For those seeking a companion to match their active lifestyle, a Belgian Malinois Husky mix is an excellent choice. Also known as the Belusky, this mix is the perfect blend of the Belgian Malinois and the Siberian Husky.
Although some may be skeptical of owning mixed breed dogs, the Malinois Siberian Husky mix can easily change your mind. Perfect as family, guard, and hunting companions, the Belusky dog has it all.
If this mix has piqued your interest, you have come to the right place! This article has everything you need to know about the Belgian Malinois and Siberian Husky mix.
Breed Overview
| Height: | 23 – 25 inches |
| Weight: | 45 – 65 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 8 – 10 years |
| Coat Colors: | Brown, black, white, grey |
| Temperament: | Extremely active, intelligent, curious |
| Suitable for: | Families with children; hunting, guarding, and herding |
What Is a Belgian Malinois Husky Mix?
The Belgian Malinois Husky mix is a hybrid of the Belgian Malinois and the Siberian Husky. This designer breed is incredibly active, energetic, and curious, making it suitable as a family pet, a watchdog, and even a shepherd dog!
These qualities most likely stem from its Belgian Malinois and Siberian Husky parents — both of which are known to be loyal companions that are highly protective and intelligent dog breeds.
As with other mixed breeds, the Belusky is not officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). However, it is recognized by the Dog Registry of America, Inc (DRA) and the International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR).
Belgian Malinois Husky Mix Origin and History
To properly understand what makes this Husky Belgian Malinois mix unique from other dogs, it is important to start with some information on the two dogs that were brought together to create this hybrid.
The Belgian Malinois is a breed of Belgian sheepdogs originating from Malinois, its Belgian city namesake. These dogs are known for being energetic herding dogs that are fiercely loyal to their families.
On the other hand, Siberian Huskies are sled dogs originating from Russia. Although there are over 30 different types of Huskies, Siberian Huskies are very popular due to their affectionate but protective natures.
Unlike other hybrid dogs, the Belusky may not have been a result of accidental breeding. The first Belgian Malinois Husky mix ever recorded can be traced to a 2009 article saying this new breed was ‘the first of its kind.’
Early Belusky dog breeders stated that combining a Belgian Malinois parent’s high energy levels with a Siberian Husky parent’s great stamina creates a hybrid that makes an excellent breed of guard dogs.
Belgian Malinois Husky Mix Appearance
Typically, a Belgian Malinois Siberian Husky mixed puppy will inherit characteristics from both of its parent breeds. This means that each pup will differ from one another depending on the traits it inherits.
Generally speaking, Beluskies sport dense, coarse double coats in various shades of brown, black, white, or grey, with black or white markings usually found on their ears, muzzle, paws, and fluffy, brush-like tail.
Of course, it is possible for them to inherit one of all the possible Belgian Malinois colors and patterns.
However, their coat colors and markings may still differ depending on the parent breeds. For example, if the Husky parent is an agouti Husky, the mix may exhibit the same signature white markings.
If you are lucky enough to breed together a black Belgian Malinois and a brown Husky, then the Belusky mix is likely to inherit the uncommon traits of these rare dogs.
Beluskies’ coats are made of rough and harsh hair that is water resistant. This is a feature likely inherited from their Siberian Husky parent, even more so if it is a wooly Husky.
Moreover, a Belusky’s head can either be thick and round like a Siberian Husky or flat like a Belgian Malinois. It also has dazzling, almond-shaped eyes that may be either brown or blue, similar to the Husky’s eye colors.
Another great feature of this Siberian Husky mix is its scissor bite without pink gums. This simply means that the breed’s upper and lower incisors are aligned well, especially when the mouth is closed.
If you want to see what a Belgian Malinois Siberian Husky mix puppy might look like, check out this adorable video:
Belgian Malinois Husky Mix Size and Weight
As an adult, the Belusky is a medium-sized canine with a compact body that stands around 23 to 25 inches. A typical Belusky will also weigh anywhere between 45 and 65 pounds.
These numbers are not that far off from the typical heights and weights of its Belgian Malinois parent and Siberian Husky parent. However, their sizes may still differ depending on their gender and genetic traits.
A Belgian Malinois Husky is considered fully grown once within the age of 12 to 18 months. Once it reaches adulthood, its size and weight likely remain constant, especially if its diet and nutrition are maintained.
Belgian Malinois Husky Mix Temperament and Personality
Most Belusky dog owners will agree that the personality of this mix is a perfect combination of a Belgian Malinois and a Siberian Husky.
The Belusky’s parent breeds are considered working dogs. They are typically bred and raised to work as herding dogs, guard dogs, and even as good family companions.
In fact, it has been said that the Secret Service employs Belgian Malinois to patrol the White House when needed, so it comes as no surprise that the Belgian Malinois Siberian Husky mix is also highly intelligent and energetic.
Furthermore, the Belusky is a very loyal companion due to its protective instincts inherited from its Belgian Malinois parent. It is not afraid to show dominance and stubbornness to protect its owners.
However, this protective nature may also mean that it may show aggression or destructive behaviors if its territory is threatened.
