A professional dog trainer has warned that five of the most popular breeds are considered “overrated” due to overbreeding, health problems and mismatched owner expectations.
A professional dog trainer has shared his list of the five most “overrated” dog breeds. Trends come and go in all aspects of life, from fashion and beauty to entertainment, shopping habits, and media consumption.
This also applies to pets, where certain animals and dog breeds become more popular and trendy, leading to increased demand – and the risk of over-breeding. Everyone has their favourite dog breeds, but it’s essential to do your research before deciding to bring a dog into your home to ensure you can meet its needs.
Enter content creator and “dog behaviour expert” Casey Ray.
With over 30 years of experience with dogs, the specialist has gained a following on social media thanks to his candid approach to training advice and breed knowledge.
In a recent YouTube video, he unveiled a list of five breeds he deems “overrated”, reports the Mirror.
5. Dalmatian
The instantly recognisable Dalmatian, which originated in the historical region of Dalmatia in Croatia, is known for its white coat and black spots. They’re friendly, intelligent, energetic and playful, but Casey warns that their popularity could be negatively impacting the breed.
The coach stated: “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 continued: “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 petite breed is among the smallest in the world. They’re cherished for their bold, spirited and loyal temperaments.
However, Casey argued they’re being “ruined” by how most owners treat them. He emphasised that they retain the same “pack mentality” as every other dog breed, yet much of their problematic behaviour gets encouraged.
He explained: “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. Known for their guarding instincts and loyalty, German shepherds are powerful, intelligent, confident, courageous – and stubborn.
Despite being a “huge German shepherd fan”, Casey lamented that the breed has “got way out of control in popularity” which has proved damaging as they risk being overbred with undesirable traits becoming more common.
In a text box shown on screen, Casey highlighted their health problems – such as hip dysplasia – and noted: “Demand has led to poor breeding and unstable temperaments.”
2. French bulldog
The French bulldog, a compact yet robust breed, is undeniably in high demand. Recognised for their playful, friendly, affectionate and spirited temperaments, the breed appeals to a wide range of owners.
Casey suggests this is another breed experiencing the consequences of excessive popularity, which is resulting in overbreeding that distances the dog from the breed standard.
He maintains that any credible breeder should aim to “maintain the breed standard” as outlined by the American Kennel Club and other respected organisations.
The expert also highlighted their health concerns in a text box displayed on screen – the dog’s characteristic flat face causes respiratory difficulties whilst “spinal issues and skin allergies are common”.
He also noted: “Many can’t breed or give birth naturally, raising ethical issues.”
1. Doodles
In first position, Casey placed all doodle breeds. There’s an extensive variety of different doodles from the cockapoo (a cocker spaniel poodle cross) to the goldendoodle (a golden retriever poodle cross) and beyond.
All of these breeds are crossed with a poodle for their appealing characteristics, such as their intelligence and hypoallergenic, non-shedding coats.
Casey is a strong advocate of the poodle and recommends people acquire 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 expert then emphasised their high grooming needs and how some owners underestimate the amount of work and effort a doodle requires.