While growing up we only had dogs (only one at a time) and they were ok and being able to play fetch was always fun, they always seemed rather needy...even if not their fault. You've got to adapt your schedule to let the dog out and such...so much easier with cats in my opinion. They just do their own thing, clean the box on my time, no bathing them. I'll admit I'm biased though.
I tried looking around for why male cats might have better temperament but nothing really came up for me on a quick search. I've met some personally that while still sweet, buck that trend.
It had to be interesting having 10 cats in the house...only so much attention to give. The most I've ever lived with is two.
Most of our family has dogs, and they are a huge inconvenience for them. They either can't come to family gatherings because they can't find dog care, or they only show up for a few hours and then go back home because the dog needs let out, and then we don't see them for several months. I don't understand why having a dog is so great if you can't even make it to Christmas and other holidays with the family.