Beluskies are prone to exhibiting same-sex aggression, which means that they may have trouble socializing with other dogs of similar gender.
This may pose a problem if the owner has other pets or multiple dogs. Fortunately, this trait can be avoided with proper training and socialization beginning from a young age.
Despite this, Beluskies also inherit the jolly and affectionate temperaments of their Husky parents. Once comfortable, they can be social creatures that can make friends with other pets and animals.
The ideal blend of these traits makes the Husky Belgian Malinois mix a great companion, especially for active families with energetic, physically-stimulating lifestyles.
Belgian Malinois Husky Mix Lifespan and Health Issues
Compared to most breeds, the Belgian Malinois Siberian Husky mix has a relatively shorter average lifespan of around 8 to 10 years.
A hybrid dog such as the Belusky has the genetic composition of two breeds, which means that it might inherit some genetic health problems from its parent breeds.
Here are some common health issues a Malinois Siberian Husky mix may face:
- Skin Problems: Siberian Huskies are prone to zinc deficiencies, which cause hair loss, itching, and lesions. This is likely to be passed on to their Belusky offspring. Because of their thick coats, dermal complications and skin allergies are more difficult to detect. If untreated, these may lead to further infection.
- Hip Dysplasia: Canine hip dysplasia refers to the misalignment of a dog’s hip joint and hip socket, which may lead to severe pain and joint deformity. This issue is common among tall breeds, just like the Belgian Malinois Siberian Husky mix.
- Cataracts: Dog cataracts occur when a dog’s eye lens gradually clouds until it eventually loses the ability to see. Both Belgian Malinois and Siberian Husky are prone to this disease. Since this condition is largely inherited, the Belusky is at greater risk of developing this condition.
As with other breeds, owners of this particular mix should be aware of the potential health emergencies to be better equipped for it in the future.
Regular visits to a quality veterinarian can go a long way in combating the development of these health issues and keeping your dog in good shape.
How to Take Care of Your Belusky
Although the Belusky is a good dog for active, high-energy owners and families, it might not be the best breed for dog owners looking for a low-maintenance pet.
Proper care is a must to keep a Belgian Malinois Husky mix in peak condition. To help you, here are some general maintenance tips about diet, grooming, and exercise for your mixed pup.
Food and Diet
As previously mentioned, Belgian Malinois Husky mixes are highly active and energetic working dogs. Thus, their daily diet requires a lot of protein, carbohydrates, and fats.
A dog of this size and energy level requires a lot of calories, especially as a puppy. For reference, an adult Malinois Husky mix should eat around 1 ½ to 3 cups of quality dog food spread over two meals a day.
Much like other animals, this mixed breed should not be given cooked bones because it may damage its gastrointestinal tract. For a Malinois Husky mix, raw or manufactured bones are the way to go.
Cleaning and Grooming
Given that this mixed breed inherits the harsh hair and double coats of Siberian Huskies, grooming your Malinois Husky mix requires attention.
Regular brushing is vital in maintaining a shiny, healthy coat. Brushing once or twice a week is great for getting rid of loose fur and also for checking up on any possible skin conditions that might develop.
For this mixed breed, baths should only be given on a monthly occasion or just when needed. Scheduled ear checking and nail trimming are also advised.
Teeth cleaning and dental care, on the other hand, should be done regularly to prevent any periodontal diseases.
Training and Exercise
The versatility of a Belgian Malinois Husky mix is unmatched. However, proper training must be done to reap the benefits of this hardworking dog.
It is important to begin training Beluskies while they are still young. A Belusky puppy will be more curious and accepting of training, especially with the use of positive reinforcement.
As for exercise, a Belusky needs to be physically and mentally stimulated in order to thrive. Regular exercise for at least two hours a day is the minimum for this mixed pup, which is why it may be considered high maintenance.
How Much Does a Belusky Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses
The Belusky mixed breed is quite pricey, ranging anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000. However, the expenses don’t stop there. Essentials such as food, a bed, vet visits, and the like can put a strain on your wallet.
Take a look at the table below to get a better idea of the initial costs of owning a medium-sized pup like this Belgian Malinois Husky mix:
| Type of Expense | Cost |
| Food and Treats | $70 – $110 |
| Bowls | $10 – $30 |
| Toys | $30 – $60 |
| Beds | $40 – $200 |
| Collars and Leashes | $15 – $50 |
| Crates and Carriers | $50 – $370 |
| Grooming Essentials | $50 – $160 |
| Initial Vet Visits | $100 – $500 |
| Initial Vaccine Shots | $50 – $300 |
| Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications | $40 – $300 |
| Neutering or Spaying | $50 – $500 |
| Microchipping | $40 – $60 |
| Dog License | $10 – $20 |
| Other Essentials | $20 – $50 |
| Total Initial Cost | $505 – $2,710 |
If these prices seem quite steep, there are always ways to cut back on expenses. For example, choosing dry food over wet food is more cost-effective, as kibble is cheaper and more convenient to feed.
There are also some services not listed above that you may require in the future, such as proper training with professional dog trainers.
Places to Find Belusky Puppies for Sale and Adoption
If you’re looking to be a certified Belusky owner, buying or adopting a Belusky puppy will be easier. There are plenty of reputable breeders and rescues offering these pups.
