Male vs. Female German Shorthaired Pointers: Which Is Right for You?

Tipsy Rabbit Tips & Pointers Blog

Affectionate, Loyal, Driven—No Wrong Choice, Just the Right Fit for You

Choosing a German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) is an exciting decision—but if you’re wondering whether a male or female is the better fit for your family, you're not alone. While every dog is an individual, there are some general differences between the sexes that might help guide your decision.

At Tipsy Rabbit, we love both our male and female GSPs—but one of the most common questions we hear is: which sex is better? While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, here’s what we’ve learned through years of hands-on experience.

Temperament: Personalities With a Twist

Males are often described as more affectionate, loyal, and eager to please. Many families report that their male GSPs are “velcro dogs,” always wanting to be close to their people.

Females tend to be a little more independent and discerning, and they can be more aloof until fully bonded with their people. Once that bond is established, though, they’re just as loyal and devoted.

These traits can vary significantly by individual pup. Early socialization and training have a far greater impact on temperament than gender alone. At The Tipsy Rabbit, we focus on nurturing each puppy with consistent handling, structure, and plenty of TLC from day one. This foundation helps shape confident, well-adjusted puppies with a strong expectation for bonding early on with their new families..

Affection, Loyalty & Family Dynamics

Both males and females are affectionate, loyal companions, but there are subtle personality differences that may influence your decision. Males tend to be a bit more eager to please and are often more visibly protective of their people, making them naturally attentive to their family’s presence and routines. They thrive on praise and are typically the first to run to your side. Females, on the other hand, are often more cautious and aware of their surroundings—they may navigate tighter spaces more carefully and are generally a bit cleaner and more graceful in the home. This natural attentiveness can make them a great fit for families with young children.

Size and Strength

Males are typically larger—usually weighing 60–70 pounds and standing a bit taller at the shoulder.

Females tend to be more compact, averaging 45–60 pounds.

If you’re looking for a slightly smaller dog or one that’s easier to travel with or lift into a vehicle, a female may suit you better. If you enjoy a dog with a bit more physicality for fieldwork or adventure sports, a male might feel like the right match.

Training and Maturity

The difference in trainability between male and female GSPs isn’t drastic, but it’s worth mentioning:

Females tend to pick up commands more quickly due to maturing faster and being slightly more focused in early training.

Males, while they may take longer to settle into maturity, are often quicker to execute commands once learned.

The female’s independent streak can mean she understands the command—but may take her time deciding when to comply.

Both sexes are highly intelligent, eager to please, and thrive with consistency, engagement, and a positive training approach.

Behavior Around the Home

Male GSPs are generally more openly affectionate and more likely to follow you from room to room.

Females may be just as loving, but more on their terms—they might take their cuddles and then go find another comfy spot to lay.

So… Which One Is Right for You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—and truthfully, you can’t go wrong with either.

Looking for a snuggly, people-pleasing companion? A male might steal your heart.  Prefer a smart, slightly more independent partner with an old soul? A female could be your perfect match.

Ultimately, the best choice comes down to your lifestyle, experience, and the specific puppy's personality.

How We Help at Tipsy Rabbit

We spend a lot of time getting to know each puppy in our litters—observing their energy levels, personalities, and learning styles. That way, we can help match you with the right puppy, not just the right gender.

Because whether you choose a male or female GSP, one thing’s for sure: you’re getting a dog that’s loyal, intelligent, and full of heart.

Want help choosing your future TopPup? Reach out to us here or submit your puppy application. We’d love to help you find your perfect match. 🫶

📸 Featured TopPups: Cheers to Adventure's The Bandit, Gin, Macallan & Fizz