Yes and No. The sex of your dog has nothing to do with training your dog. Some people say females are harder to train than males but in reality, there is no scientific evidence to prove this. A good fit between dogs and owners is more dependent on factors of lifestyle, training plan, socialization, and desired temperament than sex. However, there are some differences to consider when getting a male or female dog.
Anatomically speaking Males and Females are different
Males tend to be larger in height and weight than female dogs. So if the size of your dog is a considering factor and you don’t have much space consider a female vs a male dog.
Female dogs tend to reach maturity faster than males. Making training slightly easier than with a male dog the same age. But male dogs are not impossible to train just need more patience and guidance.
Hormonal Differences
A Spay is a procedure where they remove a female dog’s reproductive organs
Neutering is a procedure where they remove the male dog’s testes.
Behavior issues are seen more in intact male dogs. These are marking territory, human, dog, or object humping, and escaping to look for a mate endangering themselves in the process.
So Are female dogs easier to train than males?
Health Differences
Spaying and Neutering have many benefits in addition to population control such as preventing unwanted behaviors.
Spaying can help prevent mammary cancer or uterine infections.
Neutering can help prevent benign prostatic hyperplasia and testicular cancer.
The timing of the spay or neuter is also a factor in the dog’s health. In the past vets have recommended spaying and neutering early (before they hit puberty) to prevent the development of unwanted behaviors. However, in recent studies, there is evidence that it is actually best for the dog to reach physical maturity before spaying or neutering. This does vary from breed to breed but if you wait you can have fewer orthopedic issues and developments of cancer.
Behavioral Differences So Are female dogs easier to train than males?
Males are more likely to bite than females. But you have to also consider training, temperament, situation, and upbringing when dealing with dangerous or fearful dogs.
It is a known fact that males and females get along better with each other than with their own sex. Especially females tend to have issues with other females and that is why many rescues strongly discourage adopting a female into an already female home.
Choosing a Dog
Ultimately choosing a dog to bring home is a wonderful and exciting journey. When getting a new dog take into account the breed, temperament, and lifestyle.
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Really interesting post!