Dog behaviour expert Casey Ray has identified five breeds that, he says, show the most consistent bite histories — and he warned that those statistics often reflect human choices, not inherent canine malice.

Ray, a United States–based YouTube content creator, laid out his list and the reasoning behind it in a video aimed at . He argued that training, environment, health and how people treat dogs explain many of the incidents that end up in bite reports. In fact, multiple studies have found that owner behavior, training and socialization, supervision, and living conditions play critical roles in bite risk beyond just breed tendencies.

In the video, Ray names the five breeds he says appear frequently in bite histories: German shepherd, Jack Russell terrier, Cocker spaniel, Border collie and Chihuahua. He described each breed’s working traits and how those traits can be mismanaged in typical pet homes. CDC materials estimate that roughly 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs in the U.S. each year, but detailed year‑by‑year public data on trends in nonfatal bites are limited; these estimates highlight the ongoing importance of understanding bite risk and prevention.

German shepherds, Ray noted, combine strength and intelligence with a protective drive; his description calls them “very popular breed[s] recognized for [their] protective nature and unwavering loyalty.” He claims that German shepherds often appear near the top of various bite-statistics lists, which he attributes partly to their popularity and working roles. Owners are strongly encouraged to socialize dogs positively early on, as well-socialized dogs are significantly less likely to bite.

Ray described Jack Russell terriers as energetic and fearless, saying their “volcanic energy and intense prey drive” can lead to problems where outlets for that drive are lacking. He contrasted that working-dog intensity with the realities of many family homes, where sufficient exercise and stimulation may not be provided.

On Cocker spaniels, Ray pointed to health as a factor. “Chronic ear infections equals pain-based biting. So, it’s not their fault. It’s unfortunate,” he said, linking some reported bites to underlying medical issues rather than temperament alone, a reminder that dogs may react aggressively when in discomfort.

He described Border collies as medium-sized herding dogs with high drive and tenacity, traits that can manifest as herding or nipping behaviours if not channeled through training and activity. For Chihuahuas, Ray highlighted how human behaviour around small dogs affects outcomes: “If people would just put these dogs on the ground, enrol them into some training, treat them like a dog, they’re a phenomenal breed, but until that happens, they have the highest bite rate per capita [in the US].” This emphasizes the need for consistent and respectful treatment of all breeds, regardless of size.

Ray framed the list not as an attempt to stigmatise breeds but to shift responsibility to owners. “Today I’m breaking down five breeds that might surprise you – not to shame them, but to help owners understand how environment, structure, genetics, and training all play into a dog’s behaviour,” he said. “It’s none of these breeds’ fault. They’re landing on these lists for reasons that are usually man-made, unfortunately, so let’s not blame the breed.” The video builds its case by pairing breed descriptions with behavioural explanations and occasional health connections, affirming that effective management and training are vital to reducing bite incidents.

Ray’s analysis appears alongside broader conversations about canine behaviour and bite prevention; material aimed at owners and trainers stresses the role of socialisation, structured activity, and addressing medical conditions to reduce risk. For viewers who want to see Ray’s full presentation, the video is available on YouTube: Top 5 Dog Breeds That Bite!. Additional context about owner-related risk factors can be found via resources such as Dogsense.

Where the conversation goes next depends on those points in homes and communities. Ray’s message centres on practical changes: treating dogs as animals with needs for training, structure, and medical care rather than as accessories or permanent infants. The responsibility lies in the hands of dog owners to implement training and socialization to prevent risk, ensuring their pets understand how to behave in a variety of situations.

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Original reporting: view the original article.