Well, because I've owned both (and still have both) male and female dogs, I am hard-pressed to really advise . . . I love them equally. There are differences, however, but they are loose generalizations, not hard-and-fast rules. Males (of pretty much every breed I've owned/worked with) tend to be larger. They often come across as more easy-going, especially with family, while females seem a bit more emotionally intense, or "needy." Females seem more dramatic, while males seem more even-keeled. Owners often comment on their female dogs' "loving, adoring, sweet" personalities, while owners of male dogs are more inclined to talk about their pets being "lovable, adorable and sweet."

Because of this perception, whether accurate or not, people who admire dogs may be more likely to gravitate to male dogs, while people who wish to be the object of their dog's affection, more than the other way around, seem to seek female dogs. People often relate to canine behavior based on a human model, so there probably is a heavy dose of anthropomorphism influencing their gender-specific perceptions. Still, there are differences; hormones contribute to actual variations in male and female canine behavior. Intact males may be more aware of other dogs as well as territorial boundaries, while females often seem more concerned with social issues, such as attention from specific family members to whom they are emotionally attached. Hormone levels can differ from one dog to the next, whether or not a dog is neutered. Female puppies that had mostly male littermates, for instance, may be "androgenized" in utero, resulting in more typically "masculine" dog behavior. Protective behavior can be intense from both, with or without hormonal influence, especially in GSDs; this is one of the reasons the breed is highly favored for police work. Both male and female dogs make great pets as well as excellent working companions. Neither gender is exempt from the possibility of developing behavioral problems.

Because my last GSD was a male and was wonderful in every way, I guess if pressed to choose, I'd personally go with a male. But not just any male; the key is to pick an individual dog that suits you, by its individual personality traits, not just breed and gender. Selecting by gender can help people form strong emotional attachments based on their personal preferences, but it won't guarantee a problem-free relationship. Any dog can be more or less excitable; more or less dominant; more or less socially attracted; more or less sensitive to stress, sounds and touch; and more or less inhibitable. You would be wise to get very specific in describing the "perfect" fit by personality, and then seek a dog that matches. Some breeders actually conduct temperament tests to identify each of their puppies in a specific manner, and they use their results to help people select a dog based on suitability. An involved breeder can be the best source for advice on which puppy will fit into your life with the least amount of stress for both the dog and the people.

But in addition to being practical, it also is very important to feel an element of "chemistry" or an emotional "click" with a particular dog; it may be imagined, or projected wishful thinking, but it can be the first step toward establishing a solid, lasting bond. Choosing a pet yourself or trusting someone more experienced to do so for you, based on the dog's personality characteristics and suitability, not just "cute-ability," will give you the best odds for finding the "perfect" dog. Good luck!

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