A leading dog behaviour expert has issued a stark warning to prospective pet owners, naming five of the UK's most popular dog breeds as 'overrated'. Casey Ray, a professional dog trainer with over three decades of experience, cautions that trends driven by films and social media are leading to overbreeding and a host of serious health and behavioural problems in these sought-after dogs.
The Five Breeds Deemed 'Overrated' By An Expert
In a candid YouTube video that has sparked discussion among dog lovers, Casey Ray highlighted the downsides of choosing a breed based purely on popularity. He argues that surging demand often results in irresponsible breeding practices, which can compromise the health, temperament, and welfare of the animals.
5. The Dalmatian: High-Strung and Prone to Deafness
Instantly recognisable from films like 101 Dalmatians, the Dalmatian's iconic spotted coat has made it a perennial favourite. However, Casey warns that this cinematic fame has been detrimental. 'Backyard breeders' capitalise on the popularity, often leading to a decline in breed quality. These dogs are prone to deafness, are super high-strung, and require more exercise than most families can provide, on top of shedding fur all year round.
4. The Chihuahua: A Dog Treated Like a Child
The petite Chihuahua is cherished for its bold and loyal spirit, but Casey believes the breed is being 'ruined' by how owners treat them. The core issue, he states, is applying human psychology instead of canine psychology. They retain the same 'pack mentality' as larger breeds, but their problematic behaviours are often encouraged. 'Until we treat them as dogs, not children, they're overrated,' he explains.
3. The German Shepherd: Popularity Leading to Instability
Despite being a self-professed 'huge German Shepherd fan', Casey laments that the breed's immense popularity has 'got way out of control'. This has led to damaging overbreeding, where undesirable traits and health problems like hip dysplasia are becoming more common. He notes that high demand has resulted in 'poor breeding and unstable temperaments', moving the breed away from its reliable working standard.
2. The French Bulldog: Ethical and Health Concerns
The French Bulldog's playful and affectionate nature has made it one of the most in-demand breeds. Yet, this compact dog faces significant welfare challenges due to its physical structure. Casey highlights their characteristic flat face, which causes severe respiratory difficulties. Spinal issues and skin allergies are also common. Most critically, he points out that many cannot breed or give birth naturally, raising serious ethical questions about their propagation.
1. All Doodle Breeds: The 'Overrated' Crossbreed
Topping the list is not a single breed, but an entire category: doodles. This includes crosses like the Cockapoo and Goldendoodle, bred with poodles for their intelligence and hypoallergenic coats. Casey is a strong advocate for the purebred poodle and suggests people get one instead of an 'overrated' doodle. 'They're just trying to offer [poodle traits] in different wrapping,' he says. He also warns that many owners drastically underestimate their high grooming needs and the work required.
Key Takeaways for Potential Dog Owners
Casey Ray's central message is a crucial one for anyone considering bringing a dog into their home: do thorough research beyond a breed's trendy image. Understand the genetic health risks, the true exercise and grooming requirements, and the breed's inherent temperament. Choosing a dog should be about matching a lifestyle to a breed's needs, not following a fleeting trend that can perpetuate overbreeding and animal suffering. His advice underscores the importance of seeking out responsible, ethical breeders who prioritise health and temperament over profit.
