MALE or FEMALE, that is the question......

Many people believe that female dogs make better pets.  Most inquiries for pet dogs are from people wanting a 'sweet girl'.  They think females don't display alpha behaviors like 'marking' and/or 'riding' other dogs.  They believe that females are more docile and attentive and do not participate in fighting over dominance.  

Well folks, that is NOT true.

What is true is that spaying and neutering your new pup will minimize any vast differences in behavior or gender characteristics.  

In an unaltered, intact male or female there will always be slight differences.  Here is a breakdown of possible characteristics that are more prevalent in a male or a female:
 
In the dog pack makeup, females usually rule the roost, determine the pecking order, and who competes to maintain and/or alter that order.    The females are, as a result, more independent, stubborn, and territorial than their male counterparts.  The females are much more intent upon exercising their dominance by participating in alpha behaviors such as 'riding' other dogs.  Most fights will usually break out between 2 females.  These characteristics, however, are vastly minimized by spaying.

Males, on the other hand, are usually more affectionate, exuberant, attentive, and more demanding of your attention.  They are very
attached to their people.  They also tend to be more steadfast, reliable, and less moody.   Most boys are easily motivated by food and praise, and so eager to please that training is easy.  However, males can be easily distracted during training, as males like to play so often.  And no matter what age, he is more likely to act silly and more puppy-like, always wanting to play games.  Boys are fun loving until the day they die.  Females tend to be more reserved or dignified as they age.  Think of the human equivalent of the twinkling eyed
Grandpa still playing catch with the grandchildren, at age 70 while Grandma quietly observes from the porch.

Neutered males rarely exhibit secondary sexual behavior such as 'riding' or 'marking' and lifting of the legs.  Once the testosterone levels recede after neutering, most of these behaviors (if they ever existed) will disappear. 

In the end, much of a dog's character and personality is shaped by YOU - how Golden Retrievers all tend to be pleasers, affectionate and playful.  Golden Retrievers are one of those rare breeds of dogs who truly seem that they can read your mind.  All they want to do is be around you and enjoy life side by side.  

Here at Radiant Goldens, we have had the privilege of having three golden males in our lives.  These three males were just as calm and , sweet as our girls, if not more.  So, whether you decide on a male or female, you will not be disappointed with this breed.  They are an amazing breed and have ranked for years as one of the top three most popular dogs by the AKC!!