Canine (K9) Breeds

The Belgian Malinois was developed as a variety of the Belgian Shepherd Dog over a century ago. The Belgian Shepherd Dog was created to standardize the traits of local herding dogs in Belgium. The Malinois variety was named after the town of Malines (Malinois), where a club was founded in 1898 to promote and preserve the shorthaired Belgian Shepherd’s intelligence and working character.

This breed was developed for both appearance and utility. Known for its protective nature and high prey drive, the Malinois is tireless, tenacious, and excels in demanding roles. These qualities make it especially suited for Search and Rescue, Police, and Military work.

In 1891, a group in Germany formed the Phylax Society to standardize native dog breeds. Though the society disbanded in 1894, it laid the groundwork for the development of the German Shepherd. Originally bred as a superior sheepdog, the German Shepherd’s intelligence and versatility soon made it ideal for military and law enforcement use.

During World War I, German Shepherds served as messenger dogs, sentries, rescue dogs, and personal guards. Their bravery and loyalty impressed Allied servicemen, many of whom brought the dogs home after the war.

A well-bred German Shepherd is strong, agile, and muscular, with a balanced and harmonious build. Its body is longer than it is tall, with a deep chest and smooth contours. The breed conveys an unmistakable impression of quality and nobility, whether at rest or in motion.

The Dutch Shepherd, originating in the Netherlands, was traditionally a sheepdog and multipurpose farm dog. Medium-sized, muscular, and well-proportioned, the breed is intelligent, alert, and eager to please. It is loyal, obedient, and makes a dependable guardian.

Known for its stamina and typical shepherd temperament, the Dutch Shepherd can be somewhat reserved and benefits from early socialization. Physically and behaviorally, it closely resembles the Belgian Shepherd Dog, with the main differences being coat color and pattern.

The name “Bloodhound” comes from “blooded hound,” referring to its noble or purebred lineage. Long before the Christian era, large scent hounds with exceptional tracking ability were described across Mediterranean cultures. The Bloodhound developed distinct lines early in its history, most notably the St. Hubert hounds established in 7th-century France.

By the 16th century, Bloodhounds were widely used to track people, especially poachers and thieves—in England. Their testimony was so trusted that they were legally allowed to pursue suspects even into homes. The breed’s signature drool helps enhance their remarkable scent-tracking abilities.

Bloodhounds are generally gentle and good with children, but they are not commonly kept as pets due to their need for exercise and their excessive drooling.