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Many people believe that female dogs make better pets...female preference seems to be ingrained in these people. Most calls for pet dogs have people wanting a 'sweet girl'. They don't think females display alpha behaviours like 'marking' and/or 'humping'. They believe that they are more docile and attentive and do not participate in fighting over dominance. Well folks, this is not true and they don't call them a 'bitch' for nothing!
In the dog pack makeup, females usually rule the roost, determine pecking order, and who compete to maintain and/or alter that order. The females are, as a result, more independent, stubborn, and territorial than their male counterparts. The females are much more intent upon exercising their dominance by participating in alpha behaviors such as 'humping'. There IS a reason people utilize the technical dog term of 'bitch' in a negative way-and it refers directly to the behaviors exhibited by the females of the dog world. Most fights will usually break out between 2 females. Males, on the other hand, are usually more affectionate, exuberant, attentive, and more demanding of attention. They are very attached to their people. They also tend to be more steadfast, reliable, and less moody. They are more outgoing, more accepting of other pets, and take quicker to children. Most boys are easily motivated by food (how true!!) and praise, and so eager to please that training is easy. However, males can be more easily distracted during training, as males like to play so often. And no matter what age, he is more likely to act silly and more puppy- like, always wanting to play games. Boys are fun loving until the day they die. Females tend to be more reserved or dignified as they age. Witness the human equivalent of the twinkling eyed Grandpa still playing catch at age 70, while Grandma quietly observes from the porch. Another Breeder's point of view: WHAT MAKES A MALE MY CHOICE FOR A FAMILY I get so many calls a day saying "Oh I have just got to have one of your FEMALE maltese" sometimes I just want to scream "Just what is wrong with a little boy?" Little boys are more obedient...loyal...loving...and so eager to please. Neutered males (by the age of six months) will not do those nasty little boy things like hiking on the furniture as the hormones will not have the chance to come down. Little boys tend to love the entire family where as a little girl will get her favorite and stick to that person, they are also more territorial. Any breeder will tell you not to get 2 females, but it is perfectly fine to have 2 males...kinda tells you something there. But no one has to take my words for any of it,call your vet...call other breeders.....ask their opinion. Just my two cents The difference between sizes and sexes is minimal, if bred correctly, and for improving the breed according to the standard. Neutered males rarely exhibit secondary sexual behavior such as 'humping', or 'marking' and lifting of legs. Once the testosterone levels recede after neutering, most of these behaviors (if they ever existed) will disappear. Boys who were neutered early (by 6 months of age) usually don't ever raise their leg to urinate. And while the female will usually come to you for attention, when she's had enough, she will move away. While boys are always waiting for your attention and near at hand. Females are usually less distracted during training, as she is more eager to get it over with, and get back to her comfy spot on the couch. The female is less likely to wage a dominance battle with YOU, but she can be cunning and resourceful in getting her own way. She is much more prone to mood swings. One day she may be sweet and affectionate-the next day reserved and withdrawn or even grumpy. The female also has periods of being 'in heat' unless she is spayed. Seasonal heats can be a month long nightmare-not just for the female, but you and every male dog in the neighborhood. If you are not breeding, you'd be best off to have her spayed. Since during this time she can leave a bloody discharge on carpets, couches, or anywhere she goes. She will be particularly moody and emotional during this time. A walk outside during this period can become hazardous if male dogs are in the vicinity, and she will leave a 'scent' for wandering intact males to follow right to your yard, where they will hang out, and 'wait' for days. Just a quick testimonial! I have 2 male Maltese who will be 1 year old in July, 03. They are the most fun loving playful dogs I have ever had. They play for hours with each other and are just like kids. They steal each others toys, wrestle all the time and want to be in your lap the rest of the time. They have not been territorial except with each others toys and if you let them they would kiss you for hours. Anyone who would like to know more about having two boys, I would be happy to talk with them. Nancy A. Heske Director of Finance Orthopaedic Specialty Group |
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