel younger and happier even at the seniormost ages. They promise that their formulas will make your dog live for longer with improved health and vitality.
Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Lamb & Brown Rice Formula Large Breed Dry Dog Food – Best Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food
Guaranteed Analysis
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 21.0% |
| Crude Fat | 12.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 4.0% max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 1.7 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.30 % min |
| Caloric Content | 3410 kcal/kg, 355 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Lamb Meal, Brewers Rice, Rice Bran, Canola Oil, Brown Rice, etc.
Product Reviews
The Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food uses a single source of protein and meat and the food uses limited carbohydrates to make it a protein-rich diet that is complete and balanced for your dog.
The diet is a perfect blend for dogs with sensitivities and also for pet parents who want to keep their dog’s weight under control. If they want to minimize the number of ingredients their pets are exposed to, then Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diet is the best formula.
There are traditional and unique recipe options available. The best part is that each unique protein source is paired with a perfect carbohydrate-rich ingredient which makes it a great source of flavor as well as health. Carbohydrates in their recipes include brown rice, legumes, potatoes, etc.
Their formulations are also rich in Omega fatty acids which help in developing a shiny skin and coat. They never include any kind of artificial flavors or ingredients in their recipes. This makes it very safe to feed your dog the limited ingredient diet by Natural Balance.
Lamb has a natural set of amino acids that help in developing strong muscles while fiber is obtained from brown rice which aids in digestion. The kibble size is good enough to encourage proper eating and chewing and maintain jaw health. The crunchy texture helps promote strong teeth and gums.
The added essential vitamins and minerals make the dog food worth relishing along with being enriched with nutrition.
Pros
- Good for dogs prone to sensitivities
- Grain and gluten-free formula
- Lamb has essential amino acids
- Formulated specifically for medium to large dog breeds
Cons
- Upsets dog’s stomach at times
- Food not suitable for the picky eaters
About Natural Balance
The natural balance limited ingredient diet carefully chooses and sources ingredients from across the best of places and creates dog foods as per your canine’s specific nutritional needs.
The dog food is perfect for canines with sensitivities or who are prone to allergies as it uses only one protein source and combines with a perfect set of carbohydrates. It is the best formula for pets who want to reduce their exposure to large number of ingredients in dog food.
Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe with Real Chicken Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Dry Dog Food
Guaranteed Analysis
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 37.0% |
| Crude Fat | 20.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 3.0 % max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 2.6 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.3 % min |
| Caloric Content | 4,406 kcal/kg, 518 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Peas, Herring Meal, Menhaden Fish, Chicken Meal, etc.
Product Reviews
Your Belgian Malinois needs real and rich quality dog food, the need for which is fulfilled by Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe which has real chicken as the source of protein and that too, freeze-dried.
The best part about freeze-dried is that it stores nutrition as the food undergoes minimal processing. Cage-free chicken is the primary ingredient in this raw dog food which makes up for an excellent source of protein.
This recipe by Instinct unlocks your dog’s potential to survive. The kibble is of a perfect size for medium-sized dog breeds like the Belgian Malinois. The dog food is properly balanced with wholesome nourishment and has real chicken and vegetables that provide essential vitamins and minerals.
The food is a high animal protein diet that is tasty and promotes digestion, coat health, and skin health as well as supports the overall immune system of your dog. The meal is prepared in the U.S.A. with premium quality ingredients sourced from the best of places around the world promising wholesome nutrition in each bite.
Pros
- Cage-free chicken is the primary ingredient and a real protein source
- Contains 70% of animal ingredients and 30% fruits
- Does not include grains, fillers, corn, soy or potato
- Made in the U.S.A. using premium quality ingredients
Cons
- Users complain that the food causes diarrhea in dogs
- The price of the product has increased in recent months
About Instinct
Instinct believes that pure and real nutrition for dogs comes with raw food and they take the major responsibility of feeding a raw diet to pets. This makes pet parents trust in their formulations that have helped change the lives of many dogs and made pet parents happier. What’s better than being able to change the lives of millions of dogs across the world for good with an enriched and raw diet.
Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Real Lamb & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food
Guaranteed Analysis
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 24.0% |
| Crude Fat | 14.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 4.5 % max |
| Moisture | 11.0% max |
| Caloric Content | 3481 kcal ME/kg or 368 kcal ME/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Deboned Lamb, Peas, Potatoes, Pea Protein, Flaxseeds, etc.
Product Reviews
If you own a pet with food sensitivities and if your dog’s breed is prone to getting obese, then it is best advised to keep their mealtime as simple and limited as possible. Merrick’s limited formula diet delivers exactly what your dog needs and nothing beyond that. Not just that, it is careful about maintaining the taste of the diet that your dog would never stop relishing it.
Merrick takes care of using a single protein source with deboned meat as the primary ingredient. The deboned meat could range from chicken, fish, poultry, etc for you to pick the best protein as per your pet’s choice. These recipes are easy to digest and are made with no fillers or artificial ingredients. These are known to be dangerous and only trigger sensitivities and allergies in pets which can eventually get fatal.
Merrick’s limited ingredient diet uses only 9 key ingredients which is beneficial for them. These also include vitamins and minerals that promise to fortify your canine in every other way.
The recipe is completely grain and gluten-free and has deboned lamb as the first and most significant ingredient. It also promises to deliver essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals along with the benefits of having no harmful ingredients like corn, soy, wheat, dairy, eggs which are known to trigger allergies.
Pros
- No grain, gluten, corn or soy as fillers
- Has only 9 key ingredients for a sensitive stomach
- Crafted and cooked in the finest kitchens in the USA
- Debones lamb is the very first ingredient
Cons
- Users complain the fat content is high in dog food
- Some dogs may not like the taste of the food
About Merrick
Merrick believes that whole foods not only do better but also taste better to your pet. Their handmade recipes are created with care and are known to be better than any other scientific formula for canines. Merrick has been a part of the pet food industry for more than 30 years now.
They take care of manufacturing the food in small batches and monitor every recipe to match what’s mentioned in the ingredient labels. Merrick knows that food is fuel and not, therefore, offers a wide range of protein-rich dry dog foods your pooch can enjoy.
Related Buying Guide
- Best dog foods for goldendoodles
- Best dog food for great danes
- Best dog food for beagles
- Best dog food for labradoodle
- Best dog food for dobermans
Why Quality Food Matters for Your Belgian Malinois?
Sharp features and a busy mind demand a high-quality diet and that is what is essential for a Belgian Malinois. They are very sharp and energetic dogs and such a high level of thinking and activity high-quality food. This breed is not different from other dogs as all of them require high-quality dog food.
The considerable fact is their body structure and energy demands food that is rich in proteins and carbohydrates with adequate amounts of fats. The proteins would help in developing lean muscle which is essential for constant activity and exercise whereas the carbohydrates are essential to fuel up their system and day. Fat is required for skin and coat development and the essential omega fatty acids help in brain and vision development.
In order to meet these demands, high-quality dog food is a must for Belgian Malinois. It has to be dense in proteins. A food composing of empty calories and plenty of fat could cause your dog to become obese and their brains to not function adequately. This can cause excessive weight gain and fatigue.
We have reviewed the best high-quality dog foods for your Belgian Malinois to develop strong muscles and keep going throughout the day.
Does Belgian Malinois Have Special Nutritional Requirements?
Every dog breed has certain special nutritional requirements that need to be fulfilled through a high-quality diet. Belgian Malinois are an active breed and have lean muscles which need constant fuelling through a balanced and complete diet.
Even if your Malinois is not active and leads a sedentary lifestyle, they need to indulge in some form of exercise else they could end up getting destructive. This breed needs to be constantly pushed into doing some or the other form of activity in order to not get restless or destructive.
Active dogs require around 22-25% of protein and 5-15% of fat. They also need to consume complex carbohydrates in order to support their activity levels and digestive systems.
Maintaining a balance between exercise and activity requires good nourishment and a proper diet. Here are some certain factors we need to take care of before feeding a Belgian Malinois.
