Male or Female Dog – Which is Right for You?

At Jordan Dog Training, one of the most common questions we hear is:

“Should I get a male or a female dog?”

Some people swear that males are friendlier, while others believe females are easier to train. But is there any truth to these claims? The reality is that a dog’s breed, personality, upbringing, and training are far more important than gender alone.

So, let’s break down the key differences to help you choose the best fit for your home, lifestyle, and training goals.

Male vs. Female Dogs – What Are the Differences?

1️  Size & Build

In most breeds:

✔️ Males tend to be larger, heavier, and more muscular.

✔️ Females are slightly smaller, leaner, and often more agile.

For large breeds like German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and Great Danes, this difference can be quite noticeable. In smaller breeds, the size gap is often minimal.

Consider this if you have young children, limited space, or physical limitations that might make handling a larger dog more challenging.

2️ Personality & Temperament – Do Gender Differences Matter?

Personality traits vary more by breed and individual temperament than by gender. However, some general patterns have been observed:

✔️ Male dogs are often described as:

• More playful and goofy
• Affectionate and attention-seeking
• Social and eager to please

✔️ Female dogs are often seen as:

• Independent and strong-willed
• More mature and focused
• Affectionate but on their own terms

However, socialisation and training play a much bigger role than gender alone! A well-trained male will be calmer and more obedient than an untrained female (and vice versa).

Spend time with different dogs before deciding—personality matters more than sex!

3️ Trainability – Are Males or Females Easier to Train?

Some believe female dogs are easier to train because they mature faster. This can be true, especially in the early months.

✔️ Females often reach maturity sooner, meaning they can focus on training earlier.

✔️ Males tend to be more playful and easily distracted, especially as puppies.

However, with the right training methods, both males and females can be equally well-behaved.

Start training early, be consistent, and use positive reinforcement. Gender doesn’t determine intelligence—training does!

4️ Behavioural Differences & Hormonal Impact

One of the biggest factors influencing behaviour is hormones. If left unaltered:

✔️ Unneutered males are more likely to mark territory, mount objects, and display dominance-driven behaviour.

✔️ Unspayed females will go into heat twice a year, which can bring mood swings, nesting behaviour, and attract unwanted male attention.

🐾 Desexing can help regulate these behaviours and make training easier. However, the best time for desexing varies by breed, so speak to your vet for advice.

Talk to a Responsible Breeder for More Insights

If you’re considering a specific breed, it’s essential to speak to a responsible breeder.

✔️ Experienced breeders know their breed inside out and can tell you if there are temperament differences between males and females within their lines.

✔️ Some breeds show stronger gender-based personality differences than others, while in some breeds, the differences are negligible.

✔️ Breeders can help match you with a puppy that fits your home and lifestyle, regardless of sex.

A responsible breeder will prioritise temperament and health over whether the puppy is male or female. If you’re unsure, ask their opinion—they have experience observing the differences firsthand!

Male vs. Female Dogs: What’s Best for Your Home?

Still unsure? Consider these factors:

If you have children

• Both males and females can be great family dogs, but females tend to mature faster and may be less hyper as puppies.
• However, individual temperament is more important than gender.

If you already have a dog

• Opposite-sex pairings usually work best to avoid dominance conflicts, but proper introductions and training matter more than gender.
• Same-sex aggression is more common in certain breeds, so research breed tendencies.

If you want a high-energy dog

• Males are often more playful and boisterous, which can be great for active owners.
• Females may calm down earlier, which can be better for less active households.

If you want a more independent dog

• Females are often more self-sufficient and less clingy.
• Males may be more eager to please and crave attention more.

💡 The best way to choose a dog is to look at breed traits, personality, and how well they fit into your lifestyle.

Should You Get a Male or Female Puppy?

If you’re picking from a litter, don’t choose based on gender alone. Instead:

✔️ Spend time with the puppies and observe their personalities.

✔️ Choose a puppy that matches your energy level and lifestyle.

✔️ Talk to the breeder about the temperaments of past litters.

✔️ Look at breed tendencies and research their behavioural traits.

👀 Still unsure? Our team at Jordan Dog Training is happy to provide expert advice on selecting the right dog for your family.

Final Verdict: It’s About the Dog, Not the Gender

At the end of the day:

✔️ Training, socialisation, and breed matter far more than whether a dog is male or female.

✔️ Both sexes can be loving, intelligent, and well-behaved with the right guidance.

✔️ Meet the dog, ask questions, and pick based on personality—not just gender.

Whether you choose a male or female dog, early training is key to raising a well-adjusted pet. If you need help with training, we’re here to help!

Check out our training services at www.jordandogtraining.com.au

Do you have a preference for male or female dogs? Share your experiences in the comments!

⚕️ Veterinary Disclaimer:

The information in this post is for general guidance only and is not intended as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every dog is an individual, and factors like breed, health, and environment play a role in behaviour and development. We recommend consulting your veterinarian before making decisions about desexing, health care, or behavioural concerns.