Take a look at some of these websites where you can find a Belgian Malinois Husky mix pup for sale:
- PuppyFinder – Puppyfinder is an online adoption website that boasts a secure and easy way to find puppies for sale in an area near you. The website’s search engine allows users to search by breed. With over 1,000 breeds on their roster, hybrid dogs such as the Belgian Malinois Husky are surely given a chance in the spotlight.
- Greenfield Puppies – Greenfield Puppies helps dog breeders and puppy sellers advertise dogs of all sizes, ages, and breeds across various states. Their website lists both purebred and mixed-breed puppies for sale, including the Belgian Malinois Husky mix.
- Pet Classifieds – Pet Classifieds is another online classified advertising site for buying and selling pets where you can search based on different categories, such as breeds and locations. The ads on this site entail all relevant information on each designer pup, including the breeder’s contact numbers and location.
Although it may be more difficult to find a Belusky, plenty of people would choose to adopt rather than shop — and for a good reason. Not only do you save your wallet, but you also help a dog in need.
If you can’t find a Belusky in your local shelter, here are some rescues and organizations that may house your future furry friend:
- Free Spirit Siberian Rescue (FSSR) – This non-profit organization aims to rescue Siberian Huskies and Husky mixes like the Belusky to place them in loving homes. This rescue provides spaying and neutering services, microchipping, and vaccinations for every rescued dog to make sure that all available dogs are ready for adoption.
- Petfinder – Run by animal care professionals and passionate volunteers, Petfinder serves as an online directory of over 11,000 animal shelters and rescues across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The site offers a simple and convenient interface for those looking for their own Belgian Malinois Husky mixed pup.
- Adopt-A-Pet – Adopt-A-Pet places homeless animals with millions of adopters every month. With a network of 21,000 animal shelters, humane societies, SPCAs, pet rescue groups, and pet adoption societies using the Adopt-A-Pet website to advertise rescued dogs, finding a Malinois Husky mix on this site is not impossible.
If it is your first time adopting a dog, make sure you are emotionally and financially prepared. Most often, dogs from rescues need a little more maintenance than most dogs.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Belusky
Like most dogs, there are plenty of advantages to owning and taking care of a Belusky. However, there are also some disadvantages to keep in mind before adopting or buying this mixed-breed dog.
Here are the pros of owning a Belusky:
- Excellent watchdogs: As mentioned earlier, the intelligence and trainability of Beluskies make them ideal working dogs. Their devotion and protective tendencies ensure that you and your family are always safe from harm.
- Good family dogs: Besides being great guard dogs, Belusky dogs are ideal family pets. Their energy and zeal will mesh well with small children. Also, they are highly loyal and affectionate and will not be afraid to show their appreciation!
- Energetic and highly active: The Belusky is the perfect companion for those with active lifestyles. Running, hunting, and other outdoor activities are right up their alley, so keeping up with highly active owners will likely be no problem for this energetic dog.
On the other hand, here are some of the cons of owning a Belusky:
- Possible health issues: Given that the Belusky may inherit some illnesses from its parents, owners should be aware of genetic health issues and the expenses that come with it. Furthermore, this breed is prone to skin allergies and joint issues, such as hip and elbow dysplasia.
- Not suited for apartment living: The Belusky may not be the largest breed, but it is still a very sizable dog that requires a lot of space. Unless the apartment has a decent backyard with a secure fence where it can release any pent-up energy, a Belusky will not thrive living in small living conditions.
- Not ideal for inexperienced owners: The Belusky is considered a high-maintenance pet because it requires constant physical and mental stimulation. First-time dog owners may be overwhelmed by the Belusky’s hyperactivity and possible aggressive tendencies, especially if it has not been trained properly.
Learning all about the pros and cons of the Belgian Malinois Husky mix is key in deciding whether or not this gorgeous mixed breed is suited for you and your lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Belgian Malinois Husky Mixes Shed a Lot?
Inheriting the dense double coat of a Siberian Husky means that the Malinois Husky mix sheds a lot, especially in shedding seasons. This is why this breed should be brushed at least once or twice weekly.
Are Belgian Malinois Husky Mixes Hypoallergenic?
Unfortunately, the Belgian Malinois mix sheds quite moderately, so it is not hypoallergenic. The amount of loose fur and dander that may appear in your home can be risky for people with allergies.
Do Belgian Malinois Husky Mixes Bark a Lot?
A Belusky dog is considered a moderate barker, likely due to its herding instincts.
Although they can be trained to be less vocal, you should still expect a Belusky to bark when alerting others of potential threats or simply if it has too much energy to stay quiet.
Final Thoughts
A Belgian Malinois mixed with a Husky is not like the other dogs. In many ways, this hybrid can be considered a super breed of dog with its intelligence, protective instincts, and great stamina.
However, keeping up with a dog like this can be very difficult, so it is best to consider whether you can take on the responsibility and challenge of owning a Belusky dog.
For those who are lucky enough to have Belgian Malinois Husky mix in their families, go ahead and share your experiences with us in the comments below!
