Picking out a new furry family member may be joyful, but it isn't always easy. From physical size to gender and other factors, you have to consider a lot of different things. Fortunately, male and female dogs do not differ much in terms of basic disposition. Remember, though, that all pooches are individuals.
Temperament Differences
The word "temperament" generally describes the way an animal -- or human being -- behaves, thinks, approaches and responds to things and situations. In a broad sense, boy and girl dogs are similar, according to the American Kennel Club. Most of the behavioral variations that exist between male and female dogs relate to sexuality. Fixed male and female dogs are not usually that far apart in how they typically behave.
Subtle Differences
Although male and female pooches certainly aren't on opposite planets temperamentwise, some people may notice subtle differences in how they act. Female dogs may be more apt to do things on their own, while male dogs may be a tad more loving and people-focused, reports Emilie Sennebogen of Animal Planet. Despite this, you may notice that many female pooches are significantly more tender than other males, and also that some male doggies are a lot more self-sufficient than some of the girls. It is impossible to always accurately predict a dog's behavior based merely on gender.
Puppy Stage
During the puppy stage, before fixing, you may observe some tiny temperament differences. Female puppies may be a little easier to teach and train, while male puppies may have a little less concentration and a little more concern over turf and social status matters, according to Patricia Kime of DogChannel.com. Before homing puppies, many breeders put their youngsters through temperament testing that compares them agaisnt standards of the breed. Some tests take note of behavioral patterns in pups and whether they display dominant or subordinate patterns.
Neutering and Spaying Dogs
Regardless of gender, sexually mature dogs frequently display hormonal behavioral patterns. Unspayed female dogs in heat may seem more watchful, antsy, frustrated and unsettled than usual. Unneutered male dogs may bark a lot, whimper a lot, mount others, try to leap over yard fences, mark with their urine, ignore commands and even behave aggressively, with actions such as growling. Although these behavior differences may sometimes be apparent in unfixed animals, they typically go away or at least greatly subside once neutering or spaying surgeries are performed.
Always check with your veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet, medication, or physical activity routines. This information is not a substitute for a vet’s opinion.
