Male vs Female Golden

Question
I know that this is probably one of the most frequently asked questions, but what is the difference in disposition between male and female Goldens?  I am concerned about males having the potential to be more hyper and potentially getting an alpha male.

Answer
It really doesn't make that much difference.  There is a large overlap in temperaments between the males and females.  The males may be slightly more affectionate, sometimes even being excessively needy.  As far as alpha goes, some females can be very dominant and strong willed.  Zanthe, our 7 old lab is a good example.  She may be the most difficult to manage of all of the 18 puppies we have raised for service dog schools, worse than any of the 4 males.  Although there are exceptions, likely either a male or female Golden will do very well if you spay/neuter it at 6 months.

One of the best sources for dogs with a predictable personality is the rescue dogs.  These are dogs that lost their home, but were taken into a foster home to be retrained as necessary and placed in the right home for them.  You may find a rescue near you starting at http://www.akc.org/breeds/rescue.cfm  The rescues charge a fee to help cover their expenses, but is much less than the price of a puppy plus all its medical expenses the first year.

What ever you decide, come back when you need help.