How To Tell If A Puppy Is Male Or Female

Puppies are some of the most beloved animals on the planet. They bring joy and companionship to families all over the world. But before you can bring one home, you need to figure out whether it’s a male or female. Knowing the sex of your puppy is important in order to give them the proper care they need. Read on to learn how to tell if a puppy is male or female.

Check For External Anatomy

The most obvious way to determine the gender of a puppy is to look at their external anatomy. This can be done by gently feeling for the puppy's genitals. In male puppies, you’ll be able to feel two penis testicles near the base of the tail. Female puppies will have an opening for their vagina located further back on their body. It’s important to be very gentle when checking these areas, as the puppy may not be used to being handled.

Behavioral Differences

There may also be subtle behavioral differences between male and female puppies. Typically, male puppies will exhibit more dominant behaviors such as peeing on objects to mark their territory. Female puppies tend to be more passive and affectionate. Male puppies may also engage in more roughhousing than their female counterparts. These behavioral differences are not always reliable, however, so it's best to rely on physical characteristics to determine gender.

DNA Testing

If you’re still unsure about the gender of your puppy, you can always have a DNA test done. This can be done at a veterinarian's office and will cost around $100-$200. During the test, a veterinarian will take a swab from the inside of the puppy's mouth. The swab will then be sent off to a laboratory for testing. Results usually come back within a few weeks and will definitively tell you the puppy’s gender.

Conclusion

Knowing the gender of your puppy is important for providing proper care. The best way to tell if a puppy is male or female is by looking at the external anatomy. Male puppies will have two testicles near the base of the tail while females have an opening for their vagina further back. If you’re still unsure, you can always have a DNA test done at a veterinarian's office. By using these methods, you’ll be able to determine the gender of your puppy once and for all.

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