The finding that adult male dogs are bolder than females and females are more likely to be fearful or anxious than males is well known (Goddard and Beilharz 1982; Svartberg 2002; Starling et al. 2013; Salonen et al.
Researchers then selected several variables from the questionnaire and analyzed them. Among their findings: Female dogs were mostly anxious and male dogs were mostly aggressive.
Separation anxiety is more pronounced in male dogs than female ones, often resulting in the male animal's being neutered 10. Separation anxiety and noise sensitivity may affect the welfare of the dog and the stability of the human-animal bond.
The personality differences can most clearly be seen between females and intact (non-neutered) males. Males can be more dominant, territorial, and easily distracted than female dogs. On the other hand, males can also be more playful, active, and independent.
Female dogs are often said to be easier to house train than male dogs. "Many pet owners report that female dogs are easier to house train and are more attentive to their owners than male dogs, with male dogs being more aloof," Johanna Reel, registered vet technician for NHV Natural Pet, told INSIDER.
Girls mature faster
“A dog's individual temperament will be the number one component that determines the ease of training, but, in general, female puppies tend to be easier to train,” says Riley. This doesn't mean females are smarter than male dogs, it's simply a matter of maturity.
Is a Dog More Protective of Female Keepers? This isn't a general rule, but some pets are more likely to exhibit protective behavior with female keepers. This is because women generally have a softer voice and are gentler whenever they care for the dog.
There's an often-repeated belief that females mature physically and socially a little more quickly than males. So while boy dogs are still playing and messing around, girls are ready to get down to business.
One long-standing myth about dogs, is that female dogs tend to be more loyal than their male counterparts. This myth has passed down generations of dog breeders and dog lovers. And can be traced back as far as when dogs were wild and living in packs.
Male dogs are not more aggressive than females, but their competitive tendencies might bring them into conflict with their owners more, which may result in aggression if not handled properly. WILL NEUTERING MY DOG MAKE IT LESS AGRESSIVE? This really depends upon the reason that your dog is aggressive.
The dog breeds that are more likely to have this problem are the German Shepherd, Australian Shepherd, Border Collie, Jack Russell Terrier, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Bichon Frise, Toy Poodle, Labrador Retriever, Cocker Spaniel, and German Shorthaired Pointer.
Causes of Fear and Anxiety in Dogs
Being forced into an unfamiliar and frightening experience. Being deprived of social and environmental exposure until 14 weeks of age. Phobias and panic: history of not being able to escape or get away from the stimulus causing the phobia and panic, such as being locked in crate.
Most puppies start to calm down as they approach their maturity age, which is usually around 12 months, but for larger breeds it can be more likely to occur between 18 months and 2 years.
If you already have a dog, and want another, you might want to consider getting a male. What is this? Female dogs are more likely to get into fights with dogs they live with, and the injuries tend to be more severe. Having two females gives you the lowest chance of having a peaceful household.
For the trait Neuroticism, dog females' HCC increased with higher scores for Neuroticism while it decreased for males (χ2 = 21.437, P < 0.001).
Also, the nature of their personality changes quite a bit. Female dogs are generally docile and calm animals, but when they are in heat, they become much more active, sometimes aggressive and edgy.
In fact, it's natural! As social animals, dogs choose the person or people who give them plenty of love, attention, and positive experiences. Let your dog be a dog and enjoy hanging out with and being in that person's presence, whether it's you or someone else. But don't give up on being one of the favorites!
There is no significant difference between male or female dogs in terms of protective behaviors. Territorial or protective behaviors are more pronounced in unaltered dogs than in neutered dogs, and breed plays a role as well.
Compared to males, females may have more mood swings even though they can be pretty sweet most of the time. Female dogs may also have a more maternal instinct which may do better in households with children. Of course, each dog is different, and no generalizations can be really made when it comes to canine behavior.
Temperament. Generally female dogs tend to be a little more independent than males dogs and mostly aren't so demanding of attention. They love a big cuddle as much as any male dog, but they tend to take themselves away when they want a bit of down time.
Clingy due to heat
This reason for a suddenly extra clingy dog is for the females only and happens when they start to go into heat – their time of the month / leading up to the menstruation period. Female dogs will often want to be close to their owners for comfort during the stages of heat.
Scott and Fuller wrote in the 1965 Genetics and the Social Behavior of the Dog that males grow larger in early adolescence, and that sex does have an influence on “emotional reactivity,” even though the scoring between genders was very close. Females scored 5.0 on their reactivity scale and males a close 4.9.
A dog's number one priority at bedtime is comfort and security. So, if they're choosing to sleep in the same space as you, it's a big sign that they trust you. "Sleeping with the owner in the same room helps minimize fear, anxiety and stress," said Christman.
If your dog follows you everywhere then it's a sign that they trust and love you and that you make them feel safe.
Signs of a Strong Bond
There's a real light in their eyes; they smile, wag, rub into you, and makes great eye contact. When you come home, they brighten up, becomes animated, and may even vocalize their joy. Other signs of a strong bond include: Keeping tabs on your location when they are off leash.