Belgian Malinois grooming: brushing, bathing and shedding
A practical grooming routine for the Belgian Malinois: coat care, baths, nails and ears.
The short double coat is easy for most of the year. A weekly session with a rubber curry brush or undercoat rake keeps it tidy. Twice a year, usually spring and autumn, the undercoat comes out in clumps for two to three weeks, and daily brushing during that time saves a lot of vacuuming.
Baths are rarely needed, perhaps a few times a year or after something smelly. Working dogs on rough ground may wear their nails down, but pet dogs on grass and carpet need trimming every three to four weeks. Check the upright ears weekly and look over the paws after training on gravel or turf.
Belgian Malinois grooming in numbers
This is an illustrative schedule based on our editorial grooming score, not a breed-specific care protocol. Coat condition, skin problems and professional advice may call for a different routine.
| Task | Planning example |
|---|---|
| Brushing | Once a week |
| Bathing | Every 2 to 3 months, or when dirty |
| Shedding | Moderate, year round |
| Nail trim | Every 3 to 4 weeks |
| Ear check | Weekly |
| Teeth | Daily brushing; introduce gently and ask your vet if the mouth seems painful |
Coat
A short, straight, weather-resistant outer coat over a dense undercoat, slightly longer around the neck and on the back of the thighs.
Grooming needs
Shedding
Drooling