Introduction
Many dog owners consider adding a second dog to their family. When doing so, one of the key decisions is whether to get another dog of the same gender or the opposite gender. This choice can significantly impact the dogs’ ability to get along and coexist peacefully. Understanding the potential benefits and drawbacks of same-sex and opposite-sex pairings can help owners make the best choice for their particular situation.
This is an important consideration because introducing a new dog into a household requires careful planning and management. Owners want to set their dogs up for success by minimizing conflict and tension. The dogs’ genders can play a role, since dogs interact differently with their own sex versus the opposite sex. Examining the nuances around this topic provides valuable insights for two-dog households.
Historical Preferences
The history of pairing dogs by gender shows some interesting trends. In early human history when dogs were first domesticated, dogs often roamed and bred freely in human settlements. People did not actively manage dog breeding or attempt to pair dogs by gender (cite).
As dogs became more integrated into human families over thousands of years, preferences emerged for opposite-sex pairings that could produce puppies. Female dogs were seen as caring mothers, while male dogs were valued as protectors and hunters. Pairing opposite sexes was thought to bring balance and the ability to continue breeding dogs (cite).
In more modern times, spaying and neutering dogs has become commonplace. With reproduction controlled, the focus has shifted more to pairing dogs by personality and energy levels versus gender. Still many people default to getting one male and one female dog out of tradition.
Benefits of Same-Sex Pairings
One of the major benefits of having two dogs of the same sex is that it can reduce conflict over mates. With both dogs being the same gender, competition for mating is eliminated. This is especially relevant for two unaltered dogs, as mating behaviors and aggression can become serious issues.
According to one source, “Living with another dog of the same sex can impair a dog’s working ability, which is why many dog professionals (breeders, trainers, handlers) don’t keep their working dogs of the same sex together” (https://www.quakershillvethospital.com.au/dogs/adding-a-second-dog-to-your-family/).
Having two dogs of the same gender can also allow for easier bonding between the pair. They are more likely to view each other as companions rather than competition. This is especially true if the dogs are introduced at a young age.
Benefits of Opposite-Sex Pairings
Many dog experts recommend getting a male and female dog as a pair over two dogs of the same sex. There are some key benefits to having an opposite-sex pairing:
Natural socialization – In general, male and female dogs tend to get along better than same-sex pairings. Males and females have distinct social hierarchies and communication styles, allowing them to coexist more peacefully. This provides a more natural social dynamic. (Source)
Affectionate bonds – Opposite-sex pairs are more likely to form close, affectionate bonds as companions. They provide each other balance and often showcase protective, nurturing behaviors. (Source)
Having a male and female pairing sets up optimal conditions for dogs to get along. Their distinct social styles allow them to live together harmoniously and often form special bonds.
Breed Tendencies
Certain dog breeds are more likely to accept and tolerate same-sex pairings and get along well with dogs of the same gender. Breeds like Retrievers, Spaniels, Poodles, and many companion and toy breeds tend to be easygoing and sociable with all dogs. Herding breeds like Collies and Shepherds also tend to thrive in same-sex pairs or groups, bonding closely with their canine packmates. On the other hand, some breeds are known for having higher levels of same-sex aggression. These include many terriers, hounds, and working dogs who can be more territorial, protective, and competitive. For example, Airedales, American Staffordshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, Dalmatians, and Siberian Huskies have reputations for intolerance toward dogs of the same gender [1]. However, even within these breeds, individual differences matter more than breed tendencies.
In general, opposite-sex pairings may be easier for breeds prone to same-sex aggression. But spaying/neutering can greatly reduce those tendencies. With early socialization and proper training, even breeds with same-sex reputations can live peacefully with dogs of the same gender. The individual dog’s personality makes the most difference in compatibility.
Spaying/Neutering Impact
Spaying or neutering dogs can have an impact on how they interact with intact dogs of the same sex. According to one study, spayed female dogs tend to show more aggression towards other intact females compared to unspayed females (https://www.naiaonline.org/uploads/WhitePapers/EarlySNAndBehaviorDuffySerpell.pdf). The reason is thought to be due to the reduced estrogen levels after spaying, which can make female dogs feel more vulnerable or defensive around intact females.
