The difference between male and female dogs

The question of which are ‘better’, male or female dogs, is a subject that has yet to be studied scientifically. But most dog owners (lovers) have definite opinions based on their own experience.
Some believe the male dog is more affectionate and easier to train, while the female dog is more aggressive and protective of its owner and puppies. Well, the truth is when it comes to dogs and puppies, there is no superior sex. There is no study that has proven a general truth that a dog will behave a certain way because it is male or female.

Male dogs

Male dogs tend to be more stable in mood than female dogs –less prone to emotional swings. Male dogs are often bolder and more aggressive than females, although in some breeds it is the female that is sharper and more aggressive while the males might be described as ‘goofy’, klutzy or big softies.

Female Dogs

Female dogs are more prone to mood swings. They can be sweet and loving when they are happy – but a bit on the grumpy side if something is not to their liking. They can be manipulative when trying to convince you they really, really don’t want to do something. Female dogs are experts at the Dirty Look and the Sulk.
Female dogs are often less pushy and ‘in your face’ than male dogs are. Yes, females are affectionate, definitely, but often it is on their own terms. They may request lots of petting, and then assert their independence by walking away when they have had enough. Un-spayed females are moodier than un-castrated males. Although males tend to be more constant in temperament, they can be constantly annoying (sex drive). They are less attentive to their owners.

Breeds

Some breed examples:
• The dominant breeds like the Rottweiler, the females are often sweeter and more biddable than the males.
• The skittish breeds like Sheepdogs, the males tend to be more extrovert and approachable.
• And some breeds like the Golden Retriever show no noticeable difference when they are neutered.

Researchers concluded that female dogs have superior cognitive abilities because they need to rely on their sight over smell to keep track of a litter of puppies, who all tend to smell the same. Male dogs are more scent-orientated, so they may be less impressed by nuances in their visual field.

How to decide?

When deciding on a type of dog, concentrate of the breed type, or types in a mixed breed dog, rather than the gender and ask the breeder, shelter management or fosterer for advice. Anyway, nothing will ever be more important to a dog’s overall success in life than the care, guidance, training and nurturing that we provide.

With thanks to:

Pointer Veterinary, clinic and surgery. Estepona