Casey Ray, a US-based dog behaviour expert and self-employed content creator, has named five breeds she says are more likely to bite.

Ray framed the list as a warning for owners rather than an indictment of the animals themselves, arguing that training, environment and human decisions shape bite risk. “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,” she said. Moreover, common reasons for dog bites across breeds often involve improper supervision, especially around children, and provocation from rough handling or inadequate training. This aligns with findings that the most common reasons for dog bites across breeds often involve improper supervision, especially around children, and provocation from rough handling or inadequate training.

Ray singled out German shepherds first, describing them as “strong, clever, self-assured, brave – and headstrong.” She said those characteristics, combined with inadequate outlets for energy or purpose, can lead to problem behaviours if owners do not provide structure. In fact, dogs that are poorly socialized or trained with harsh methods can show increased fear and aggression, further elevating the risk of bites.

Next on her list was the Jack Russell terrier, which she characterised as “small but mighty, energetic, lively, and intelligent.” Ray said intense prey drive and high energy can prompt quick snapping when those instincts are frustrated: “Intense prey drive, volcanic energy, frustration turns into quick snapping. These dogs top these lists for a reason.” This aligns with findings that inadequate training and understanding of a dog’s needs contribute significantly to bite incidents.

Ray included the Cocker spaniel, noting their usual reputation as happy and affectionate pets but linking chronic physical issues to biting risk in some cases. She warned that ongoing pain can change behaviour, saying, “Chronic ear infections equals pain-based biting. So, it’s not their fault. It’s unfortunate.” This highlights the importance of regular veterinary care, as health issues can complicate a dog’s temperament and behaviors.

Also listed was the Border collie, described as a medium-sized herding dog that is “intelligent, energetic, loyal, athletic, and tenacious.” Ray argued that without appropriate work or stimulation, the breed’s tenacity and drive can manifest as problematic reactions. Experts emphasize that a dog’s upbringing can heavily influence its interactions with people, making socialization a critical factor in preventing aggressive behaviors.

The final breed on her list was the Chihuahua, which Ray described as “among the smallest breeds, known for their assertive, lively, and devoted personalities.” She noted these dogs are often overprotected and can become fear-reactive: “Chihuahuas are overprotected with zero boundaries. They’re fear reactive, they’re easily stressed.” This overprotection can lead to a lack of confidence and increased anxiety, further compounding the risks associated with dog bites.

Across her comments, Ray returned to a single theme: human choices matter. “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,” she said, and later added, “They’re getting themselves into trouble because there’s no outlet for all that energy.” Research reviews note that there is no single, reliable percentage of dog bites that can be attributed to specific breeds in the U.S., because many incidents go unrecorded and breed identification is often uncertain or involves mixed-breed dogs.

In a further appeal to owners, Ray suggested practical changes for communities and guardians: “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].” Her remarks link questions of bite frequency to management and handling rather than inherent malice.

The discussion sits within broader public debate about how much breed alone predicts biting. Observers point to training and socialisation as central influences on behaviour; guidance on those topics is available from veterinary and behaviour resources such as Riney. Ray’s list has also circulated in online clips and commentary, including a video version of her breakdown on .

Ray’s comments are offered as professional judgement from a practising trainer and content creator rather than as the product of a new scientific study; she repeatedly framed the aim as owner education. Her list names five specific breeds and pairs each with behavioural observations rooted in experience and training practice.

For owners and communities, the immediate implication of Ray’s message is practical: attention to structure, medical care and appropriate outlets for energy can alter how individual dogs behave, regardless of breed. Ray’s comments underscore that those choices — by breeders, owners and caregivers — shape how frequently any dog may bite.

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Original reporting: view the original article.