A Male or Female? That is the Question.

Now that I've decided on a breed, the next step is to figure out if I want a boy or a girl. I read some articles online that says females are more highly desired than males and sometimes even cost more. On the same token, the cost gets negated if the dog gets fixed because it costs more to spay than it does to neuter a puppy. They also said that after getting their crowned jewels removed, both sexes become pretty much gender neutral over time, so it becomes a matter of personal preference.

I think I'm a male dog kinda girl, but then I don't want to be sexist about the whole thing, so I've decided to go by temperament and characteristics....

Female Dogs:

1. Independent - Bitches tend to want to be in control of the entire situation. They may come to their owner when they are seeking affection but will often move away when they have had enough.
2. Stubborn - In many packs, a bitch is typically the Alpha. Female dogs crave more control of situations and are quick to respond to perceived challenges with fierceness.
3. Territorial - Female dogs mark in the same way male dogs do. A spayed female may continue to mark for her entire lifetime regardless of when she is spayed while most males will cease marking behaviors shortly after they are neutered and the testosterone levels subside.
4. Reserved - Bitches are generally less affectionate and friendly than male dogs. This characteristic is noticeable in puppies and becomes more pronounced with age.
   
5. Changes in Mood or Behavior - It is also important to note that if you do not spay your bitch, she will come into heat at approximately one year of age and approximately every six months thereafter. During this time, there will be some bleeding as well as a change in mood or behavior.

Male Dogs:

1. Affectionate - Male dogs are typically more affectionate than bitches. They tend to crave attention from their owners more than bitches and as a result, display more affectionate behaviors.
2. Exuberant - A male dog is also more likely to be fun-loving and outgoing throughout his lifetime than a bitch. While a bitch tends to become more reserved as she ages, a male dog maintains a more puppy-like exuberance throughout his lifetime.
3. Food-Motivated - Males are often very motivated by food. This food motivation can make training extremely easy as treats can be used to lure and reward a dog to display desired behaviors.
4. Attentive - While bitches tend to be more independent, males tend to be more focused on their human companions. They want to always be close to the human and are very eager to please.
5. Aggressive Behaviors - It is also important to note that intact males may display aggressive behaviors toward other males or exhibit marking behaviors. Additionally, intact males should be kept away from females in heat unless a breeding is planned.

Ok fine, who am I kidding? I'm just bringing this whole gender question up to be sexually correct. I'm getting a male.

I just can't stomach getting a bitch... one in my household is good enough for now! hehehe...