Every dog is an individual with its own unique personality, but when it comes to comparing male and female dogs, there are some general differences worth noting. These distinctions mainly come down to hormones and reproductive systems, which can influence behaviour, temperament, and even appearance.
Let’s take a closer look at what sets male and female dogs apart and how this might affect your choice of companion.
Temperament
The best way to understand a dog’s temperament is to spend time with them. Once you’ve chosen a breed you’re interested in, meet both males and females, ideally in a home environment, as breeder dogs are often unneutered and may display stronger hormone-driven behaviours.
If you’re unsure about breed temperament, our guide on choosing the right dog breed for your lifestyle is a great starting point.
Male Dog Temperament
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Often playful, goofy, and energetic, particularly during adolescence.
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May retain “puppy-like” behaviour for longer.
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Usually affectionate and eager for attention.
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Entire males may be more likely to roam in search of females, or mark territory.
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Adolescence can bring “selective deafness,” stubbornness, or a stronger urge to explore.
A good way to channel that energy is with durable toys, such as the Strong Chew Dog Chew Toy Bundle, which keeps active boys engaged.
Female Dog Temperament
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Typically seen as more attentive, trainable, and gentle.
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Adolescence may be less rebellious compared to males.
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Sometimes more independent, though still affectionate.
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Entire females may show behavioural changes during heat cycles (seasons).
That said, neutering or spaying often smooths out many of these differences.
Behaviour
Sex can also influence behaviour patterns. Again, these are tendencies, not rules:
Behaviours Often Seen in Males:
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Marking: Urinating on objects to claim territory.
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Mounting: Not always sexual; sometimes playful or dominance-driven.
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Distractibility: Especially around other dogs or scents.
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Reactivity: More likely to challenge other entire males.
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Roaming: Entire males may try to escape in search of a mate.
If your male dog tends to wander, consider using a secure and comfortable adjustable no-pull harness to give you more control on walks.
Behaviours Often Seen in Females:
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Nurturing: Particularly if they’ve had puppies.
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Trainability: Often more focused and less easily distracted.
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Conflict Avoidance: Sometimes less likely to initiate confrontations.
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Consistency: Less likely to roam compared to males.
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Hormonal Shifts: Behaviour may change with their cycle.
Training treats like Salmon Fillets can be a great motivator when working on focus and obedience with females.
Size and Appearance
Males and females of the same breed often differ physically:
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Size: Males tend to be taller, heavier, and more muscular.
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Head Shape: Males often have larger, broader skulls.
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Features: Females may appear more refined, with narrower muzzles and lighter frames.
For larger, stronger breeds, a heavy-duty chew toy like the Strong Chew Double Action Bone is a smart investment to keep them busy and save your furniture.
Hormones
Male Dogs
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Hormone: Testosterone.
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Effects: Promotes muscle mass, larger size, and behaviours like marking, mounting, and roaming.
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Changes: Testosterone peaks in adolescence, then levels off.
Female Dogs
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Hormones: Oestrogen and progesterone.
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Effects: Regulate the heat cycle, influence maternal instincts, and can cause fluctuations in mood and behaviour.
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Changes: Cyclic, unless spayed, which halts these hormone shifts.
For more on health and hormones, see our post on neutering and spaying: pros and cons.
Anatomy and Health
Reproductive anatomy is another key consideration:
Female Dogs: Entire females come into season roughly twice a year, attracting male attention. Spaying prevents this but carries surgical risks. Unsprayed females may develop conditions like pyometra or mammary tumours.
Male Dogs: Entire males are often driven to seek out females. Neutering reduces this behaviour but also comes with risks. Unneutered males may face prostate or testicular issues.
Choosing the Right Dog for You
While male and female differences exist, the breed, upbringing, and training of your dog are far more influential than sex alone. An active breed will be energetic regardless of gender, while a calm breed will likely remain steady whether male or female.
Some tips when deciding:
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Spend time with both male and female adults of your chosen breed.
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Consider your existing pets—mixed-sex households often balance better than same-sex pairs.
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Think about your lifestyle: do you want a playful, goofy companion (often male) or a more focused, trainable dog (often female)?
Our guide to preparing for your first puppy has more advice for new owners.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to choosing between a male or female dog, remember that generalisations are just that. Hormones can shape tendencies, but personality is shaped by environment, socialisation, and training.
The most important thing is to find a dog whose individual temperament fits your lifestyle—and to build a strong, loving bond that allows them to thrive as part of your family.