Rivendell Terriers
Breeders of CKC Russell Terriers & UKC Jack Russell Terriers
Choosing your pup......Male versus Female Most puppy buyers have a personal preference when making the choice between male verses a female puppy!
Many behavioral characteristics are more common in males while other
characteristics are more common in the females. Evaluating the characteristics may be helpful in determining which sex best suits your lifestyle.
The following characteristics often apply to females:
Keep in mind, these are generalizations and there are exceptions.
1) Reserved: Females take life more seriously and learn
faster, however they they tend to be busier compared to the
males.
If you notice this in the puppies, it may increase with age. Often, they
prefer and respect their special person and tolerate others.
2) Independent: Females prefer to be in control. They may
come to their owner but may leave when they have had enough attention.
3) Stubborn: A female is typically the ALPHA of their pack.
They desire to control most situations and may respond to perceived
challenges.
4) Territorial: Like males, a female (in tact or spayed) may
mark their territory.
5) Protective: Females are more protective of their home or
(from their canine perspective) their den.
6) Behavior and mood changes: Females start cycling around 6
months of age, and twice yearly thereafter. Their hormones increase during their
heat cycle and their behavior or moods may be altered. They pass a bloody
discharge and odor that attracts intact males.
The following characteristics often apply to males:
Keep in mind, these are generalizations and there are exceptions.
1) Affectionate: Male dogs are typically more affectionate
than females. They tend to crave more attention from their owners (more than the
females do) and share more affectionate behaviors with their family members.
2) Attentive: Males tend to be more focused on their human
companions, while the females tend to be a bit more independent. They are eager
to please and prefer to remain close to their special person.
3) Food Motivated: Males tend to be more food motivated
which makes training easier.
When they exhibit appropriate behaviors, it is important to reward them with
treats.
4 Exuberant: Male dogs maintain a fun loving and puppy like
exuberance throughout their life. They love to run, play, and fetch.
5 Aggressive behaviors: Intact males may display aggressive
behaviors toward other males and exhibit marking behaviors.
It is a known fact that the neutered males are more loyal, make better pets
and are easier to obedience train.
6) Protective: Males are more protective of their yard or
(from their canine perspective) their territory. Most of them like to patrol
their yards and mark the diameter with their scent.
If another dog marks something they perceive as theirs, they will mark over
it.
If you have any questions in reference to the information above;
Please feel free to contact me and I will be happy to answer your questions
and provide you with additional information.
If you already have a dog and are considering adding a new dog or
puppy to your pack:
1) If you already have a male or female, a dog of the opposite sex is
generally the best choice. Dogs of the same sex are more likely to challenge
each other, than dogs of the opposite sex.
2) If you already have a male dog, he will likely be more accepting of a
female, and you will have fewer dominance issues if you add a female to your
pack.
However if you decide to add another male to your pack, they can peacefully
co-exist with your guidance. It is important to closely monitor their
interactions from the very beginning.
Never allow aggressive behavior from either dog.
For long term peace of mind, it's highly recommended to neuter both males.
3) If you already have a female dog, she will likely be more accepting of a
male. Most males tend to be more submissive. If he does not challenge your
female, most likely she will not instigate a fight with him. Adding another
female to your pack may be more challenging (depending on their
personalities).
The toughest combination is two females because they are more likely to fight
than a male and a female or two males.
Many breeders and knowledgeable dog people own many females that coexist
together with out conflict, because we maintain the alpha position and watch for
the slightest signs of discontent.
Our females have established and accepted their pack hierarchy and we
reinforce it.
Whether you choose a male or a female, is your personal preference. The
characteristics listed above are generalizations and do not apply to every
dog.
There are many variables that modify behavior. Depending on the birth order,
many male puppies display female characteristics and many female puppies display male characteristics.
Please Take Note:
Spayed females and neutered males are less likely to exhibit the
(gender specific) behavior issues and disrupt your canine pack. Spaying and
neutering also eliminates territorial marking.