A dog behaviour expert with more than 30 years of experience has listed five breeds he believes are overrated and “not what they seem”, including some popular favourites
A professional dog trainer has listed five breeds he considers to be the most “overrated”. Fashion, makeup, entertainment, consumer patterns and media habits all experience shifting trends over time.
Naturally, this extends to pets, where particular animals and dog breeds gain popularity and desirability, creating increased demand – and the risks of excessive breeding. While everyone has preferences regarding dog breeds, thorough research is important before bringing a dog into your household to ensure you’re capable of giving them what they need.
Enter content creator and “dog behaviour expert” Casey Ray. With more than three decades of experience under his belt, the specialist has garnered a decent social media following through his straightforward training guidance and breed analysis.
In a recent YouTube clip, he detailed a list of five breeds he considers to be most “overrated” and not “what they seem”.
5. Dalmatian
The distinctive Dalmatian, originating from the historical Croatian region of Dalmatia, is renowned for its white coat adorned with black spots. Friendly, intelligent, energetic and playful, Casey cautions their popularity may be negatively impacting the breed.
The trainer explained: “This breed has become very popular through movies – 101 Dalmatians. And when these things happen, unfortunately, the quality of what you are going to get is going to decline just because, you know, it’s backyard breeders.
“Everyone is breeding because the popularity is through the roof because these movies take off as they do.”
Casey added: “These dogs are prone to deafness, super high-strung, and they need more exercise than most families can deal with.” They also shed fur all year.
4. Chihuahua
This tiny breed ranks among the world’s smallest. Their bold, spirited and loyal personalities have made them hugely popular.
However, Casey believes they’re being “ruined” by owner behaviour. He pointed out they possess the same “pack mentality” as every other dog breed, yet much of their problematic behaviour gets inadvertently encouraged.
He said: “When you start treating chihuahua with K9 psychology instead of human psychology, you’re going to see a difference.
“Until then, they’re overrated because these are not children, they’re dogs, and we need to treat them as such.”
3. German shepherd
Casey has featured this “very popular” breed across multiple videos. Loved for their protective nature and devotion, German shepherds are powerful, clever, self-assured, brave – and headstrong.
While describing himself as a “huge German shepherd fan”, Casey expressed concern the breed “got way out of control in popularity” which has proved damaging, as overbreeding can occur and undesirable characteristics may become commonplace.
In an on-screen caption, Casey drew attention to their health problems – such as hip dysplasia – and added: “Demand has led to poor breeding and unstable temperaments.”
2. French bulldog
A small yet sturdy breed, the French bulldog’s popularity is impossible to deny.
Renowned for their playful, friendly, affectionate and spirited temperaments, this breed has won over a diverse range of dog lovers.
Casey believes this is yet another breed falling victim to excessive popularity, which has resulted in overbreeding that’s pushing the dogs further from the official breed standard.
He maintains that any credible breeder ought to “maintain the breed standard” as outlined by the American Kennel Club and other respected organisations.
The specialist also highlighted their health concerns – the breed’s distinctive flat face causes respiratory difficulties while “spinal issues and skin allergies are common”.
He also said in an on-screen textbox: “Many can’t breed or give birth naturally, raising ethical issues.”
1. Doodles
Taking the top spot, Casey named all doodle varieties. There’s an enormous array of different doodles from the cockapoo (a cocker spaniel poodle cross) to the goldendoodle (a golden retriever poodle cross) and beyond.
All these crossbreeds involve a poodle due to sought-after characteristics such as their intelligence and hypoallergenic, low-shedding coats.
Casey is a devoted admirer of the poodle and recommends people opt for a purebred poodle rather than an “overrated” doodle.
He said: “Every dog is breeding to the poodle because they like what the poodle represents. They’re just trying to offer it in different wrapping.”
The specialist then emphasised their demanding grooming needs and how some owners fail to grasp the level of commitment and dedication a doodle requires.