Black Dog Syndrome

Black Dog Syndrome



Black dogs are usually the last to be adopted in shelters. Though there aren't any statistics to prove it, shelter and rescues workers across the country have all seen Black Dog Syndrome first hand. These dogs linger the longest in shelters. They are passed up continuously for lighter colored canines. Large black dogs like Labrador Retrievers are often casualties in an overcrowded shelter system. While there is no clear reason as to why, there are many suspected causes. Dark coated dogs can be harder to see, and connect with, in a poorly lit kennel run. Their black coats can also make them difficult for amateur photographers to photograph. Since many people are going online to adopt pets these days, this can hamper their chance of being adopted as well. Some people are superstitious and feel that black dogs are bad luck. Others feel that they appear more menacing. Whatever the reason, shelters and rescues are doing what they can to combat this syndrome and give these wonderful dogs a home. Tying colorful bandanas around the neck of a dark dog or placing brightly colored toys and blankets in their runs are helping to catch the eye of potential adopters. Moving a dog into the front office of the shelter where there is more foot traffic can help as well. If potential adopters can see the dog outside their kennel run, calmly interacting with people, it can attract their attention. A few shelters have even resorted to offering black dogs at a lower adoption fee for a month in an attempt to get them homes. They are working to educate the public, assuring them that color has no bearing on temperament in any breed. Staff encourage adopters to not overlook their black dogs because they are every bit as wonderful as the other dogs in the shelter. Regardless of color, they make loving, faithful companions.