When you think of owning a pet, what kind of animal comes to mind? Do you picture an adorable puppy or a loyal adult dog? Or maybe one that has unique features like long hair, broad shoulders, large size, or even horns? Many people, they’re able to relate to both types of pets. But there is still one major difference when comparing them to determine which type of pet would be right for you.
While we may all have similar backgrounds when it comes to our relationship with animals, the way we see ourselves as well as how we view others can make all the difference in the world. And this includes if you should get a male or female dog.
In order to help you decide which type of dog might suit your lifestyle better, here are some key points to consider when deciding whether to own males or females.
What Are the Pros to Owning Male Dogs?
There are several advantages associated with having male dogs over those who opt to own females. First off, let’s talk about what makes male dogs so popular among those looking to adopt a new pet.
One reason why men might prefer males is simply because of their appearance. In general, most women tend to find males more attractive than females. This is due largely to their larger stature, muscular build, shaggy coats, and other characteristics that increase physical appeal. Men who choose to own male dogs often enjoy these traits, making them more appealing to look at than their counterparts who chose to go after females.
Another advantage to owning male dogs is that they typically don’t require much training. Compared to females, male dogs are easier to manage and take care of. They don’t need any special attention, such as brushing, grooming, or bathing, since they naturally shed fur. However, they do require basic obedience training on top of feeding and water access.
Lastly, male dogs are known for being protective and attentive parents. In addition to taking good care of themselves, they will typically watch out for their pups. As such, they offer a great companion and protector while keeping you safe around the house.
What Are Some Cons When It Comes to Owning Male Dogs?
Although there are plenty of benefits to owning male dogs, there are certain disadvantages too. The main disadvantage is that males are more prone to aggression compared to females. Because of their testosterone-fueled nature, males tend to exhibit a lot of strength and power. So, if you want something docile or friendly but not aggressive, then perhaps going for a female might be a better choice.
On the flip side, some people claim that owning a male dog is less expensive than getting a female. Since males won’t require medication or spaying/neutering, their vet bills are lower. Additionally, it takes fewer resources to maintain a male dog versus a female dog.
It does depend on the individual circumstance, though. If you already have another pet, such as a cat, then it might cost a bit more to maintain two pets. Also, males and females react differently to certain situations. For instance, a male dog might become aggressive when he gets into a fight or feels threatened by anything other than humans. On the contrary, a female dog may only show aggression towards her littermates (if she doesn’t happen to be neutered).
What Are the Advantages of Having Female Dogs?
As mentioned earlier, there are plenty of reasons that women might favor owning female dogs instead of males. One big plus is that females are typically calmer, friendlier, and gentler. Therefore, they’re usually better suited to handle interactions with children or anyone else without feeling intimidated or afraid.
This is especially true if they’ve been trained properly. Also, unlike males, females rarely bark or growl. Their calm demeanor means that they’ll typically stay out of fights or altercations. Another benefit to female dogs is that they’re generally less destructive than males. Although they can chew up the furniture and break things, they’ll likely stop short of doing serious damage.
Additionally, female dogs aren’t quite as messy as males. Unlike male dogs, they don’t urinate and defecate everywhere. Instead, their waste stays within their body, giving them cleaner living conditions. Finally, if you live alone, then you can save money on food since they don’t eat nearly as much as males.
What Are Some Disadvantages of Owning Females?
Like males, there are definitely drawbacks to owning female dogs. One downside is their tendency to be somewhat difficult to train. Unlike males, they can sometimes struggle with simple commands, and they may not respond to praise or reward very well.
Additionally, their reproductive cycle isn’t as predictable as males’. While they can reproduce once every year, it can vary from breed to breed. Most female dogs will start ovulating as early as six months old and give birth to fully grown pups anywhere from eight weeks to five years later.
Aside from this, female dogs are more susceptible to health problems than males. Just like human females, they can experience perimenopause, menopause, and osteoporosis. These issues can affect their ability to produce eggs and lead to fertility problems.
Lastly, the process of mating can be complicated for female dogs. After reaching sexual maturity, they must first become ready before they can mate. Then, they must find a male willing to mate with them. Once they find him, they have to wait until he’s in heat. And finally, they must convince him to mate with them. All of this can take time and effort, although some breeds are more receptive to breeding than others.
Are There Any Other Factors That Might Play a Role in Your Deciding Whom to Get?
There are definitely other factors to consider when selecting a pet. Aside from gender, there are other considerations that could play a role in your decision. For example, if you live in an area where it snows a lot, owning a male dog might not be ideal for you. Likewise, if you travel frequently, you may not want a pet that requires walking on a leash.
If you have allergies, then it could be problematic if your pet sheds fur. Similarly, if you have kids, then you’ll want to avoid a pup that tends to dig up toys or chew shoes. Lastly, if you’re environmentally conscious, buying a purebred dog could be harmful. Purebreds are bred specifically for profit, so they can end up causing genetic defects and other health issues.
Overall, the best answer to this question depends on your personal situation. If you’re interested in adopting a new pet, you should always consult a veterinarian before making the final decision.
Should I Choose Males or Females?
Ultimately, the answer to this question depends on your preferences and lifestyle. Whether you prefer males or females really boils down to your personality and preference. If you’re someone who prefers peace and quiet, then a female might be the best fit for you.
Conversely, if you’re outgoing and active, then a male dog might work better for you. However, no matter what your particular circumstances are, it’s important to remember that the best option for you may not be the same thing for everyone else. Everyone’s different, after all.