Male or Female?

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Should I get a male or a female puppy?

 Male or Female?

Many people believe that female dogs make better pets. Female preference seems to be ingrained in many people since childhood. Most calls for pet dogs are from people wanting a sweet little girl. They don't think females will display alpha behaviors like marking and/or humping. Most believe that females are more docile and attentive and do not participate in fighting over dominance. This simply is not true.

In a dog pack, females usually rule the roost, and determine the pecking order. The females are, as a result, more independent, stubborn, and territorial than the males. The females are much more intent upon exercising their dominance by participating in such alpha behaviors such as humping. Any fights will usually break out between 2 females, usually over food, but rarely in Cavaliers. Males, on the other hand, are usually more affectionate, exuberant, attentive, and more demanding of your attention. They are very loyal and attached to their people. They also tend to be more reliable and less moody. They are more outgoing, more accepting of other pets, and take quickly to children. Most boys are easily motivated by food and praise, and so eager to please that training is easy. No matter what his age, a male is more likely to act silly and more puppy-like, always wanting to play games. Boys are always ready for some fun. Females tend to be more reserved and dignified as they age.

Neutered males rarely exhibit sexual behavior such as humping, or marking and lifting of legs. Once the testosterone levels recede after neutering, most of these behaviors will disappear. Boys, who were neutered early, by 5 or 6 months of age, usually don't even raise their leg to urinate. The trick is getting them neutered early, before their male hormones kick in.

And while the female will come to you for attention, when she's had enough, she will retreat to a spot to rest. Boys are always close by and waiting for your attention, quite often sleeping at your feet.

The female is much more prone to mood swings. One day she may be sweet and affectionate and the next day could be reserved and withdrawn or even grumpy. The female also has periods of being in heat unless she is spayed. Seasonal heats can be a month long nightmare, for her, you, and every male dog in the neighborhood. If you don’t plan on breeding, it is important to have her spayed. During this time she can leave a bloody discharge on carpets, couches, and everywhere she goes. She will be especially moody and emotional during this time. Walking outside during this time can be hazardous if male dogs are in the area, and she will leave a scent for all intact males to follow right to your yard, where they will hang out, and wait for days. They can detect this scent from miles away.

Whether you decide on a male or a female, having them spayed or neutered will make for a much better pet with a more stable disposition. It also can lenghten their life. They will have less stress due to sexual inclinations, plus it can help to also avoid uterine cancer in the females and testicular cancer in the males.

These facts are written for all breeds of dogs. The Cavaliers, having such a sweet disposition, display a sweet, loving personality regardless of sex, especially when spayed or neutered.

So think hard before you make your decision. All pets need to be spayed or neutered, so sometimes it is just best to pick the puppy you like the most, regardless of the sex.