Females or males?

I often get asked which is the better sex to own.  The answer is both. 

Males and females from the same litter have about a 5 pound difference on average assuming mom and dad are in standard and about the same size.  Many factors go into the equation.  Males are usually a bit larger than females.

With genetics… a large male and a small female does not produce a bunch of mediums.  You get some like mom and some like dad and maybe a medium sized pup.  This is why you must look at the size of the parents to get an idea of what you may get.

Paw size is not a golden standard to judge how big a pup will be when looking at them at 8 weeks of age.  I typically look at multiple factors such as overall size, bone structure, paw size, head, etc.  There’s never a guarantee as to how big they will be.  If the litter is a repeat, then you have a good idea of what will be produced.

The ‘knock’ on males by families is that when he matures he will want to mark things (hiking his leg and urinating on furniture).  I will not disagree that he will try however, if potty trained properly, you can nip that in the bud right away.  I have had multiple intact males in my house over the years.  It takes diligence.  The cure is to neuter early but I don’t like that idea as there are studies that show that they don’t fill out as they would if there were intact until age 2 years.

The plus on males is that they are bigger stronger more athletic looking (generally speaking as there are female national champions!).

The knock on females is that you have to deal with her coming into season unless you spay.

The ‘plus’ on females is that they are a bit smaller and dainty looking when they squat to pee.  Ok, you got me on that but other than that there is no difference.  With intact females you have heat cycles to deal with.  With males, you have roaming to breed as well as potential aggresiveness around other intact males.

So imho, there is no difference.  Get the pup that makes you feel good.  Remember, it’s pick the litter not pick of the litter.

Dave

P.S. take a kid huntin’!