Is it better to keep a male or female dog?
Expert Answer
There is no absolute advantage to choosing a male or female dog; it mainly depends on how the owner weighs the trade-offs. First, a male dog’s advantage is having no heat period, so during mating season you need not worry about soiling the sofa or carpet, nor about buying dog diapers.
Second, male dogs usually have stronger learning and reaction ability, making them relatively easier to train. Also, adult males are generally larger than females, look handsomer, and bark more loudly, giving you more of a sense of security.
A female’s advantages are a gentler, more obedient temperament and less barking, so she is less likely to disturb neighbors. Although her learning efficiency is lower than a male’s, she has better focus and follows through. Finally, females are cleaner with a lighter body odor, so odor-sensitive owners may prefer a female dog.