One of the first considerations that come to mind when picking out a puppy is the gender question. Will a male or a female fit better for your family? Will it be easier to train a male or a female? Both male and female puppies can make great pets and the personality of the puppy is much more important|crucial| than the gender of the puppy.
Many factors go into choosing of a pet. The size, temperament and level of care that the breed requires are far more crucial than the gender of the dog. Much like humans, male and female dogs have distinct personality attributes but either gender can be a wonderful pet and both genders can be well trained.
It is important to get your new pet spayed or neutered unless you are willing to take on the responsibility of breeding. A female dog that is not spayed will go into heat every so often and it can be a messy challenge. A male dog will go out roaming in search of a female dog in heat and that can also pose a challenge. Being a responsible breeder is more than just enjoying a cute litters of puppies occasionally. In consideration of the many homeless pets out there, breeding dogs is not a responsibility to be taken lightly. Spaying and neutering is the wise choice.
Male dogs are often thought to be more territorial and therefore better watchdogs. Females are usually a bit smaller in stature but are believed to have more loving and warmer temperaments. Families with young children may choose a female dog because of the maternal instincts of a female or they may want a male because of the increased energy and endurance to play. It is an individual decision based upon what you are wanting in a pet.
Dogs, whether they are male or female, do have their own personalities. Female dogs can be just as aggressive as male dogs and male dogs can be just as loving and gentle as female dogs. Characterizations such as these are just generalizations and there is always an exception to every rule. The important thing is how your dog’s personality meshes with your family.
While there are behaviors that are more prominent in one gender, such as territorial marking with a male and a level of independence in a female both genders can and will exhibit similar behaviors at different times. For example, in times of stress a female dog will mark her territory just like a male dog and a male dog will have times when they want to be alone and independent for awhile.
Housetraining may be a little bit easier with a female puppy but all dogs can be housetrained so this is not a reason to choose a puppy. Male puppies are often used as police dogs because of their increased endurance. It may be reasonable to consider the gender of your puppy if you are looking for something specific, however, a great pet is one that has a pleasant personality that meshes into your family whether the puppy is a male or a female.
Choose a puppy that will become a much-loved and trusted member of your family no matter the gender. Puppies of both genders offer some challenges as they grow up but the rewards are worth it.
