BRIARCLIFF CAVALIERS

Male vs Female Puppy

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Many people believe that female dogs make better pets...female preference seems to be ingrained in some people.  Most calls for pet dogs have people wanting a female.  They don't think females display alpha behaviours like 'marking' and/or 'humping'.  They believe that they are more docile and attentive and do not participate in fighting over dominance. 

 

NOT TRUE   - they don't call them 'bitch' for nothing!

 

In the dog pack makeup, females usually rule the roost, determine pecking order, and who compete 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 2 females.  Males, on the other hand, are usually more affectionate, exuberant, attentive, and more 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 (is that a surprise?) and praise, and so eager to please that training is easy.  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.  

 

While the female will usually come to you for attention, when she's had enough, she will move away.  While boys are always waiting for your attention and near at hand, the female is much more prone to mood swings.  One day she may be sweet and affectionate-the next day reserved and withdrawn.

 

I don't want this information to imply that the female is not a wonderful pet and companion, they are.  I am sharing this information because many people gravitate to the female not ever understanding the pure joy the male dog gives his owner.  The way I have come to express it is, "My females love me, my males are 'in love' with me".  I never need to worry about what my male dogs are up to; they are always at my side.

 

I hope this gives you some answers as you are deciding the best choice for your new pet.