| Male Vs. Female What's the Difference Anyhow? In most breeds, it is the female who determines the pecking order, and who competes to maintain and/or alter that order. The females are, as a result, often more independent, stubborn, and territorial than their male counterparts. The females can be much more intent upon exercising their dominance by participating in alpha behaviors. There is a reason people utilize the technical dog term of "bitch" in a negative connotation - and it refers directly to the behaviors exhibited by the females of the dog world. On the other hand, males can be more affectionate, exuberant, attentive, and more demanding of attention while seeming to never getting enough. They are very attached to their people. They also tend to be less moody. Most boys are easily motivated by praise and food, 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. 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. Some females tend to become 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 sex behavior such as "humping" or marking and lifting of legs. Once testosterone levels recede after neutering, most of these behaviors (if they ever existed) will disappear. Boys should be neutered early (by 9 months). While the female will usually come to you for attention, when she's had enough, she will move away. But the boys like to wait for your attention near at hand. Females usually are 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 may want to wage a dominance battle with YOU, and she can be cunning and resourceful in getting her own way. She is more prone to mood swings. 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 also for you and every male dog in the neighborhood. It is best to have her spayed for this reason and to prevent future health problems associated with intact females (uterine infections, mammary tumors, etc.). She will be particularly moody during this time. A walk outside during this period can be hazardous if male dogs are in the vicinity. She will leave a "scent" for wandering intact males to follow right to your yard, where they will hang out and wait for days. |