One of the most common questions I get asked is "What is the difference between a male or female?"  While there appear to be some common traits that are most prevelant in a specific gender, character traits vary from one animal to another.  Like people, each is unique and males or females don't always behave according to the lists below. The information below will outline some of the differences I have noticed between the genders. 

• Females:
       - like to be clean - will generally avoid puddles, rain or things that will make her dirty.
       - because she likes to be clean, she generally house trains more easily
       - is more prone to be tempermental and moody - spaying will help even out her temperament
       - is more independent - likes to stay on her comfy spot on the couch or carpet and will notice when you leave but won't necessarily get up to follow you.
       - can be fussy eaters - more likely to hunger strike if she doesn't like what she is being offered.  May turn up her nose at regular dog food and want "special" treatment.
       - is better for older, retired couples or families with older children as she can be jealous and prefers adult company to children
       - is likely to ignore attempts to play if she doesn't feel like it and needs to be motivated to learn what you want her to learn.  She will learn plenty of things on her own (how to hide your socks so you will never find them, how to open the cupboard door where the good food is stored, how to look pitiful so that she gets to sleep on your bed and hog the pillow)
       - are generally less territorial than their male counterparts so are usually quieter.

• Males:
       - ideal for families with children of all ages or other pets like cats because they can always be enticed to play and are generally more open to new things.
       - more dependent - want to be with you and involved in whatever you are doing (like reading the newspaper when you read the newspaper and being on your lap when you play cards or type on the computer)
       - love adventure and activity - anywhere, anytime and in any weather.  rain or shine, they just want to get involved.  Since puddles and weather don't bother them, they are always ready for a walk. May take longer to housetrain as they are so busy having fun, they forget to tell you they need to go out.
       - highly food/toy motivated and, consequently, are easier to train to basic obedience and tricks.  They are generally able to focus for longer periods of time so learn more things quickly.
       - make good door bells and welcoming committees.  Will alert you when someone is at the door but will usually greet people with a bark and then turn the responsibility of watching them over to you. You will soon find them bringing their toys to your houseguests trying to get them to engage in play

When you are considering a litter of puppies and looking for a new family member, please discuss the dynamics of your family with your breeder.  The breeder can help you pick the puppy that is the most suitable for you and your family regardless of gender.  Personality and temperament are more important than gender when considering the addition of a dog that could live 15 years or more.  Let your breeder help you find the puppy that will suit your family the best.  It's worth it!!