The Belgian Malinois is a medium-sized, short-haired dog that appears square in its outline. Although they are often confused with the German shepherd by the general public, they are squarer in profile; lighter in bone and more refined in head, with a light, brisk movement. The Malinois is fawn, red or gray in color with black shading on the hair tips. Their tails are usually darker or have a black tip. Their face has a black mask and the ears are mostly black. They may have limited white on their chest and toes.

The Malinois is a very intelligent dog that learns very quickly. The Malinois is a devoted companion and does not make an ideal kennel dog, as they become bored and destructive. They are very affectionate and totally devoted to their families. They are not a breed for those wanting "just a dog." They will protect their home and family, but it is not advisable to encourage their guarding instincts when young, as they can get confused and start guarding you in inappropriate situations. Their natural guarding instincts will kick in, if and when necessary.

From April 11-15, 2012, hundreds of Belgian Malinois from around the country will participate in conformation and performance events at the Purina Event Center at Purina Farms during the club's annual National Specialty. Some of the Belgian Malinois handlers will step into the ring to be evaluated according to the breed standard to see which dog goes home with a Best of Breed title while others will try to earn a first place or high in trial award in performance events such as agility, obedience, rally and herding. The Belgian Malinois is a very versatile breed that excels at many canine activities including diving dog. In fact, the current Purina Incredible Dog Challenge diving dog record holder is a Belgian Malinois named Vhoebe, who landed a jump of 31' 8" during the National Championships of the Purina Incredible Dog Challenge in October 2011. Check the Purina Farms calendar of events for more information.

All of the Shows at Purina Farms, unless noted, are free and open to the public. Visit purinafarms.com to find out more, or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Located on more than 300 acres of rolling hills, Purina Farms offers animal lovers of all ages an opportunity to get up close and personal with barnyard animals and everyday pets such as dogs and cats. Purina Farms features the Visitor's Center where kids can play in the hayloft, milk a cow, take a tractor-drawn wagon ride and watch exciting canine performances of flying disc and diving dog.

Purina Farms is open seasonally mid-March through mid-November but is closed all major holidays. Reservations are required. Call 314-982-3232 or 888-688-PETS (7387).

Recently, the Purina Event Center, a state-of-the-art indoor facility designed to host a variety of canine activities from conformation shows to performance events like obedience, agility and flyball, opened on the Purina Farms property, giving visitors a chance to see some of the most prestigious dog shows in the country year-round.

Photo courtesy of Pup Art Dog Show Photo Services.

"In the Sproutlight"  is a sponsored opportunity. For more information on sponsorship, e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 636-544-7233.

See what's happening at the Farms!  Visit the Purina Farms Sproutlight Page

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