Is a male or female puppy best for you!

Getting a new puppy is always fun! The question is do you want a male or female. They are differences that may make you prefer one over the other.

Some people may say that male dogs are more affectionate or that female dogs tend to be “moodier” little research has been done on the difference in behaviors among male versus female. Studies at Cornell and Tufts have found that more male dogs presented with aggression towards humans. Female dogs presented with aggression towards other dogs, Particularly towards dog in their own home.

You should consider your household and the lifestyle that you and your dog will have. If you have lots of people in and out for gatherings or like to take your dog into public places, a female may be the best choice. If you have several dogs or intend to add to your canine family, a male may be a better fit.

Females tend to have more problems with anxiety and phobias. If your house is a loud and busy place with lots of chaos, a male puppy may be more likely to be content.

Sex is just one factor in a puppy’s personality. Genetics play a huge role. The best thing you can do when choosing a puppy is to meet the parents and ask lots of questions about their temperament and behavior. Does the mother dog greet you happily, or does she cower and hide? Does she snap or growl to try to prevent you from interacting with the puppies? A calm, friendly, confident dam is much more likely to produce puppies with those qualities. Ask about how both parents handle loud noises. How they handle other dogs in the household and strangers coming into their house or encountered in public. Can the dogs be left alone with out being destructive or barking excessively?

If you are not able to meet or learn about the puppy’s parents, ask a lot of questions about the puppy itself and how he or she has been raised.

Also research your breed and find out what the breed was bred to do. If you take a Border Collie and try to make a house pet with little activity you will have problems. These dogs were bred to work and herd. Many dogs are surrendered because they did not fit the family’s lifestyle and proper care was not taken in selection of the best dog for them. Talk with your veterinarian about puppy selection. You are getting a companion for many years.

If you have questions about puppy selection or care contact Dr Norette L. Underwood of Trumann Animal Clinic at catdoc56@gmail.com.