5 Commands Every Belgian Malinois Should Obey

Belgian Malinois are widely recognized as one of the most intelligent, athletic, and driven dog breeds in the world. Commonly used in police forces, military units, search-and-rescue teams, and elite dog sports, this breed thrives on structure, discipline, and purpose.

However, the same traits that make them exceptional working dogs can also make them challenging pets if obedience training is neglected.

This in-depth, SEO-friendly article explains the 5 most important commands every Belgian Malinois should obey, including training methods, benefits, facts, and real-world applications. If trained correctly, these commands help shape a balanced, obedient, and mentally fulfilled dog.

Why Obedience Training Is Non-Negotiable for Belgian Malinois

Belgian Malinois were originally bred for herding livestock and later refined for protection and tactical work. Adult Malinois typically weigh 25–30 kg and can reach speeds of 30 mph, making control and recall absolutely critical.

Without structured obedience training:

• Excess energy can lead to destructive behavior
• Strong prey drive can cause chasing incidents
• Lack of impulse control may result in reactivity

Proper training improves:

• Mental stimulation
• Safety
• Handler control
• Confidence and emotional stability

Quick Overview: Core Commands for Belgian Malinois

Command	Primary Purpose	Key Benefit	Best Training Stage
Sit	Foundational control	Calm behavior & focus	8–12 weeks
Stay	Impulse control	Safety in public	After “Sit”
Come	Recall & safety	Prevents run-offs	Puppy to adult
Heel	Leash discipline	Controlled walking	After basics
Leave It / Drop It	Hazard prevention	Prevents accidents	After basics

Command 1: Sit – The Foundation of Obedience

The Sit command is often the very first command taught, and for good reason. It teaches the dog to pause, focus, and wait for guidance.

Why “Sit” Is Essential

• Reduces jumping on people
• Calms over-excited behavior
• Forms the base for advanced commands like Stay and Heel

How to Train

1. Hold a treat above the dog’s nose.
2. Move it slowly backward.
3. As the dog lowers its rear, say “Sit.”
4. Reward immediately.

With consistent practice, most Belgian Malinois learn this command within days, even at a young age.

Command 2: Stay – Teaching Patience and Self-Control

The Stay command teaches your Malinois to hold a position until released. This command is vital for real-world safety.

Why “Stay” Matters

• Prevents bolting through doors
• Controls behavior around traffic
• Builds emotional discipline

Training Method

• Start with the dog in a Sit position.
• Say “Stay” while holding your palm forward.
• Step back slowly.
• Reward for holding position.

Gradually increase:

• Distance
• Duration
• Distractions

Command 3: Come – The Life-Saving Recall Command

The Come command, also known as recall, is one of the most critical commands for Belgian Malinois due to their speed and curiosity.

Why Recall Is Crucial

• Prevents dangerous situations
• Allows off-leash freedom
• Strengthens trust between dog and handler

Effective Recall Training

• Start in enclosed areas.
• Use a cheerful, confident tone.
• Reward heavily with treats, toys, or praise.

A reliable recall can take weeks or months to fully proof, but consistent practice ensures success.

Command 4: Heel – Controlled Walking for High-Energy Dogs

Belgian Malinois are powerful and energetic, which makes leash pulling a common issue. The Heel command teaches your dog to walk calmly beside you.

Benefits of Heel Training

• Prevents leash pulling
• Improves public behavior
• Enhances handler leadership

Training Steps

1. Keep the dog on a loose leash.
2. Hold rewards near your leg.
3. Say “Heel” and move forward.
4. Stop walking when pulling occurs.
5. Resume only when the leash is relaxed.

With repetition, your Malinois learns that calm walking equals forward movement.

Command 5: Leave It / Drop It – Impulse Control and Safety

These two commands are critical for preventing accidents involving dangerous objects, food, or wildlife.

Difference Between the Two

• Leave It: Ignore something before touching it
• Drop It: Release something already in the mouth

Why These Commands Matter

• Prevents poisoning or choking
• Controls prey drive
• Reduces possessive behavior

Training Technique

• Start with low-value items.
• Reward immediately when the dog disengages.
• Gradually increase difficulty.

These commands are especially important outdoors, where hazards are unpredictable.

Best Training Practices for Belgian Malinois

1. Consistency Is Key

Use the same words, tone, and gestures every time. Malinois respond best to clear, structured communication.

2. Short, Focused Sessions

Ideal training sessions last 10–15 minutes, repeated 2–3 times daily.

3. Positive Reinforcement Works Best

Reward-based training builds trust and motivation. Harsh corrections can lead to fear or resistance.

4. Mental Stimulation Is Essential

Combine obedience training with:

• Puzzle toys
• Tracking games
• Agility drills

Why Obedience Commands Are Essential for Belgian Malinois

Belgian Malinois are highly intelligent, energetic, and purpose-driven dogs that require structured training to thrive. Due to their strong working instincts and high physical capability, basic obedience commands are not just about manners but about control and safety.

Commands like Sit, Stay, and Come help establish clear communication between the dog and handler, allowing the Malinois to understand boundaries and expectations.

Without this structure, their excess energy and sharp instincts can lead to behavioral problems such as excessive pulling, chasing, or destructive habits.

Consistent obedience training also provides essential mental stimulation, which is just as important as physical exercise for this breed. Teaching and reinforcing commands like Heel and Leave It strengthens impulse control and builds trust, making the dog more confident and responsive in real-world situations.

When trained properly, a Belgian Malinois becomes a disciplined, focused, and reliable companion, capable of adapting to both active family life and demanding working roles.

Belgian Malinois are not ordinary dogs—they are intelligent, powerful, and purpose-driven. Teaching them the five essential commands—Sit, Stay, Come, Heel, and Leave It / Drop It—creates the foundation for a safe, obedient, and mentally satisfied companion.

With structured training, consistency, and positive reinforcement, your Belgian Malinois can excel not only as a working dog but also as a loyal, disciplined family member.

FAQs