Tag: male dog

In my job, I tend to get contacted for more male behaviour problems than female.

Is this because males are more troublesome than females?

While there can be differences between male and female dogs, regarding certain hereditary traits and roles, it’s worth considering that the behaviour differences may also be because care givers have different treatment approaches for male and female dogs.

In my experience, I have noticed that caregivers often demonstrate a nurturing and empathetic approach when interacting with females, while taking a more disciplined approach when interacting with males, with an emphasis on fostering independence.

Caregivers generally approach interactions with females by using gentle stroking and being cautious about engaging in excessive play. In contrast, when interacting with males, caregivers often adopt a more hands-on approach to management, utilising rougher patting and actively participating in activities like wrestling and rough housing. Female caregivers often have a lower tolerance for biting compared to male caregivers, individual approaches to managing male and female dogs can vary based on personal preferences and experiences. It is crucial to understand that these observations should not be interpreted as stereotypes or sexism, but rather as general tendencies. 

During walks, I see handlers exhibiting a higher level of caution when it comes to approaching female socialisation as puppies, particularly when they reach sexual maturity around intact males. This caution is primarily to avoid any unintended pregnancies. As a result, females may be given more distance during their adolescent period, where anxiety and potential fear can be heightened, possibly having a positive impact on their socialisation experiences.

If play with other dogs becomes overly boisterous, caregivers often choose to move females on sooner, recognizing their discomfort. On the other hand, with males, if they display uncertainty or fear, there is often more pressure on them to continue the interaction in order to overcome their fears. Similar to the treatment of children, boys are often encouraged to exhibit traits of strength, independence, and confidence. These gender stereotypes can also influence the way dogs are perceived and treated by caregivers.

When it comes to neutering, male dogs are often neutered with the expectation that it will help address unwanted behaviors such as marking or humping, and there is a belief that it may also calm them down. It’s important to note that humping behavior is not solely driven by hormones, and it can be observed in both male and female dogs. While many females exhibit this behavior, neutering is not always the first solution that comes to mind. Humping can be a response to stress or high excitement levels in dogs of both genders. Neutering to address health problems in dog maybe a secondary consideration from a dog owners point of view. On the other hand, females are typically spayed to prevent pregnancy, certain health issues, or to manage hormonal imbalances.

Each and every dog is a unique individual with distinct needs, temperament, and preferences. It is crucial to prioritise their well-being and take into account their individuality and be careful not to manage their behaviour according to their gender. This is not intentional by any means, it’s just something to become self aware of. By approaching each dog as an individual, we can provide them with the optimal care, promoting their overall happiness and fulfillment.

If you would like to chat with me or get support with your dog or puppy book in a call with me below.