The grooming requirements of a dog are largely dependent on both the breed, and the type of coat. For your dog guard, grooming will be largely based on these two factors. However, considering that the German Shepherd and the Belgian Malinois are two of the most common breeds used as guard dogs, and that both share nearly identical grooming requirements, the following grooming tips should apply to the many guard dog owners with either of these two breeds.

Both the German Shepherd and the Belgian Malinois are considered relatively low-maintenance breeds of dog. Of course, this does not mean that regular grooming can be completely avoided. Both breeds will shed lightly year-round. It is advised that you brush your guard dog at least twice a week to prevent the fur from matting. Both of these breeds also shed seasonally. This means that twice a year, over the course of a couple weeks, they will shed profusely in order to rid themselves of their winter or summer undercoat, and allow the next season’s undercoat to grow in. This may be a good time to bathe your dog. Baths should only be given once or twice per year in order to prevent the natural oils in the fur and skin from drying out. The removal of fur during seasonal shedding can sometimes be made easier when the fur is almost, but not completely, dry after bathing.

Although there are literally thousands of dog brushes to choose from, we at CCK9 feel that the best brush money can buy is the Furminator brush. We use it on all of our Guard Dogs and Protection Dogs, whether it be a German shepherd, Dutch shepherd, or a Belgian Malinois which typically has a shorter coat. When using the Furminator, it is important use it on a consistent basis, at less two or three times per week, to be 100% effective.