Hey all, I’m considering adopting a well-trained dog for family protection but I’m stuck between two options: Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd. I’ve seen some comparisons online, and it seems like German Shepherds are generally more family-friendly, but I’m also really into how active and agile the Belgian Malinois are. They’re lighter too, so I figure they might move around more easily indoors. Has anyone here had experience with both? Which would you recommend for a family situation? Oh, and one more thing—do insurance quotes vary by breed? I’m looking into dog walker insurance, and I’ve seen some quotes for different breeds but wanted to get some input from you all. Thoughts?
I’ve had a German Shepherd before, and they’re great with families, especially if you have kids. Super protective but also calm around the house. Never had a Belgian Malinois though, but I’ve heard they need a ton of exercise and mental stimulation, otherwise, they get bored and destructive.
@Tatum
That’s what I’ve been hearing too. I’m not sure if I’d be able to give a Belgian enough exercise… might be something to consider.
Both are solid choices for protection, but yeah, Belgian Malinois are a lot more energetic. If you’re looking for something more family-friendly and you don’t have time for hours of daily training, the German Shepherd might be the better pick. About the insurance thing, it can definitely vary by breed, so it’s a good idea to talk to your insurance provider or check online for quotes.
@Brady
Good point. I’ll check with the insurance company about the breed-specific rates. Thanks for the input.
I’ve got a Belgian Malinois, and let me tell you, they are non-stop energy lol. If you’ve got the time and patience for training, they’re fantastic, but if not, you might find them a bit much. They do love to work though, so if you’re into that, it could be a good fit. Insurance-wise, I haven’t had much trouble, but yeah, the quotes can differ depending on the breed.
@Zaden
Sounds like they’re a lot of work but worth it if you can handle the energy level. I’ll definitely factor that in.