High-Quality Protein:
A Belgian Malinois is an athletic and active breed and they strive on protein-rich dog food. They possess high muscle density and the thick muscle volume is required to maintain their bone structure and overall body mass.
Protein also helps them feel fuller and the amino acids make for proper building blocks of the body. They help in tissue and muscle development.
Protein Source:
The most important factor in order to maintain the quality of your dog’s food is the source of protein. These are basically sourced from animals and preferably whole meat. Deboned meat is usually tasty and flavorful and should form the first ingredient of each high-quality dog food. Check the ingredient labels for the meat sources.
Usually, these should be coming from the U.S.A, Canada, New Zealand, or Australia where reliable meat is reared. These proteins should also be coming from specific meats like chicken, fish, beef, lamb, turkey and no animal byproducts should be used as fillers.
Fat-Check:
While a certain amount of fat is a must in every dog diet, active and working dog breeds should consider consuming lesser amounts of fat than the usual breeds. Fats act as powerhouses of energy and are generally utilized for brain and vision development.
Certain fish oils and other omega fatty acids also contribute to skin and coat development. DHA helps in developing cognitive function. If your dog starts feeling lethargic too soon, then he may be running down on fats that need to be checked in their diet.
Supplements:
While they are indulged in constant activity, maintaining joint and bone health for smooth and stable mobility is very important. Therefore, for their all-round nutrition and bone and joint health, supplements including Glucosamine and Chondroitin are necessary.
Probiotics help in maintaining gut health and support intestinal bacteria. Fish oils can contribute to Omega fatty acids that help in maintaining skin and coat health.
Vitamins and Minerals
As much as humans require fruits and vegetables for developing overall health and immunity, dogs may have certain restrictions as they cannot consume anything and everything.
However, vitamins and minerals form an essential part of their diet which can be obtained from fruits, vegetables like carrots, spinach, blueberries, cranberries, kelp, tomatoes, etc. They help in regulating their overall system and developing strong immunity.
One of the common Health Issues of Belgian Malinois
The Belgian Malinois is a purebred as well as an active breed that indulges in constant exercise and activity. However, every dog breed has some or the other disorder. This can either be genetic or related to the environment or allergies.
Always get a pet from a reputable breeder who would be well aware of their health problems and pets with genetic conditions should not be bred. The most common diseases a Belgian Malinois could suffer from is retinal atrophy, elbow dysplasia, cataracts, pannus, and hemangiosarcoma.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a common problem in dogs that develops either in later stages of life or is genetic. It happens when the hip joint and the thigh joint socket fail to be placed correctly. The condition is characterized by lameness in one or two legs although the symptoms are not showcased outside the body. Dogs who are very hardworking may eventually also become a victim to hip dysplasia due to bone deterioration.
This condition can generally be detected through X-ray and has no general cure apart from a grave surgery which can cost you a lot.
It is advisable to not breed such dogs with genetic conditions. The best way out to this is to feed them protein-rich food that supports muscle growth and development. They will also support the bone structure to maintain bone health.
Additionally, foods rich in Glucosamine and Chondroitin also help to maintain joint health and mobility and supports older dog breeds. Their balanced and appropriate high-quality diet should be started at a young age to avoid such complications as high-quality dog food forms the building blocks for healthy adult stages.
Retinal Atrophy
Retinal Atrophy is an eye disorder that can gradually cause blindness and loss of photoreceptors from the back of their eye. This condition is easy to detect even before it develops completely and your dog starts showing signs of blindness.
However, dogs have other strong senses to compensate for the blindness and a blind dog can survive quite well even with complete loss of vision.
Obesity
Belgian Malinois dogs who do not exercise regularly are prone to gaining weight and become obese. They need to have high amounts of proteins and fats from their diet but lack of exercise would not leave any resource to burn the nutrition and keep piling up causing obesity.
The balance can be maintained by feeding them high-quality dog food that has a proportionate amount of fat and protein which does not let them gain weight easily. Dog food with animal byproducts is empty fats which can make them obese in the long run. Additionally, proper activity and exercise are also important.
