Female or Male German Shepherd, Which is Better?

So you’ve decided on a German Shepherd. Congratulations, they are truly an amazing breed. However now comes the tough choice, whether to get a male or female?

The answer to that question will differ depending on the person being asked. Some people truly feel that one sex is better than the other.

For example, some people believe that the male GSD is more affectionate and easier to train, while the female GSD is more aggressive and protective of its owners and puppies.

That being said, ironically most of the time it is the other way around, the male is typically more aggressive, and the female is more affectionate and easier to train.

Additionally males tend to be more protective of their surrounding area while females are more protective of their family.

Ultimately the decision of whether to get a male or a female German Shepherd Dog is entirely dependent on the preference of the owner-to-be. Here are some quick facts to consider while battling with the question of which sex GSD to choose.

Please remember that every dog’s personality is different, so this will not and can never be 100% accurate, this is just the typical behavior expected and observed based on hormones.

Female GSD’s

Female Fact # 1: A female dog is typically smaller in size and tends to reach maturity faster than the male dog. Its early maturity gives it an advantage when it comes to training. This does not mean that the female dog is more intelligent than the male dog. It only means that the female dog will typically be easier to train than a male of the same age because it is more mature.

Female Fact # 2: A female dog typically goes through estrus, better known as “heat” twice a year unless she has been spayed. The heat cycle lasts about two weeks to three weeks. During this time frame, the female dog produces a bloody vaginal secretion in which the scent will attract male dogs.

Female Fact # 3: Spaying has been proven to lower the risk of many hormonal cancers, mammary tumors and cancers, as well as ovarian and uterine diseases in most female dogs. It is also been observed that spaying has positive effects on the behavior of a female dog, such as displaying much less aggression and becoming mellower.

Additionally, spaying also prevents accidental or unwanted pregnancies, so it is important to spay your female prior to her estrus cycle if you do not want to breed your dog.

***Many people disagree on when is the best time to spay a female dog, or even if a female dog should be spayed, so always get a professional opinion from your veterinarian.***

Male GSD’s

Male Fact # 1: An intact male German Shepherd tends to be more dominant and high-spirited. He has a testosterone driven urge to dominate other dogs, and will often try to dominate his owner as well. A weak owner can easily be dominated by a large GSD.

Male Fact # 2: Male GSD’s are typically more independent than females, so frequently females are more affectionate than males.

Male Fact # 3: If an intact male is in smelling distance of an “in heat” female, they sometimes act as those they have lost their minds. They often misbehave badly, and are usually constantly looking for a way to escape in order to get to the female to mate.

As with female dogs, if you do not intend to breed your male dog, it is best to neuter him while he is young to improve his behavior and make training easier. A neutered dog is generally less aggressive, calmer and less likely to roam. As to when is the best time to neuter your male dog, discuss that with your veterinarian.

***Again, many people disagree on when is the best time to neuter a male dog, or even if a male dog should be neutered, so always get a professional opinion from your veterinarian.***

So, have you decided which sex is better yet? Again, it’s personal choice, but since it’s a German Shepherd you really can’t go wrong no matter whether you choose male or female. They are truly a terrific and versatile breed.

I personally prefer females. I have always bonded more with females because mine have been very affectionate and more dependent. My husband however prefers males, as he has always bonded stronger with males and likes the fact that they tend to be more independent.

And as always for more great stories, articles, videos, etc. check out the rest of my German Shepherd Blog.

Thanks.