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In the dog pack makeup, females usually rule the roost, determine pecking order and who competes to maintain and/or alter that order. The females are, as a result, more independent, stubborn and territorial than their male counterparts. The females are much more intent upon exercising their dominance by participating in Alpha behaviors such as 'humping'. There IS a reason people utilize the technical dog term of 'bitch' in a negative way-and it refers directly to the behaviors exhibited by the females of the dog world. Most fights will usually break out between two females. Males, on the other hand, are usually more affectionate, exuberant, attentive and less demanding of attention. They are very attached to their people. They also tend to be more steadfast, reliable, and less moody. They are more outgoing, more accepting of other pets and take quicker to children. Most boys are easily motivated by food and praise and so eager to please that training is easy. However, males can be more easily distracted during training, as males like to play so often. And no matter what age, he is more likely to act silly and more puppy-like, always wanting to play games. Boys are fun loving until the day they die. Females tend to be more reserved or dignified as they age. Witness the human equivalent of the twinkling eyed Grandpa still playing catch at age 70, while Grandma quietly observes from the porch. Neutered males rarely exhibit secondary sexual behavior such as 'humping', or 'marking' and lifting of legs. Once the testosterone levels recede after neutering, most of these behaviors (if they ever existed) will disappear. Females are usually less distracted during training, as she is more eager to get it over with and get back to her comfy spot on the couch. The female is less likely to wage a dominance battle with YOU, but she can be cunning, stubborn and resourceful in getting her own way. She is much more prone to mood swings. One day she may be sweet and affectionate-the next day reserved and withdrawn or even grumpy. The female also has periods of being 'in heat' unless she is spayed. Seasonal heats can be a month long nightmare! not just for the female, but you and every male dog in the neighborhood and seasonal heats happen TWICE a year? If you are not breeding, you'd be best off to have her spayed since during this time she can leave a bloody discharge on carpets, couches, or anywhere she goes. She will be particularly moody and emotional during this time. A walk outside during this period can become hazardous if male dogs are in the vicinity, and she will leave a 'scent' for wandering intact males to follow right to your yard, where they will hang out and 'wait' for days. Research has also proven that a female NOT bred during a heat cycle stays in a flux of estrogen level which may give us the reason as to why females are more moody than males. Note also that males generally cost much less to have neutered as do females to be spayed. SO, before you decide on that age old question of male or female, give consideration to any other dogs that may be in or around your home, your financial situation as to having the dog altered and whether or not you have the space, time and money to raise a litter of puppies. You will find that neutering or spaying your dog will bring out his/her VERY BEST NATURE as they are not driven by hormones, become more balanced and can be all of their true personality without many of the problems described above.
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