Similarly, neutered males may feel more threatened by the presence of intact males, due to their decreased testosterone levels after neutering. Intact males still have high testosterone, which can make them more confident, dominant and territorial. This can lead to clashes with neutered males who have had their hormonal drives reduced.
These hormonal changes don’t necessarily mean spayed/neutered dogs can’t get along with intact dogs of the same sex. But owners should be aware of the potential for increased tension or reactivity after sterilization procedures. Proper socialization and training is important for all dogs to learn tolerance and appropriate social skills when interacting with other dogs. Consulting with your veterinarian on when to spay/neuter may also help minimize behavior changes.
Individual Dog Personalities
Some dogs are more accepting of same-sex pairings based on their individual personality traits. According to Pedigree, male dogs tend to be more dominant, territorial, and easily distracted, while females tend to be more reserved, poised, and independent [1]. However, these are broad generalizations, and each dog has a unique personality.
An outgoing, playful male may do great with another male companion that matches his energy level and play style. Meanwhile, a more reserved or dominant male may prefer having a female companion that gives him his own space. The key is understanding your existing dog’s personality and finding another dog that complements it.
Experts recommend having potential companion dogs meet on neutral territory first to gauge their reactions and compatibility before deciding. Look for signs of playful body language versus territorial behavior or tension. This can help determine if two dogs will get along well as a same-sex pairing.
Multi-Dog Households
When adding a third or more dog to an existing same-sex pair, there are some important considerations. Some experts recommend choosing a dog of the opposite sex to help reduce same-sex aggression that can arise when multiple dogs of the same gender live together.
For example, if you already have two female dogs, some trainers advise adding a male dog as the third dog. The male energy can help balance out the female pack dynamic. According to one source, “Two boys and a girl works well also. The boys see the girl as their sister so are less likely to fight.” (https://www.quakershillvethospital.com.au/dogs/adding-a-second-dog-to-your-family/)
However, others note that individual personalities and training are more important than gender when adding a third dog. With proper introduction, supervision, and training, dogs of the same sex can coexist peacefully. Key factors are taking it slow, providing individual attention to each dog, and being alert to any signs of tension or resource guarding.
Regardless of gender, it’s ideal to choose a dog with an energy level and temperament that meshes well with the existing pair. Taking the dogs’ preferences and history into account can lead to the best multi-dog household fit.
Owner Experiences
Many owners have shared their experiences and anecdotes about how their same-sex dog pairs get along. On Reddit, one owner described their success with two female dogs: “I have two female dogs, a husky mix and a cattle dog mix. They get along great and play all the time. The key was that we got our husky as a puppy and she grew up with our cattle dog.”
Another Reddit user commented that their two female dogs took some time to warm up to each other but eventually became very close companions: “It took about 3 months for my resident female dog to fully accept the new female puppy. There was some initial grumbling and jealousy. Now they are super bonded and playful with each other all the time. It just took some patience.”
According to an article on DogsBestLife.com, some owners have noticed less tension and aggression in same-sex pairings: “Many owners say that two males or two females tend to have less dominance issues than a mixed pair.” However, individual personalities play a big role as well.
While there can be challenges, many owners of same-sex dogs report success and loving bonds if the dogs are properly introduced and any inicial conflicts resolved through training and patience.
Conclusion
In summary, there are pros and cons to having dogs of the same gender and dogs of opposite genders. Some key considerations include:
- Dogs of opposite genders may have less likelihood of same-sex aggression or competition. However, spaying/neutering can reduce this risk.
- Many experts recommend starting with opposite sex pairings for easiest compatibility. However, individual personalities matter most.
- Some breeds like Chihuahuas tend to do better with same sex pairings. Individual preferences vary.
- Having more than 2 dogs adds complexity. Consider both gender and breed differences to prevent excessive dominance issues.
- Multi-dog households require proper training and socialization to ensure peaceful coexistence.
Overall, there is no definitive rule on whether dogs do better with same or opposite sex pairings. The individual temperaments, training, and personality of each dog are most important for compatibility. For two dogs, an opposite sex pairing may be easiest as a starting point. But same sex pairings can work well too with proper precautions. The key is assessing each unique situation and evaluating the individual dogs involved.