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Male or Female?
Many people ask me which do I prefer, male or female. It is hard for me to say that I prefer either over the other because all of my dogs are so special to me, each in their own way. I can however tell you this, my males are more easy going than my females. They are more laid back and seem to be somewhat less exuberant than my females. And, my females are always ready to do whatever. They are very much outgoing. I think that the gender of the dog does give it some traits that are more easily seen. However, if you bring your dog to obedience training it is easier to work out or correct some of their less desirable actions. To me this is key. Many people believe that females do not exert dominance. I can tell you from personal experience that this is not true. In fact, females are more likely to be independent, stubborn, and territorial than males. Females are also more intent upon exercising their dominance by participating in alpha behaviors. Thus, most fights break out between two females. On the other hand males are more likely to be affectionate, attentive and more demanding of attention. They also tend to be less moody, which in my book is a big plus. However, boys will be boys, and it is more than likely that your Boxer boy no matter how old he is will probably act silly and want to play games. Females tend to become more reserved and dignified as they age. When you want to be affectionate, of course your Boxer girl will want you to, but when she has enough she will let you know by moving away. Males on the other hand seem to never get enough affection or attention. They are almost always at arms length. Training a female seems to be easier than training a male. Not because she is smarter than him but because she is usually less distracted and wants to do what you want her to so she can get back to what she wants to do. In other words, she wants to get it over with!! Males that are neutered rarely exhibit secondary sexual behavior such as marking and lifting of legs. If you neuter early (by 5 or 6 months of age) chances are they will never lift their leg to potty. Females that are not spayed will have a heat cycle, usually twice a year. During this time, you may notice that she is moodier than usual. If you are not looking to breed, then the best thing you can do for her is have her spayed, by six months of age. This will prevent her from ever having a heat cycle. Great news for all involved. I did not write this with any intent of discouraging anyone from buying a female or male. I wrote this because I thought that I could maybe help you understand the differences I notice in them. It is your choice whether you want a charming Boxer girl, or a sweet Boxer boy. But to be a responsible pet owner, you must do your research. Learn about alpha behavior and the pecking order. You won't regret it. I personally believe you can never do enough research, and when it comes to adopting a life-long companion, it is especially true. -- Donna Walker
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