Puppy Temperament Over Puppy Gender: Why Temperament Always Wins

Ā  When families begin their journey to find the perfect puppy, one of the most common questions we hear is, ā€œShould we get a boy or a girl?ā€ As a…

Ara HugheyAra HugheyCertified Tier II Puppy Evaluator

Apr 15, 2025
A small liver chocolate Shih tzu wearing a red bow on its head and a red tulle dress, adorned with a string of white pearls around its neck, lies down against a white background.

From the Divine Pups blog

Ā 

When families begin their journey to find the perfect puppy, one of the most common questions we hear is, ā€œShould we get a boy or a girl?ā€

As a breeder, I’ve noticed a consistent trend—our female puppies are typically the first to be reserved, while our sweet, affectionate males are often overlooked. And not because they’re any less wonderful. It’s usually because of long-standing myths and surface-level preferences that have little to do with what actually makes a dog a great fit.

Let’s set the record straight:Ā gender is not a reliable indicator of behavior, compatibility, or connection. Temperament is.

Why Gender Gets More Attention Than It Deserves

In the puppy world, gender stereotypes run deep. Many people instinctively gravitate toward female puppies, often associating them with being calmer, easier to train, or more nurturing. Meanwhile, males are sometimes perceived as more dominant, stubborn, or overly energetic.

But these beliefs don’t hold up—especially when you consider one important factor:Ā most companion puppies are spayed or neutered.

Once a puppy is altered, the hormonal differences that drive many gender-based behaviors largely disappear. Marking, humping, territorial posturing—these are behaviors often tied to intact dogs, not well-raised pets living in a home environment.

Temperament Is What Truly Matters

At Divine Pups, every puppy—regardless of gender—is raised using the same advanced curriculum. We evaluate each puppy’s temperament before placement to ensure we’re matching based on lifestyle compatibility, not assumptions or appearances.

Because here’s the truth:

  • An affectionate, people-focused puppy can be male or female
  • A confident, outgoing dog can be male or female
  • A shy or independent pup can be male or female

Personality isn’t defined by gender—it’s shaped byĀ innate traits, early experiences, and thoughtful raising.Ā That’s why we place such a strong emphasis on enrichment, early exposure, and structured evaluations.

Don’t Choose a Puppy Like You’d Choose an Accessory

Another pattern we often see is families falling in love with the idea of a ā€œcute little girl in bows.ā€ And while there’s nothing wrong with wanting a picture-perfect pup, a beautiful bow can’t replace a strong bond.

When gender or appearance becomes the focus, families may overlook the very puppies that are actually the best fit for their home, energy level, and long-term goals. And in the end, it’s the connection—not the accessories—that creates that once-in-a-lifetime companionship.

Choosing with Clarity, Not Assumptions

Our goal is always the same: to help you bring home a puppy who fits seamlessly into your life. That might be a male who loves to snuggle on the couch or a female who’s ready for daily walks and weekend adventures.

We don’t guess, and we don’t generalize.
We evaluate, guide, and match with intention.

So, Should You Get a Boy or a Girl?

The real question isn’t about gender.
It’s aboutĀ temperament, lifestyle, and connection.

Let us help you find the puppy whose heart, energy, and personality align with yours—because when you get that match right, the bond is effortless… no matter what gender is on the paperwork.

Curious about how we match our puppies?
Learn more about our temperament evaluation process
Meet our available and upcoming puppies

Because your next best friend should be chosen with heart—not stereotypes.

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Ara Hughey

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Ara Hughey

Written by

Ara Hughey

Ara raises Shih Tzus in Houston, Texas, and writes about temperament, development and the small daily things that make a good match. Every puppy is born with a divine purpose.

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