Male vs Female

Things to think about when making the decision.

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

Well Folks, this is not true and they don't call them a "bitch" for nothing!

In the dog pack makeup, females usually rule the roost, determine pecking order and are more prone to 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 "bitch" in a negative way and it refers directly to the behaviors exhibited by the females of the world. Most fights will usually break out between two females. 

Males, on the other hand, are usually more affectionate, exuberant, attentive, and more likely to seek your attention. They are inquisitive and love to work as your partner.  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.  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 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. Males that are not neutered may never show these behaviors unless around a female in heat.

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 also has periods of being in heat unless she is spayed.  These periods of being in heat can last up to 21 days or longer twice a year.  They are not only messy but many times come with a distinct odor.  

 Seasonal heats can be a month long nightmare, 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 might 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. 

Females that are not spayed are also in danger of getting pyometra which can be deadly.  

Males generally cost half the price to have neutered as a female to be spayed.  Also, consider if you are thinking of breeding whether you have the time, space or money to raise a litter of puppies