Working dogs require even higher amounts of nutrition and that is possible only with high-quality dog food to not leave your dog underweight and undernourished as well.
Bloat
Bloat is a very common condition in dogs and medium to large-sized dogs are also prone to bloat. Here due to gastric torsion, the stomach distends and twists which needs immediate veterinary attention. If not treated on time and if matters worsen, it can be fatal.
We need to take care of our dog’s feeding habits and timings. Instead of feeding them one whole meal, feed them small meals in proportions 3-4 times a day. Adults can survive on 2 meals a day. Their no. of cups per day can be divided into multiple meals that would not cause overeating at once and they keep getting energy throughout the day for their activities.
Ingredients to Avoid in Your Belgian Malinois Dog Food
Every dog essentially thrives on high-quality dog food. However, there are certain food brands that may use cheap filler ingredients in the name of dog food which does no good in your pet and are a plain source of cheap, empty calories.
A few ingredients that you need to take care of before choosing high-quality dog food is as follows:
Grains, wheat, corn, soy
While grains are good for humans, it has always been known that dogs cannot eat anything and everything that humans do. Wheat, corn, soy, etc are filled with insoluble carbohydrates and starch that are difficult to digest for your dog and may cause metabolic issues.
Simple carbohydrates can be obtained from grains like wheat, barley, oatmeal which have adequate quantities of fiber to support your dog’s digestion.
Fiber Foods
While fiber is essential to maintain your Mal’s digestion, what is more, important is that they have a small intestinal tract and fiber challenges their digestive system. The insoluble carbohydrates do not provide any energy to the dog. They are mere fillers with no specific nutritional benefit.
In fact, fiber also decreases the absorption of other nutrients from their diet which causes deficiencies, loose stools, and flatulence.
Animal by-products and processed meals
Chicken by-products are considered to be OK however, by-products in excess are empty fats with no nutritional value. They are more fat and other unwanted nutrients rather than providing protein that is essential for your canine. Therefore, if you come across a label that has a high content of animal byproduct, you should not consider taking them at all.
Processed meals contain a large number of chemicals, fillers, preservatives, and artificial colors and flavors that cause unwanted reactions in your pet which can get fatal in the long run. These are added in food in order to make it tasty and appealing but have zero nutritional value. Preservatives that are added in order to increase their shelf life are mere chemicals that are harmful to your canine.
Saving up on costs by investing in cheap dog foods that offer ingredients that are mere fillers and cause more harm than good is no way to rear your dog the right way. Always choose a high-quality dog food that is rich in protein, is balanced, and takes care of your dog’s overall health.
Can Belgian Malinois Eat Chocolate?
No, Belgian Malinois can not eat the chocolate, do not try to feed them any kind of chocolates.
Personal Opinion:
The Belgian Malinois is a pure breed and is a medium-sized canine with high activity levels. They have a lean and athletic frame and high amounts of muscle that support their joints and bones. A Belgian Malinois needs to take extreme care of its diet and feeding habits as it is prone to hip dysplasia, cataracts, eye infections, and other allergies and disorders.
While these allergies and disorders may usually happen due to food, it is our responsibility to feed them and buy the best quality dog food for our canine.
According to us, the best dog food for a Belgian Malinois is the American Journey Salmon and Sweet Potato dog food which is rich in proteins and amino acids as well as offers a perfect blend of carbohydrates to fuel your canine. It also offers omega fatty acids for developing shiny skin and coat.
Read our reviews above and choose the best dog food for your fur mate while you tell us which one is his personal favorite through your comments below.
Dr. Aram Baker has been with Santa Clarita Animal Hospital since 1995 and his special interests include behaviour medicine and dermatology. He graduated from the Cleveland Humanities Magnet Program in Reseda, CA and attended California State University at Northridge where he received a Bachelor’s degree in biology. He went on to pursue his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine at the University of California at Davis. He also spent time in the zoological medicine department at U.C. Davis during his Junior and Senior years. He is dedicated to caring for all pets big or small, young or old with compassion, patience, kindness, and love.