Choosing a dog is a big decision, and one of the first questions many people ask is whether to get a male or female. Some assume there’s no real difference between the two, but science and experience suggest otherwise. Male and female dogs have distinct behaviors, tendencies, and even lifespans that could make one gender a better fit for certain households. Understanding these differences can help future dog owners make the right choice for their lifestyle.
Male Dogs Tend to Prefer Women
Dogs are known as man’s best friend, but in reality, male dogs tend to be more comfortable around women. Studies have found that male dogs are often reluctant to approach unfamiliar men. The reason may be a mix of biological and social factors – men typically have deeper voices, larger bodies, and facial hair, which could appear more intimidating to dogs. While this isn’t a universal rule, it’s an interesting pattern that could influence interactions in multi-person households.
Opposite-Sex Pairs Get Along Better
If you already have a dog and are thinking about adding another, gender could play a role in how well they get along. Many dog trainers and behaviorists recommend pairing opposite-sex dogs to avoid dominance struggles. Male-male or female-female pairings are more likely to lead to territorial disputes and fights, while opposite-sex pairs tend to coexist more peacefully. This is especially true if one dog is already established in the home, and a new one is introduced.
Male Dogs Have a Stronger Urge to Roam
One of the biggest behavioral differences between male and female dogs is their instinct to roam. Male dogs, especially if they haven’t been neutered, have a natural drive to seek out mates. This can lead them to escape yards, ignore commands, and venture long distances in search of a female in heat. In contrast, female dogs are generally more home-oriented, making them a better choice for owners who want a pet less prone to wandering.
Marking Territory: A Male Dog Habit
Both male and female dogs can mark their territory, but males are much more likely to do so. Male dogs often urinate in small amounts on various objects, trees, or even furniture to signal their presence. This behavior is even more pronounced in dogs that have not been neutered, as marking is a way to claim territory and attract potential mates. If cleanliness is a priority, a female dog might be the better option.
Lifespan: Female Dogs Live Longer
If longevity is a deciding factor, female dogs have the edge. Studies have shown that females, on average, outlive males. The biggest factor influencing lifespan, however, is whether the dog has been spayed or neutered. Dogs that undergo these procedures tend to live significantly longer than those that remain intact. Spaying prevents reproductive diseases like uterine cancer, while neutering reduces the risk of testicular cancer and behavioral risks like wandering into danger.
Aggression: Males Are More Likely to Bite
While both genders can display aggression, male dogs are statistically more likely to bite. Research has found that intact male dogs are six times more likely to bite than females. Aggression is often linked to dominance, territorial disputes, or fear. While training and socialization play major roles in temperament, male dogs may require extra effort in establishing proper behavior.
Female Dogs Experience Heat Cycles
Unspayed female dogs go into heat twice a year, which brings noticeable behavioral changes. They may become more restless, anxious, and driven to seek out a mate. During this time, they also produce a discharge that can attract nearby male dogs. Owners who do not plan to breed their dog often find spaying to be the best solution, as it eliminates these cycles and their associated challenges.
Male Dogs Are Not Natural Fathers
While female dogs instinctively nurture and protect their puppies, male dogs generally show little to no parental interest. Unlike wolves, where males play an active role in raising pups, domestic male dogs rarely contribute to the care of their offspring. In fact, they may even be indifferent or aggressive toward puppies. If maternal instincts and protective behavior are desirable traits, female dogs have the upper hand.
Most Dogs Are Right-Pawed, but Females More So
Just like humans are often left- or right-handed, dogs show paw preferences too. Studies have found that most dogs are right-pawed, and females are even more likely to favor their right front paw. This small but intriguing fact highlights subtle neurological differences between male and female dogs.
Mounting Behavior Occurs in Both Sexes
Many people assume that only male dogs engage in mounting behavior, but female dogs do it too. Mounting can be a form of dominance display, stress relief, or excitement. While it is more common in males, spayed females can also exhibit the behavior. Proper training can usually reduce excessive mounting in either gender.
Size Differences: Males Are Bigger and Stronger
On average, male dogs tend to be larger, with broader chests and more muscle mass due to higher testosterone levels. This size difference can be important for potential owners who have space constraints or prefer a dog they can physically handle more easily. Some of the world’s largest recorded dogs, including Zeus, the Great Dane, were males.
Adoption Trends: Male Dogs Spend More Time in Shelters
Interestingly, male dogs tend to stay in shelters longer before being adopted. This isn’t necessarily due to adopter preference but rather because more male dogs end up in shelters in the first place. One reason for this is their tendency to roam, which can result in them getting lost more frequently.
Which Makes a Better Pet?
So, which gender makes the better pet? The answer depends on what you’re looking for. If you want a more independent, active dog that might require a bit more training and patience, a male might be the right choice. If you prefer a more affectionate, nurturing dog with fewer dominance struggles and a longer lifespan, a female might be the better option.
No matter which you choose, proper training, care, and love will determine what kind of pet your dog becomes. In the end, the best dog is the one that fits best into your home and lifestyle.
Mark grew up in the heart of Texas, where tornadoes and extreme weather were a part of life. His early experiences sparked a fascination with emergency preparedness and homesteading. A father of three, Mark is dedicated to teaching families how to be self-sufficient, with a focus on food storage, DIY projects, and energy independence. His writing empowers everyday people to take small steps toward greater self-reliance without feeling overwhelmed.