Should I Get a Male or Female Australian Shepherd Puppy? - Aussie University

Should I Get a Male or Female Australian Shepherd Puppy?

There are some big things to consider when getting an Australian Shepherd. But, the Number One question I get is “should you get a Male or Female Australian Shepherd Puppy?”
 
There are no major personality differences between male and female.  They both have great personalities to make grand companions and family members. This is an awesome breed.
 
Male or female is often a personal preference.  Male and female Australian Shepherds look a lot alike. But, there are subtle differences in their day to day interactions.   The question is: should you get a Male or Female Australian Shepherd Puppy?
 
A female tends to say “love me” and a male says “I Love you.”

The Australian Shepherd Female on Valentine's Day

Female Australian Shepherds

A Female is a bit smaller than the male. The female Australian Shepherd is usually about 18-21 inches at the shoulders and weighs between 35-50 pounds. A female does not have the density or thickness as well as the length of the coat as the male.

It is suggested that females are also more sensitive and laid back. Because of this, they are said to have an easier personality to deal with. They’ve often got their agendas and will let you know what they want.  However, because they mature faster they tend to learn as a puppy a bit faster than their male counterparts.

The females from the same litter tend to be a bit ahead of their brothers in training classes and house training as well. In a dog pack makeup, females usually rule the roast, determine the pecking order, and who competes to maintain and/or alter that order.

Females will come into season approximately every 6 months and will need to be confined for 2-3 weeks during this time. If you are not planning on breeding your female, you should consider spaying her to avoid this inconvenience and to prevent any unwanted breeding. Females tend to be more reserved or dignified as they age.

Male Australian Shepherds

The male Australian shepherds are a bit bigger than the females. The average height of the male is around 20-23 inches at the shoulders and weighs between 50-65 pounds. Males tend to be a bit more affectionate but are also more exuberant throughout life.

Aussies are very attached to their people. They are inclined to be more steadfast, reliable, and less moody. These dogs also tend to be a little more food motivated. (Though both male and female Australian Shepherds love to eat!!)

Males can be easily distracted during training, as males like to play so often. And no matter what his age, he is more likely to act silly and more puppy-like, always wanting to play games.

As with most animal species, the male Australian Shepherd is the more dramatic of the two sexes, carrying longer hair, heavier bone, and a more masculine head. Males do tend to be territorial and do not always take well to having to share their space with other male canines. Having your male neutered will make life easier for all parties concerned.

A male seems to be content to lie by your feet and simply enjoy your company. Males are fun-loving until the day they die.

The Australian Shepherd Male in his Natural Habitat

Male VS Female Australian Shepherds

As far as attitudes go both are very loving and always ready to please, just as an Australian Shepherd should be. Most of the personality differences between the two sexes are minimal or non-existent if the animals in question are spayed/neutered.

Keep an open mind when selecting a puppy, don’t let preconceived notions of its gender sway you one way or the other, doing so you may be missing out on the best companion that you could ever have!

In the end, much of a dog’s character is shaped by YOU-how you socialize your new pup and how much attention and training you give him/her. Overall, Australian Shepherds all tend to be pleasers, affectionate, and playful.

They 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 every minute of their life side by side.

 7 Fun Facts for Male and Female Australian Shepherds

  1. Your house will be accessorized-with fur. They shed twice a year, for 6 months at a time.
  2. You cannot run or walk without being ‘herded’ in the correct direction.
  3. Every new stuffed animal you bring home will be inspected (unstuffed).
  4.  Aussies can tell time and will stare a hole into you when it is time to be fed.
  5. Their cute little butts wag their whole body when they greet you.
  6. These dogs are like potato chips, you cannot have just one!
  7. They will make you the happiest pet-parent ever.

Should You Get a Male or Female Australian Shepherd Puppy? My thought is Male or female, you will not be disappointed with the breed!

Australian Shepherd Puppy
Photo by Jametlene Reskp

Erica

Hi there! My name is Erica and I am absolutely in love with Australian Shepherds. These pups have been a big part of my life for as long as I can remember, and I have learned so much about them over the years. I am now excited to share all of my knowledge and experiences with you through my writing for Aussie University. When I'm not typing away, you can find me out and about with my own Aussie crew, exploring all that nature has to offer or participating in fun dog-centered activities. I can't wait to connect with all of you fellow Aussie lovers out there!

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