Hey! I honestly can't tell you whether males or females are better. Sorry, I've only had one guinea pig. But, IMO, getting a young one is a good idea. They are so timid, it's nice to be able to get them used to being handled at a young age. Mine was Angus, he was all black. He was about five when he died. It was so hard, too. I loved him so much. He went with me from Washington to Virginia to Texas. They make great pets, they are so cuddly and funny. Post photos when you can!