O.K. Since some of us are asking favorite colors me and my girlfriend (soon to be married)are arguing over sex of my next dog. She does not want a male for reasons that she believes that he will relieve himself on furniture, and will not be as affectionate and forgiving to the children.
She beleives that a female would better for us as a family. I would like a male. I feel that a male will be a better candidate for me and the soon to be family. Would do the wise men and women of the board say? <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

What breed are we talking here?

Chris' girlfriends response,

Speaking from the woman's point of veiw, I have to say that I perfer a Lab, But in referece to the question, we were actually refering to a GSD.
I would like some kind of input to the male vs. female problem. I have always had females and Know their temperment (more docile)...please be gentile with responces.

Well lets get this out there right now. You want a working line German Shepherd dog. You will get a better, more confident and sure temperament, some drive to train with, and superior health. If you find a breeder worth anything, he/she will be able to pick a great pup for you that will not be to much to handle, but still a quality working line GSD.

<img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" /> Just do it!! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

In regards to males vs. females, that really has A LOT to do with the bloodlines. But, generally females are a little easier to live with. Males have more independance, are physically more powerful, and can be more dominate. But, I don't think as a whole females are more affectionate, better family dogs, or better with children. That is bunk.

I have had a handful of both, I have always enjoyed my males just a little bit more. They are less "one person dogs" and roam within the whole family pack more. (if that makes sense)

More will have to do with you guys and how you raise the dog, than what sex it is.

They both have some issues, but can be worked around. But GSDs as a breed are very good family dogs and are generally great pets and companions, irrelivent of sex. You just have different positives and negatives. The best working dog I had was also the best family companion we had, it was a hard headed male. He was GREAT with my children, without exception. We still miss him.

If you want a dog to work in Schutzhund or protection, get a male.

Hi Chris and Chris's GF. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> I agree with VanCamp, both sexes have their ups and downs. I prefer males, and the 'marking' isn't an issue if you raise the dog from a pup and make sure the first time it happens you let the dog know it is NOT tolerated in MY house. (not to mention, I have seen females that 'marked' too)

There are pushy females, and pushy males. There are nice femaels and nice males. There are brats in both sexes. You have to look at the temperment of the dog on the whole, and not just its undercarrige. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

Big plus to males is that they don't come into heat, but on the same token if you don't neuter and the neighbors dog comes into heat, he will be in LOVE. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" /> Nothing like GSD late night love songs. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" />